Because of your help with fundraising, the Senior Production choreographers are given the invaluable experience of working with designers to create costumes specific for each dancer. This is a rare privilege for young choreographers such as ourselves.
Q: How did you end up as a costume designer for Senior Production?
A: I am an alumnus of the Juilliard Costume Shop Internship program. I loved my time here at Juilliard and formed many friendships with the other interns and members of the costume shop. In January 2009 a costume design spot opened last minute for the upcoming Senior Production Season. I was very excited and honored to be part of the team. This is my 6th season!
Q: What is your process like?
A: My process varies greatly depending on the piece and the kind of work. I approach Senior Production full steam ahead because we have very little time between first showing and our actual design formation. At first showing, I try to be open to everything the choreographers are presenting and also see past this initial stage. I try to look at core movements and feeling, and what I respond to visually and intellectually. Sometimes an idea of clothing comes to me right away and sometimes I have to dissect what it is I am seeing and find abstract visuals to begin discussion.
Q: Where do you find inspiration for your work?
A: Everywhere! From the NYC pedestrians, artwork, fashion, nature, music, the dancers themselves, pretty much everywhere.
Q: What do you find special about working with Senior Production?
A: I really enjoy going through this process with the choreographers. It is a very exciting time for them personally, at the end of their Juilliard journey, and I really enjoy going through the process of learning to speak visual about their work. And how the visual or the costumes can help create, enhance, and better define their choreography or overall piece. It is an amazing opportunity they are given and it is a total luxury, as a costume designer, to work with the amazing Juilliard Costume Shop!
To see more of Mary Kokie McNaugher’s work check out her website: http://www.marykokiemcnaugher.com/
Our other costume designers for Senior Production are Amanda Seymour, Justin Hall and Kimberly Glennon. To see what these fantastic designers come up with, come see Senior Production 2014!