Elton John's iconic songbook is celebrated and embraced in the dazzling 'Your Song', presented by The Little Red Company at Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
Elton's expansive career is undeniably unforgettable and groundbreaking. In 'Your Song', tales of heartbreak and hope, of pain and passion, of first loves and final moments are weaved throughout this timeless music.
The megastar's biggest hits will be reimagined – there's 'Candle In The Wind', 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road', 'I’m Still Standing', 'Benny And The Jets', 'Tiny Dancer' and more.
Of course, Elton's music is his most common identifier – but he is synonymous with fabulous, eye-catching fashion, too! So it only makes sense, then, that particular attention be paid to what the performers (Andy Cook, Marcus Corowa, Luke Kennedy and Irena Lysiuk) are wearing on the night.
Here, we speak to 'Your Song' Costume Designer Laura Churchill to find out more about the show, and the fashion side of things.
Tell us a little bit about ‘Your Song’, first of all.
'Your Song' celebrates the music of Elton John (who I’m a big fan of) and The Little Red Company has created such a beautiful, fun, emotional and hilarious tribute to his music. People have shared their real stories about their memories of Elton John and how his music impacted their lives and it brings such an extra layer of meaning to the songs. The cast is incredible.
Obviously there’s plenty of inspiration to draw from, with Elton at the centre. Where did you begin when it came to costuming?!
I took the lead from the team in not wanting to recreate and take a literal interpretation of Elton John’s wardrobe. The costumes in 'Your Song' suit the cast’s sense of style and hint at some of Elton’s most iconic looks without being too ‘costumey’. They look cool.
What would you say is your favourite Elton look?
I love Irena in her orange jump suit that we based off the devil costume from the 'Rocketman' film. The very talented Zoe Griffiths made feather epaulettes for everyone’s finale looks and Irena’s bring the whole look together. I made some crystal-studded pink heart glasses for that moment as well and it’s such a great look for her!
Why do you think Elton’s fashion is so iconic?
I think Elton is a trailblazer for his unique style as much as his unique music. True originality doesn’t come along very often at all and that’s why it’s so iconic and so special.
What was the main thing you wanted to get across/communicate through the costumes for this show?
The show that Naomi and Adam crafted is so sincere and profound and I think it would have taken away from that depth if the costumes had have been over the top and show stealers. Each of the cast are playing themselves interpreting and sharing other real people’s stories, and paying such funny and emotional and moving tributes to Elton John’s work. The costumes just helped the audience dive deeper into that world and added colour, beauty and humour to the overall experience.
What is your favourite thing about working on costumes for any given show?
Working with the Little Red team! I can’t even tell you how amazing it is to be part of that energy and among such talented people.
Describe the costumes of ‘Your Song’ in three words.
Red does Elton.
'Your Song' plays Queensland Performing Arts Centre 30 September-1 October.
