The smart costume uses a lightweight programmable LED system built around an Arduino-compatible control platform with concealed battery power and distributed LED placement. Four lighting states were programmed to align with choreographic timing:

1. Stand-alone pulsing red heart
2. Flickering white LED spread across
3. Stand-alone pulsing red heart with flickering white LED spread across
4. Animated multicolor sequence for the final transformation with colorful heart

Flexible LED wiring was embedded within the tulle layers to preserve the fit and flow of the tutu while maintaining visibility under stage lighting. Electronic pathways between different elements were developed to minimize bulk and avoid interference during lifts.

Because the character functions inside a visually rich production that combines multiple dancers and a lot of movement around itself, the smart costume had to remain legible both as an individual character and within ensemble staging.

Development focused on:
1. Light diffusion and spreading placement through layered fabric
2. Concealed electronic routing
3. Mechanical visual cues without sacrificing movement of the tutu or the dancer

Multiple rounds of testing examined how light behaved during motion, how color shifted under stage illumination, and how the electronics performed under repeated costume handling

Electronic housings for the controller and power system were developed through multiple CAD iterations and produced using 3D printing to create a low-profile form that could sit discreetly within the costume without affecting movement. The housings were designed to protect components while allowing access for battery replacement, wiring adjustments, and reprogramming during rehearsals to adjust lighting, and more.

Battery and controller placement were distributed to preserve balance and reduce visual interruption during choreography, while modular component placement allowed repairs and adjustments throughout the performance run.

To support the costume’s transformation sequence, the lighting system was programmed to activate in four distinct stages: a red illuminated heart, white LEDs distributed across the tutu, the red heart with the white LED’s, and a final multicolor animated sequence. An Arduino-based controller coordinated the timing and transitions, while stage testing under theatrical lighting helped refine brightness, color visibility, and overall effect during live performance.

The electronics package included; Arduino-based controller, addressable LED strips, rechargeable battery system, and lightweight connection hardware.