Costume design for wildlife conservation: Evaluating the educational impact of theatrical costumes in eco-theatre

Abstract

Wildlife conservation is vital for ecosystem health, as species play crucial roles in pollination and nutrient cycling. This study examines how integrating conservation education with the arts, particularly through theatre, can effectively engage youth. Focusing on the Anak Rimba theatre show in Sarawak, the research explores the role of character costume design in enhancing environmental awareness. Employing a four-stage mixed-method approach, the study combines quantitative and qualitative methods. The stages include (1) developing a conceptual design approach, (2) creating costume prototypes inspired by endangered animals, (3) conducting a survey with 118 audience members, and (4) evaluating costume impact on audience perception and engagement. In the design process, eco-friendly materials and ethical production practices were prioritized to create functional and symbolically representative costumes of each animal’s traits. Results show that the costumes greatly enriched the theatrical experience, enhancing the performance’s visual and educational impact. Feedback indicated that costume design, as part of an interactive theatre experience, can effectively convey conservation messages, underscoring the potential of creative arts to inspire environmental stewardship among young audiences. This research supports the use of theatre and costume design as engaging tools for conservation education.