Institute of Art Design + Technology
Dún Laoghaire
On Show 2020
Rosah Mangan

The main idea behind my project, “The Death of Cúchulain” by W. B. Yeats, was to involve family audiences and bring their theatre experience outdoors. Engaging with the Burren landscape in Co. Clare, to unfold the tale of an Irish Mythological Hero. The performance is located at Poulnabrone portal dolmen in the heart of the Burren. To add an educational value, the audience is lead to the stage by a guide, who reads the information stands about the sites historical context.

The costumes were designed from a combination of influences: Firstly, Macnas, a Galway based street performance company known for their parades of colour and spectacle. Secondly, Michelle Carriger who was the professional embroiderer on Game of Thrones. Lastly the landscape itself, the colours and growth found in the Burren crevasses can be seen woven throughout the costumes.

For this exhibition, I have concentrated on one character, Aoife. She had a son with Cúchulain, he mistakingly killed his son in battle, so Aoife returns to kill Cúchulain in revenge. These images will show the development of her character from sketches to design to the costume toile.