Costumer's Kitchen 3

One of the best and worst things a costumer can ever do is bake sweets for her cast. I tend to try it out once to see how my cast/technicians handle themselves and if they pass they are rewarded with more baked goodies of love. Here is a list of the top five things to keep in mind when feeding your little monsters...I mean actors and other technicians. 

1. Keep the portions small. Your cast should not be eating during the show, but even after, the last thing they need is a cookie the size of a Frisbee. Make cute mini muffins, brownies, etc. They go farther and won't spoil appetites.

2. Leave a sweet reminder with the goodies. I normally make a short but kind reminder on a napkin next to my goodies. Let them know these are treats for after the show, everyone will get one, and they are from you, the costumer. But also be stern with the reminder they are not to eat in costume and if they are caught no more tasty goodies for everyone. Bonus points if you let them know there will be treats after and only put the goodies out AFTER the show is over.

3. Make a Label. Despite how many times people joke about the dairy-free, nut-free, gluten-free world we now live in, there are indeed people who are VERY allergic to foods. Make sure to post a note with your sweet reminder (see point 2) detailing what is in the treat. If you used something that someone may be allergic to, like nuts, milk, wheat, eggs, etc. make a small note. Those eating your goodies will thank you. 

4. Keep the treats "cleanable". Don't make mom's famous ooey gooey seven layer bars. Make something that is easily cleaned up after the last morsel has been consumed. Bonus points if you provide napkins!

5. Don't feel obligated. Costumers tend to be known for having tasty treats around, but don't feel like it is in your job description. During fittings I tend to have something small in the area if I'm having a long day of fittings. Again, they aren't required. If anyone ever bothers you about not having treats out, remind them in a kind tone that you are not their Nan.  

Here's a Vegan/Gluten Free Blondie recipe  from Ambitious Kitchen that has been tested in the theater sphere and has gone over well each time. They can tend to be a bit crumbly at times though, so napkins are a must and having them AFTER the show as mentioned in point 2 is a great idea. (I cut mine into squares and then triangles. They look cute and also are rich enough that a small triangle is very filling.)

More Costumer's Kitchen Articles: Here!