Bring the wit, satire and unmistakable style of Blackadder to life with our full-show costume hire from Thespis Theatrical Costumiers.
Set in the court of Queen Elizabeth I, this complete wardrobe package captures the rich Elizabethan styling, bold character looks and theatrical detail that define this classic British comedy.
We specialise exclusively in full-show costume hire, ensuring complete consistency across your production. Every principal and ensemble role is carefully considered, with costumes designed to work together visually on stage.
All costumes include appropriate footwear, hats and accessories, supplied ready for performance.
A complete costume package ensures visual consistency, saves valuable preparation time, is often more cost-effective, and delivers a much stronger, more professional impact on stage than sourcing individual items from multiple suppliers.
Set during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, Blackadder follows the scheming and sharp-witted Edmund Blackadder as he navigates life at court, surrounded by eccentric nobles, rivals and the unpredictable Queen herself.
Packed with satire, quick wit and memorable characters, the show delivers classic British comedy with a strong visual identity rooted in exaggerated Elizabethan style.
Edmund Blackadder – rich Elizabethan attire with dark tones and strong character definition
Queen Elizabeth I – bold, regal gowns with striking colour and detail
Lord Melchett – elaborate court costume reflecting status and eccentricity
Nursie – distinctive character costume with comic visual identity
Ensemble – courtiers, servants and nobles in a variety of period-inspired Elizabethan looks
• Court scenes filled with rich Elizabethan costume detail
• Strong visual contrasts between status and character types
• Exaggerated comedic styling that enhances performance
• Ensemble scenes creating a vibrant royal court atmosphere
Our costumes are designed to combine period inspiration with theatrical practicality, allowing for ease of movement and strong stage presence.
The bold styling helps reinforce the humour and character-driven nature of the show, ensuring each role is instantly recognisable.
Costumes are delivered by our own team using modern long-wheelbase vans, arriving on rails, in labelled garment bags, ready to go straight into your dressing rooms.
As a guide, you will typically require one 6ft rail per 25 costumes to comfortably accommodate the set.
Delays may incur additional charges. It is important that access, space and the relevant personnel are ready at the agreed time to avoid disruption to tightly scheduled deliveries and collections. We aim to provide approximately one hour’s notice by email when our driver has a clear estimated time of arrival. Please note that where third-party couriers or haulage companies are used (typically operating between 07:00 – 19:00), we have no control over exact timings, and missed deliveries or collections may result in additional charges.
• Full-show specialist – no cherry-picking, ensuring complete visual consistency
• Costumes arrive organised, labelled and performance-ready
• Footwear and accessories included as standard
• Barcoded costumes with detailed pick lists for easy identification
• Experienced support from first enquiry through to show week
Our standard hire period is 10 days, with additional days available on a simple pro-rata basis.
Early booking is recommended, particularly for popular comedy productions and peak performance periods.
Do you supply Blackadder as a complete set?
Yes — we specialise in full-show costume hire to ensure a consistent and visually strong production.
Are the costumes historically accurate?
The costumes are inspired by Elizabethan fashion, adapted for theatrical performance and strong visual impact.
Are accessories included?
Yes — where appropriate, hats, footwear and accessories are included as part of the package.
How are the costumes delivered?
Costumes are supplied on hangers in named garment bags for efficient organisation during production week.
Can this work alongside Blackadder Goes Forth?
Yes — we offer separate costume packages for different Blackadder eras and can advise accordingly.
To check availability or request a quote, please contact us at:
hire@thespis.biz
About us and what to expect from Thespis
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