The Millinery shop is located in the back hallway on the Lower Level of the Festival Theatre, near Boots & Shoes and the Dye Room.
The millinery department creates three-dimensional wearable art based on the designs of each designer. Each milliner builds multiple shows simultaneously, as this is a repertory theatre. They draw from the warehouse when budgets and time frames limit the time allowed for a build. Stock from the warehouse has to be altered and refurbished before being stage-worthy. Each headdress requires collaboration with multiple departments such as wigs, props, dyers, and the buyer's office. Each piece requires forethought and planning. Are the materials pre-dyed? Will they need distressing after completion? Scheduling work flow in and out of departments and fittings is always a factor. Generally, headwear is worn over wig preps and/or a wig. This creates a need for larger hats than are available by retail suppliers, so they must be built in-house. Our goal is always to create a hat or headdress that is true to the design, comfortable for the wearer, lightweight and balanced, and ultimately helps the artist connect with the character.
The text content of this page was provided by Kaz Maxine and Monica Viani April 27th, 202