Rendering of the King from The Lion and the Jewel

This rendering is apart of the costume design process that Myrna Colley-Lee used for the King in the play, The Lion and the Jewel. In circa 1959, Mryna used this rendering to bring the King's regal character to life. From the King's posture to the diverse patterns and colors that are used for his costume this assert's Myrna's dedication to her work.

Before she creates a rendering, she studies the script and from the director's guidance of the character she uses her imagination to exceed the director's expectations. Her design of the King's costume is how she honors the African culture. From her research, she is able to apply the black and white stripes along with the different shades of pink and orange to his costume. These colors and diverse patterns reflect the textures that are applied in the costume that she creates after the rendering.

Although, her renderings don't always reflect the finished product of her physical costumes it adds credibility to her character. Without her dedication to the Black Theatre movement she wouldn't be able to create these characters. Her renderings add visibility to the African cultures she studies and inspires others to advocate for Black stories to be on stage. These renderings ultimately honor the characters that she creates. If this wasn't apart of her costume design process Myrna would not be able to give an accurate portrayal of this King in The Lion and the Jewel.