Institute of Art Design + Technology
Dún Laoghaire

Aisling Wallace 

Design for Stage + Screen

Aisling has a keen interest in film, theatre and peformance. Specialising in costume design and fabrication, Aisling has developed a keen eye for detail and a love for storytelling and characterisation through garments. In addition to Aislings's love for costume making, she has recently gained an interest in puppetry and enjoys bringing small characters to life—an art form that intersects with theater and visual storytelling. She experiments with different materials and techniques to imbue her puppets with unique personalities With a commitment to the arts Aisling continues to explore new avenues in costume design and puppetry.

The Salmon of Knowledge

In the mystical realm of ancient Ireland, the tale of the Salmon of Knowledge unfolds. This enchanting story follows the journey of a young boy named Fionn as he navigates the wonders and challenges of his coming-of-age before he is gifted the wisdom of the salmon. This version is a prequel to Fionns famous story and is not tethered to a specific period in history. Rather it draws inspiration from Celtic and medieval aesthetics to encapsulate the essence of Irish mythology.
Aisling designed and created the costume for the hero of the story Fionn MacCumhaill. Incorporating elements of Celtic clothing such as léine sleeves, hand made brat cloaks as well as embroidery and hand finished hems.



The Takarazuka Revue: Creating the perfect ‘man’

The Takarazuka revue is a renowned all-female Japanese theatre troupe, which has gained a predominantly female and queer following not only in Japan, but across the globe. She focuses on the otokoyaku which are male role specialists. Aisling's thesis delves into the intriguing relationship between theatrical makeup, costume design, and the designers effect an otokoyakus' performance.
The thesis investigates how specific elements of makeup application, as well as Silhouettes and fabric choices for costumes contribute to the transformation of female actors into convincing male characters on stage. By analysing the techniques employed by the Takarazuka Revue, including the evolution of their traditions and artistic choices rooted in both cultural and contemporary contexts, this research uncovers the nuances of gender performance and the construction of masculinity within the context of modern Japanese theatre through a western lens. Through an interdisciplinary approach that blends theatre studies, gender theory, and cultural analysis, this research offers a comprehensive examination of the otokoyaku's charm