Helen Chattaway

After studying theatrical costume interpretation at the London College of Fashion, Helen freelanced for the National Theatre before working in the production workrooms of the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Moving back to London, she joined the running wardrobe department at English National Opera, during which time she took shows to Luxembourg, Buxton and the Barbican, and continued to make and alter costumes and private commissions. Having progressed to the role of wardrobe mistress at ENO, Helen then worked as a freelance maker for the Royal Opera House and ENO, as well as taking private commissions.

Helen has also worked as a costume supervisor for the Buxton Festival and for Carl Rosa Opera at the Tower of London Festival, before joining RADA, first as an assistant then as Deputy Head of Wardrobe.

Helen’s strengths and specialisms include costume construction, alteration and decoration, including beading; couture sewing techniques; and the history of costume and historical research.