by Kate Thornbury ’19

There is a wonderfully complex aesthetic that goes into the making of a production. Each stitch, stroke, and style on every costume is crafted specifically for every character. Everything is by design. No detail left unattended. The Green Room provides the details that no one particularly asks for, but everyone expects.

I’ve always been fascinated with the behind-the-scenes magic of theater. The quick changes that transpire seamlessly, masks that disguise identity, complex hairstyles–it all captivates my attention and inspires me to be creative.

I had the privilege to lead the vision for costumes, hair, and makeup for this year’s musical production, Into the Woods. With three months, an amazing cast, and four fantastic teammates, we took on the task of creating a look for the actors. The beginning weeks were filled with brainstorming sessions and sketching. The blank cork board sitting atop the counter in the Green Room slowly filled up with designs and ideas. Color schemes and mood boards were created to inspire us and remind us of our ultimate goal and vision.

While the Green Room can be filled with hours of fun, it isn’t always glamorous. Hand stitching fur onto the lapels of The Wolf’s blazer, hemming countless skirts, and digging through the dusty, old attic proved to be quite challenging. But we persevered as a team, bouncing ideas off each other, and encouraging one another in the process.

And finally, the exhibition! There is no greater reward than to see your artistry and hard work come to life with the colorful personalities of each actor. Costumes and makeup are more than just clothes on a hanger and paint in a bottle–they are the shell that an actor must fill in order to bring the character to life. A shell that enhances, that transforms, that’s truly magical.  

“Costumes and makeup are more than just clothes on a hanger and paint in a bottle.”

When I was asked to head the Green Room this year, I had no idea that I would grow even more in patience, friendship, and creativity. I have emerged from this production season with a newfound love for theater.

As I look back on these past few months, I’m feel a satisfaction in knowing that my team and I accomplished something so wonderfully beyond what we could have ever imagined.

Memories live in that little Green Room–memories that spark joy and kindle friendship. They are memories that helped us grow stronger and helped us to grow as a team.

When people ask me ask me about the Green Room, I can’t keep from smiling from these sweet, irreplaceable memories. The Green Room is a beautiful, complex tapestry of stories, and I am so thankful that I was a part of it.

_____________________________________________________________