Yes, it is just a hypothetical question from the "prof".
What about, if X (the costume designer) refuses to change the costumes, and the budget doesn't allow for different paint on the the scene. What to do then? This is just my hypothetical question now.
I am a University student working has a stage manager for a production, and I have had an issue with the costume designer being stubborn with the fabric being used and the colours of the dresses won't blend properly with the set because of the paint colors used on the set. What should I do about...