Costuming Urinetown was challenging but also very enjoyable because of the stark difference between the two sets of characters. It was fun to have two completely different color and texture pallets for the rich and the poor. I mostly thrifted the pieces, then distressed and tailored them. I was inspired by 1940s and 50s fashion.
Even though the main protagonists are from two different social classes I wanted them to have a similar classic theme. For Bobby, I used a vintage newsboy cap and suspenders. I gave Hope a classy pink dress to show her status and innocence.
Since Penny worked at a toilet facility I wanted her to look dingy, but still work ready. I gave her blue coveralls to show her elevated status among the poor, but that she is still below the rich.
Cladwell is the main antagonist, so I wanted him to look as lofty and rich as possible to contrast with the poor. I used a three piece suit with a rich dark blue shirt and a gold tie.
The Poor
The poor costumes were very fun to put together. I stuck to yellows, beiges, browns, oranges, and greens. I thrifted the pieces then distressed them by ripping them up and sewing on patches. I also made the clothes look dirty by rubbing them with coffee grounds and makeup.
Urine Good Company & Cops
For the Urine Good Company employees, I used dark blues, greens, and reds to contrast the browns of the poor. I found 1940's and 50's inspired dresses and added different belts and headpieces to show their elevated status. I chose British Bobby costumes for the cops to continue with the vintage theme.