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  • Writer's pictureSusi Morales

The Tale of the Turtle Costumes: A Seaside Showstopper!

Ahoy, dye-loving souls! Gather 'round as I unravel the epic adventure that ensued in the creation of custom costumes that made a splash at the YAT community theater in San Diego, CA.


The Call of the Deep


The journey started with a daring concept: turning theatrical little people into magnificent sea turtles and water dancers crafting a captivating underwater spectacle on stage. Fueled by passion and a touch of insanity, I embarked on designing costumes resembling turtle legs and bellies, perfect for a grand aquatic performance. This adventure unfolded during the planning stages of the (YAT San Diego) youth theater production of "Finding Nemo, Jr.," under the direction of my sister, Christine Cordova. Oh, the challenges and victories that lay ahead!


turtle costumes


Costumes fit for the depths!


Dive into Dyeing


At the center of our modest home, my son and husband assisted me in starting a valiant project - dyeing a massive 20 yards of fabric to mimic the glistening waters of the ocean floor. After using a plethora of dye of swirling blues, and creating quite a mess, my sister's vision began to come to life. It was surprising how enjoyable and chaotic it could be to craft a sea of blue.


tie-dye fabric

Dyed to perfection!


Team Turtle Troupe


As the days melded into nights, I worked tirelessly to whirl into existence 15 delightful turtle costumes that would soon steal the spotlight. Laughter, banters, and the occasional fabric mishaps filled my hours, bonding my sister and I tighter than any thread possibly could. Each fold became a tale, each dye drop a memory, making this project much more than a custom dye job.






Bringing the community together with art!


The Show Must Swim On!


With the turtles finally finished and mailed, and the water materials delivered into the hands of the mighty costumers, the grand day arrived. The stage beckoned, the audience awaited, and I knew my sister was about to unleash a spectacle unlike any other. As her water dancers gracefully swirled in their vibrant ocean hues, and the turtles glided onto the stage the magic unfurled before our very eyes. Gasps, whispers, and thunderous applause - our hearts swelled as our labor of love came to life.






Immerse yourself in the world of tie-dye where passion and imagination intertwine. A costume enthusiast and a dye artisan came together and brought their vision to life through dedication and determination, and a little bit of off-the-charts insanity. They transformed fabrics into vibrant masterpieces, celebrating unity and joy. Join us in celebrating the magic of tie dye and embrace the beauty of unpredictability. Stay creative and let your imagination soar!


And that, my friends, is how we turned a simple bunch of white fabric into a theatrical extravaganza that continues to echo through the sands of time.


Keep swimming,

Susi


P.S. Remember to let your creativity run as deep as the ocean and your laughter flow as freely as the waves! If you are interested in learning more about YAT, you can find them on the web at https://www.yatsandiego.org/

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