by Megs Vincent

Over the years, the USUO’s Costume Department has supported the company’s dynamic productions through their unparalleled technical skills, creativity, and innovation. This past summer, the Department turned all that inward, in a significant transition that speaks to the adaptability and forward-thinking embroidered into the fabric of Utah Symphony | Utah Opera.

“We’ve been pulling out everything!” Said Carol Wood, Costume Director. “We’ve been taking things off hangers, pulling things out of boxes, and examining all the pieces and various collections we have. We want to identify what’s going to serve us long term while also consolidating our costumes, so we can build out new shows!”

Utah Opera’s history is deeply rooted in a tradition of excellence—and the Costume Department is no different. The team of technicians and artisans have always been dedicated to creating visually stunning and period-accurate costumes that enhance the storytelling of each opera. From intricate military uniforms for Daughter of the Regiment to the hand-painted kimonos for Madame Butterfly, Utah Opera’s Costume Department artisans have consistently demonstrated their exceptional skill and attention to detail.

Embracing Modernization

Though the transition of the Utah Opera’s Costume Department marks a new chapter in its storied history, the shift itself is not just about updating physical space. This process also enables the integration of modern techniques and technology into the costume-making process. One aspect includes extending the life of each costume by increasing its resilience.

“There are a lot of things we can do with the inside of the garment—like flat linings—to make them more durable,” says Costume Director Carol Wood. “These aren’t like normal couture fashion pieces because they go through a lot of wear and tear being worn by multiple artists across many performances.”

As such, extending a garment’s lifespan allows it to live through several operas and multiple artist performances. In fact, during a Costume Department tour earlier this year, a young mother found the exact costume she had worn as a child in a previous production of Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel. The costume itself was still in excellent condition and ready to be used in the next performance.

Honoring Tradition

While embracing new modern visions, the Utah Opera Costume Department remains deeply respectful of its rich traditions. Many costumes in our collection are valuable historical pieces that have been meticulously preserved. These costumes not only represent the history of the opera, but also serve as inspiration for new creations.

In addition, the Utah Opera Costume Department maintains an extensive archive of production books, often referred to as “The Books.” These books (some of which are now digital) contain detailed records of nearly every costume, including fabric swatches, construction methods, and alterations. As a result, this meticulous documentation ensures that costumes can be recreated or adapted for future productions, preserving the legacy of past performances.

“Having records of what we’ve created in the past is critical to ensuring the integrity of each production,” said Wood. “It allows us to reference materials, styles, and draw inspiration from past designs as we move forward with creating new shows.”

Utah Opera’s Costume Department is a testament to dedication and vision. By balancing tradition with innovation, these incredible artists continue to elevate the operatic experience for audiences. As they look to the future, the Costume Department remains a vital and vibrant part of Utah Opera’s artistic journey, ensuring that each production is a feast for the eyes as well as the ears.