Opening Scene

Actors welcome Millie into the rush of the city in the musical’s opening scene. After much anticipation, the show begins with a solo by Millie and then a group number with remaining cast members. This is where audience members can more clearly understand the setting of the show. Rebecca White, the faculty costume designer, began period research for the 104 different costumes last spring. 21 of these costumes are constructed by the White, and the rest are pulled from our stock, rented, or purchased. “The period of the show gives a jumping-off point for my research, but the characters and story are most important,” said White. “Our job is to enhance the story and characters, which usually means we are not 100% period accurate. For example, the show takes place in 1922, but the clothes are more like the late 1920's because the early 20's were mostly shapeless sacks and aren't nearly as fun to look at as the late 20's.”