My research and expertise is based in the world of theatrical Costume Construction. While performers appear to be wearing clothes on stage, costumes are actually quite different than fashion. Beyond the obvious differences where period costumes are concerned, theatrical costumes need to be constructed in durable but lightweight manner to evoke character, while enduring multiple performances and unusual activity present in theatrical production (sword fighting, extreme choreography, flying). Furthermore, creation of character via fabric requires knowledge of physics as it relates to fibers, weaves and the way that fabrics react to gravity and mold over the body. For example, cotton is a very common fiber from which fabric is made, but comes in numerous styles: denims, coutils, jersey knits, corduroys, sateens, etc. Each of these fabrics react very differently to gravity and mold the body in very disparate manners.
keywords
arts, performance, costume, design, physics, chemistry, textiles, history, art history, career development, fashion, indigenous people, historical context, traditional artisanry
Teaching
courses taught
THTR 1009 - Theatre and Society
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2023 / Fall 2024
Explores the importance of telling (and listening) to stories from the stages of the world; in theatre we learn what people value in their time and place. Investigates the range of genres of theatre in today's society and how theatrical artwork is devised and presented. Ideal for non-majors.
THTR 1050 - Introduction to Stagecraft and Design
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2023 / Fall 2024
Hands on project-based learning introducing the craft, principles, and practices of stagecraft and design. Students execute varied projects in topics including scenic, lighting, sound, and costume design as well as stage management, scenic construction, painting, props, sewing, hair and wigs, dyeing, and makeup. This course is ideal for those interested in theatre, film, dance, fine art, architecture, cosplay, fashion, engineering, and game design.
THTR 1115 - Costume Technologies
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018 / Fall 2018 / Spring 2019 / Fall 2019 / Spring 2020 / Fall 2020 / Spring 2021 / Fall 2021 / Spring 2022 / Fall 2022
Introduces technical production elements and procedures including materials, organizations, methods and equipment to realize theatrical costuming and make-up.
THTR 2105 - Introduction to Performance Design
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2018 / Fall 2019 / Fall 2020 / Fall 2021 / Spring 2023 / Spring 2024
Introduces the creative/collaborative process of design for theatre and dance, including scenery, costume, lighting, and sound. Students create design projects and evaluate them with regard to artistic and practical concerns. Much of the course work is hands-on, experiential, and team-oriented.
THTR 4025 - Costume Patterning and Construction
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2024
Includes techniques for the patterning and construction of contemporary and period costumes. Hands-on format covers techniques, materials and equipment particular to theatrical production. Same as THTR 5025.
THTR 4149 - Theatre Internship
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2019 / Spring 2020 / Fall 2020 / Spring 2021 / Summer 2021 / Fall 2022 / Spring 2023 / Summer 2023 / Fall 2023 / Spring 2024 / Summer 2024
Provides opportunities for theatre majors to explore career opportunities in theatre fields other than, or in addition to, those with performance emphasis. Students apply knowledge and skills developed in their major studies to a practical work experience. May be repeated up to 6 total credit hours. Recommended requisite: 30 credit hours in THTR.
THTR 5025 - Costume Patterning and Construction
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018 / Spring 2019 / Spring 2020 / Spring 2021 / Spring 2022 / Spring 2023
Includes techniques for the patterning and construction of contemporary and period costumes. Hands-on format covers techniques, materials and equipment particular to theatrical production.
THTR 5045 - Costume Crafts
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2019 / Fall 2021 / Fall 2022 / Spring 2024
Covers basic and advanced techniques in casting/molding, mask making, dyeing, painting, jewelry making, ventilating and wig style and millinery via a series of projects. Culminates in a final project encompassing all techniques. Instruction consent required. May be repeated up to 6 total credit hours. Formerly THTR 5045. Recommended prerequisite: THTR 1115 (minimum grade C-). Same as THTR 4046.
THTR 5065 - Theatrical Tailoring
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2020
Explores classic and theatrical tailoring techniques and theories through the construction of classical men's wear: trousers, vest/waistcoats and coats. Student work with hand and machine sewing techniques, patterning skills and appropriate tailoring materials. Period of exploration will vary by semester. Recommended prerequisite: THTR 1115. Repeatable for credit up to 6 total credit hours.
