So much rides on the shoulders of costume designers. Actors have to look the part, dancers have to be able to move freely, the outfits have to look authentic for the period - and all the time they're taking a hammering every night!
Elizabeth Whiting has been one of this country's most experienced stage costume designers for the stage since 1984. And her commitment to her craft has been recognised as one of the inaugural Out of the Limelight Theatre Award winners.
Elizabeth designs for everyone - the Royal Ballet, NZ Opera, Auckland Theatre companies, as well as Black Grace and the World of Wearable Art spectacular. Lynn Freeman talks with her - first about costumes specifically designed for the theatre.
