Handling Ian McKellen’s Shakespeare Costume | V&A

Follow Senior Textile Conservator Susana Fajardo in this ASMR video as she works on a golden tabard worn by Ian McKellen for his performance in Shakespeare's Richard II from 1968 – 1970.

She focusses on the importance of handling an object correctly, especially when dealing with delicate theatre and performance costumes. These garments have often had many lives – having been repaired quickly for the stage and stored in ways which can make preservation difficult, so extra special care must be taken whilst in contact with them.

Process:
Does a conservator need to wear gloves? 00:27
Why is correct handling of an object important? 01:00
Silk pads: 01:31
How can needle damage be reduced? 02:09
Are theatre costumes hard to preserve? 02:36
Photograph of Ian McKellen wearing the gold tabard in Richard II: 03:42