The Unsung Heroes of the Stage
As the curtain rises, all eyes are on the performers – the singers, the dancers, the actors who captivate us with their talent and grace. But what lies beyond the glitz and glamour of the stage? The truth is, the real magic happens behind the scenes, where a dedicated team of wardrobe professionals work tirelessly to bring the characters to life through carefully curated costumes.
I had the privilege of speaking with Stacy Renae, a seasoned costume designer whose work has graced the stages of some of the most prestigious musical theater productions. Her passion for the craft is palpable, and she graciously shared her insights into the intricate world of wardrobe management.
The Art of Character Embodiment
“Costume design is not just about picking pretty clothes,” Stacy explains. “It’s about understanding the character, their personality, and how that translates into their visual representation on stage.” She paints a vivid picture of the process, likening it to a form of method acting. “Just as the actor must inhabit the role, I too must become the character, immersing myself in their story and finding the sartorial elements that will help the performer embody that persona.”
Stacy’s work is a true labor of love, as she collaborates closely with the cast to ensure that each costume not only looks the part but also feels authentic to the performer. “It’s not just about dressing them in the right clothes,” she says. “It’s about creating a sense of confidence and comfort, so that the actor can fully lose themselves in the character and deliver a captivating performance.”
The Wardrobe Whisperer
One of Stacy’s most cherished collaborations was with the late, great Larry Hagman, who famously portrayed the iconic JR Ewing on the hit TV series “Dallas.” She recounts the experience with a sense of reverence, describing Hagman as a “lifelong admirer of costume” who was deeply invested in the creative process.
“The first time I met Larry, it was like a dream come true,” Stacy recalls. “He was so enthusiastic and generous, sharing stories and insights that helped me truly understand the essence of JR Ewing.” Together, they carefully curated a wardrobe that captured the character’s signature swagger, from the tweed jacket with its suede western front yoke to the cowboy hat that sat just so on Hagman’s head.
“It was a true partnership,” Stacy says. “Larry knew exactly what he needed to embody JR, and I was there to facilitate that vision. Every time we worked together, it was a special and enriching experience.”
The Wardrobe Whisperer’s Wisdom
Stacy’s expertise extends beyond the stage, as she has also lent her talents to the set of the Dallas reboot on TNT. In an interview with Dallas Decoder, she shares the secrets behind dressing the iconic Ewing family, including her approach to making the characters’ styles feel “glamorous yet accessible.”
“I love going into secondhand shops in search of something special,” Stacy reveals. “I want the audience to be encouraged to do the same and know that it is possible to look like a million dollars without spending a fortune.”
This philosophy of affordable elegance is evident in Stacy’s work, as she carefully curates a wardrobe that balances high-end and low-cost pieces, creating a sense of aspirational glamour that resonates with viewers. “Even I go into my closet and think, ‘What would Pamela do?’ when shopping for myself,” she admits with a chuckle.
The Wardrobe Whisperer’s Wardrobe Wishlist
When asked about her personal style inspirations, Stacy’s eyes light up as she reveals her fondness for the character of Elena. “She has the most range, with lots of comfortable pieces and this season, we’ve been building up her chic work looks,” Stacy says. “Head-to-toe, there is not a piece in her entire wardrobe that I would not wear myself.”
Stacy’s admiration for Elena’s style is palpable, and it’s easy to see why. The character’s effortless transition from rugged to elegant is a testament to Stacy’s keen eye for detail and her ability to craft wardrobes that are both functional and fashionable.
The Wardrobe Whisperer’s Legacy
As I reflect on my conversation with Stacy, I can’t help but be in awe of the dedication and artistry that goes into the world of wardrobe management. It’s a testament to the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes, bringing the characters we love to life through their sartorial creations.
And the impact of their work extends far beyond the stage. As Stacy herself notes, the costumes on “Dallas” have inspired a new generation of fashion enthusiasts, with the HSN’s Dallas boutique offering fans the chance to dress like their favorite Ewing family members.
It’s a legacy that Stacy and her fellow wardrobe professionals can be truly proud of, as they continue to lift the veil on the magic of the stage and inspire us all to find our own JR Ewing-worthy swagger, one thrift store find at a time.
So, the next time you find yourself captivated by a performance, take a moment to appreciate the unsung heroes who have played a crucial role in bringing that character to life. Because as Stacy so eloquently puts it, “the clothes feel glamorous yet accessible” – and that’s a gift that keeps on giving, both on and off the stage.
