Ansje van Dijk has taught the Scenography and Production and Stage Management programmes at de Theaterschool for many years. During her lessons she made use of a unique collection of costumes and ornaments which she once started collecting specially for this purpose. Convinced that the collection must be retained for educational use, Ansje has now donated the costumes to de Theaterschool. She has decided to relinquish her work as teacher but will continue to give lectures.

The collection of costumes is exceptional because they are not treated as museum exhibits, but may be handled and worn. Ansje wants students to experience the link between the material of the garments and people’s behaviour.

De Theaterschool has promised to take good care of the collection and to continue using it for educational goals. Eva IJsveld will act as custodian for the collection in close collaboration with Ellen den Bouwmeester, head of the Costume Department. Following Ansje’s lead, Eva has already used the collection in her own lessons for a number of years. In the future she also plans to teach at other study programmes and faculties.

De Theaterschool is proud to be able to contribute to the preservation – and particularly the educational use – of this splendid and unique collection, Ansje van Dijk’s life work.