In 1997 Charles and Patricia Lester were approached by director Michael Volpe and invited to create the costumes and set textiles for Opera Holland Park’s production of “Iris” by Mascagni. So began their venture into theatrical productions which often involved around 200 complete costumes for each production, dressing all the principal characters and 40 members of the chorus. A huge undertaking but an immensely satisfying endeavour that left them with some amazing memories. Bringing their wearable art to life through performance accompanied by stunningly beautiful music is always an immensely powerful experience.

Productions include

Iris – Opera Holland Park – 1997
Iris – Opera Holland Park – 1998 (first ever repeat performance by popular request)
Iris – Alice Tulley Hall, Lincoln Centre New York – concert performance November 1998 for Teatro Grattacielo. The opera was performed to celebrate its 100th anniversary
Pearl Fishers – Opera Holland Park – 2002
Norma – Opera Holland Park – 2004
Cendrillon – London and Nottingham with Tom Hawkes
Viva La Mama – London and Nottingham with Tom Hawkes

Iris

Pearl Fishers

Norma