I’ve worn a lot of hats since I started working in the theater.  And I’ve loved just about every job I’ve ever had, because it was in the theater.

Except one . . . when I worked in a costume shop.

Yep, I wasn’t so fond of that.  And why?  Because I sucked at it.

Not only could I not thread a needle, I couldn’t understand which color went with which, and what the heck is a spat for anyway?

Ugh.  Just thinking about costumes and design makes my head hurt.  Which is why I have so much respect for those that do it . . . and do it better than anyone else.

One of those someones is none other than today’s podcast guest, the Tony Award-winning Costume Designer, Gregg Barnes.  Kinky Boots, Something Rotten!, Aladdin, and The Drowsy Chaperone are just a few of the shows that feature Barnes originals.  And a little known secret – I first met Gregg when he taught a costume class at NYU.  (I’m sure I sucked at it then too.  Sorry, Gregg.)

I had so much to learn from Gregg, and thankfully he schooled me up on everything wardrobe related and more, like:

• What social media site is his new favorite design tool.
• Why Broadway costumes are so darn expensive.
• How to calculate the right costume budget.
• His first step when designing any new show.
• When he likes to be hired on a show, and who MUST be hired before him.

Just having this frank fashion convo with Gregg made me finally feel like I don’t suck as much anymore.

But I still can’t thread a #@$%ing needle.

Enjoy Gregg!

(Got a comment? I love ‘em, so comment below! Email Subscribers, click here then scroll down to say what’s on your mind!)