In Flashes: A Fantasy Play, Miguel puts on a fantasy play in the theatre of his mind to make sense of his tumultuous childhood. This new work was produced in 3 weeks as part of the University of Iowa Gallery series in Fall of 2024. This series focuses on new work development, with the playwright and director collaborating with the actors and designers until opening night. The play integrated the script-in-hand into the story. It was written by Adrian Enzastiga and directed by Michael Flores. Set design by Nazanin Vakili. Lighting design by Gabbie Johnson. Costumes by Chelsea.

Chelsea’s costume influences for the work revolved around gender identity and the act of play. Using the color red, Chelsea highlighted Miguel’s quest for love and forgiveness. LED accessories and props highlighted the joy of youthful playing and imagination for young Miguel. The color palette played on themes of the Day of the Dead and Miguel’s Mexican heritage, as explored in the play.

Because the production was only three weeks and with little budget, the garments were primarily pulled from stock, with some thrifting and construction required (no shop support provided). All alterations and construction was performed by Chelsea, which included hemming, quick-rigging and repairing several items.

For Miguel as an adult, Chelsea collaborated with the director and actor to create a look that expressed exploration of feminine and masculine identity through fashion. The one shoulder top was draped and constructed by Chelsea to create a look for an imagined headspace in the moment the character needed to feel a strong sense of self and resilience. The sheer silhouette was inspired by runway fashion, with the twist of color and sparkling florals added to play on the characters more flamboyant identity.

Paul, another key character, was styled to appear to be in mourning for his lost love. He wears a black caftan and a floral headpiece inspired by a day of the dead mask inspired by his lover’s heritage. Chelsea constructed the floral headpiece.

Papa’s outfit was inspired by the character’s stability and feelings of warmth and security. His red puffer vest stands in contrast to his wife’s cooler pallets, and we see the red replicated in Miguel’s grandmother, Suzie in the second act. Debbie’s look is inspired by the idea of a Gen-X farmer, grandmother bad-ass with bright warm colors and playful prints that express individuality and strength.

The following renderings were created after the show to capture the final vision of the designer. All photos were captured in final rehearsals. For more information about this production please go here.