DIANE SPECIOSO I prefer not to start with an idea that I impose on the actor. I provide the solid historical background of art, fashion, society and politics, my technical skills and artistic sensibility and we go from there...I research, I consult the director, the designers and most importantly the actor ....I share ideas, images, fabrics, colors - they give me their ideas and needs...and from there I begin to watch... watch the actor move. And listen....listen to how they say it, what they are saying. I can only get so much from reading the play. This thing is alive – the only real way for me to design is feeling and seeing and hearing. It’s a very personal, intimate process. I design for a particular actor - i'm not not a cookie cutter designer. My approach to design is a true collaboration between director, designers, actor...each costume a unique expression of the specific actor, their body and their character. Today people are moving so fast, it is difficult to get the time to work in my way. I barely get to meet the actor or hear a rehearsal...
I have a particular expertise in designing pieces inspired by historical periods and in designing for children. My unique personal way of designing has transformed many a young actor's life - boosting self image, ego, self respect, confidence...
Diane has worked in apparel design, retail management, dance costume design, costume conservation at The Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute, textile and tapestry conservation at Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine and collects vintage clothing and jewelry.
Diane met Al Ramos when she designed costumes for her first play, "Pains of Youth", at the Broome Street Theater in 1990. She has been designing and producing theater and film ever since. She co-founded Tribeca Lab in 1992, where she co-produced and designed costumes for at least 12 productions per year, produced an ongoing music series "People Making Sounds" (PMS), and took care of all of the day to day administrative needs of the theater.