Backstage at It Hynder fan Harich Costume & make-up

At ‘It Hynder fan Harich’, the transformation of everyone taking part begins well before the performance. In the make-up room, hairstyles and make-up are carefully matched to the different roles. Meanwhile, the historical costumes have to be put on, checked and finished down to the last detail. Every step counts, because behind the scenes everything runs to a tight schedule.

The costumes (designed by Jiska Jansen’s team) and the make-up (led by Lize Talsma) do more than bring another era back to life. They also help the performers to fully inhabit their characters. Colours, fabrics and details have been deliberately chosen to suit the staging and the particular lighting conditions in the hall.

Did you know?

What looks subtle up close must still make an impact from far away.

In a show like ‘It Hynder fan Harich’, there is an added challenge: people and animals share the arena floor. Costumes must therefore not only look authentic and expressive, but also allow enough freedom of movement and be suitable for working with the horses. Safety, comfort and a strong presence on the floor have to go hand in hand.

The photo offers a rare glimpse of that intense moment just before the performance. As the final touches are made, concentration rises, and step by step the actors, riders and drivers become the characters of the story. Because the magic of ‘It Hynder fan Harich’ doesn’t begin in the spotlight: it begins behind the scenes.