I am a Washington, D.C. local draper and all around costume technician. I am currently employed by Arena Stage as one of two drapers. Previously I served the Olney Theatre Center as the sole Cutter/Draper. and Washington National Opera as a first hand.  I have my MFA from Boston University in Costume Production and a BA in Theatre from James Madison University. I have worked as a stitcher, first hand, dresser, and wardrobe supervisor with several different theatres.

 

As a draper for Arena Stage I develop patterns for all shows and delegate assignments to my first hand and stitchers. I attend fittings with designers and ensure both actor comfort and proper adherence to the vision of the production. As the sole draper for The Olney Theatre Center I created patterns to be constructed by either myself or the apprentices, who are in the process of developing their skills. As such I often need to be flexible with plans and timelines to ensure the completion of the garment by fittings or tech. I teach where needed and love to introduce techniques and explain concepts to those eager to learn. I also maintained a well loved stock and a clean and safe workplace. My experience as a draper in various shops has allowed me to develop my leadership abilities. I am extremely organized and seek in all cases to maintain a positive and productive environment for my team.

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As the sole draper at Olney Theatre Center I worked closely with designers and actors to ensure the comfort and safety of our actors while staying true to the artistic project. I created patterns to be constructed by either myself or our apprentices, who are in the process of developing their skills. As such I often needed to be flexible with plans and timelines to ensure the completion of the garment by fittings or tech. I teach where needed and love to introduce techniques and explain concepts to those eager to learn. I also maintain a well organized stock and a clean, safe, and productive work environment.

 

At Washington National Opera I assisted my draper in the construction of all garments for the season. I cut all patterns made by my draper and was often delegated pattern making of my own. We often opened two operas within a month so I am experienced in keeping track of many moving parts. I ensured all garments were ready and prepped for fittings by either stitching myself or assigning tasks to stitchers. I engaged with Broadway caliber designers to help create unique costumes as well as taking a set of costumes from another company and fitting them to our singers. My time there was an invaluable learning experience in construction and time management.

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​Working towards my master’s degree in costume production at BU, my main focus was in construction. While I did have to take classes in design, which helps me have productive conversations with designers, my classes were in pattern making and construction techniques for all periods, genders, and styles. I draped for mainstage productions at the university, while once concurrently serving as shop foreman. I was often pushed to find creative solutions to unusual designs and production needs. My education provided me with practical experience by working within a time and budget limit while pushing my boundaries with exciting build assignments.

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Upon graduating with my master’s degree, I was the assistant costume shop manager of the University of Maryland Baltimore County. My role there was to assist in the sewing lectures and be the primary leader for students completing practicum hours. These hours consisted of in-shop sewing, where they learned practical sewing skills by working on that semester's mainstage show, and running wardrobe during those shows. I made sure all tasks were completed to an exacting standard and worked with students to troubleshoot any and all issues.

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My favorite thing to do is create patterns and a perfect fit though my current position allows for a much wider array of tasks, which I love as well.