Costume Crazy

What did I do in the week I've been silent?

Costumes.

Seriously, I feel like that's all I've done. Maybe it's a bit of an exaggeration.

Since Monday night, I have been at dress rehearsals. The first night I was super pumped to see my designs in action. It was fantastic! Lots of things to fix, but still fantastic! There are an extreame number of quick changes in this show, so lots of velcro had to be added.

I hate velcro. Nothing looks good with velcro holding it together. But, gotta do what you gotta do.

Changes were made, Tuesday came around. Not as many problems, but the problems that were there were repeats from the night before. Super frustrating. I felt very responsible for every mistake that was made, which was crazy. I couldn't help the fact the actor couldn't figure out how to put on a cape (that's what we call "an actor problem", or as it's been retitled in honor of the actor with the most problems in this show, "a Tiemen problem.") It really wasn't my fault the first round of velcro wasn't strong enough to hold. It really wasn't my fault the director told me to change a costume very last minute, a change that wasn't bad, but wasn't what I loved.

It sure felt like it was all my fault. Designing is one thing, but when you've been a part of the creating process as well, the pressure feels double.

So I left Tuesday night feeling very defeated and very alone. It hit me that all of the women I went to last year in times of trouble aren't here this year. When that support system is no longer in place, it doesn't feel good.

Until about seven tonight, I was melancholy. Then final dress started. There was an audience, there was energy, there were minimal costume issues. Still can't say I'm completely over my melancholy, but it's on the uphill swing.

I was about due for a mental breakdown anyway. Should have expected it. :)

But, God is faithful. Things will get better, and this problem won't look like such a big deal in a couple months. Just a little crazy now.

If it wasn't crazy, I'd probably be bored.

Until next time, deep breath.