Ada & The Engine
BY LAUREN GUNDERSON
STAGE WEST THEATRE, SPRING 2020
Ada and the Engine tells the story of Ada Byron Lovelace and her struggles with her mathematical genius, her mother’s expectations, her father’s reputation, and her relationship to inventor and mentor Charles Babbage. Lyrical and light, we wanted to use the costumes to ground us in 1830s England.
Director: Emily Scott Banks
Costume Design: Becca Janney Scenic Design: Michael Sullivan Lighting Design: Adam Chamberlain Sound Design: David Lanza Projection Design: Tristan Decker
Photos: Edited by Evan Michael Woods
Reviews
“The costumes for Ada and the Engine were delightful. Ada's purple frock and hoop skirt were flattering and eye-catching, and made this bold character all the more fabulous. Babbage's brown suit, vest, and Victorian coat were well-tailored and gave him the look of a mature, dapper scholar. Lovelace's suit was fitting for that of a young aristocrat, and Annabella's high-necked, baby blue getup was perfect for this severe character.... The hairstyles of the women were intricate, tasteful, and appropriate for the time period. Finally, Lord Byron’s elaborate turban in the final scene was a regal red and gold ensemble, giving this storied character a truly magnificent presence.”
Kathleen Anwar, Broadway World Dallas
[About Lord Byron] “…the apogee of Becca Janney’s fine array of period duds”.
Jan Farrington, TheatreJones