Thread: Why a changing room?

IMO, the first time you're seen by the audience should ideally be at the best you're going to be, at ease, glamorous, in character, in costume, with perfect makeup and with every hair in place. First impressions and all. Having a good cover-up is essential, as it keeps the mystery intact during your arrival. You need a private place where you can transition from real-life traveler with your rolling suitcase, handbag, and who-knows-what-else to fantasy-land glamorous star, and a private moment to take care of the details necessary to pull that off and compose yourself.

On a related note, my first teacher and mentor was a real stickler for offstage deportment, and it has always stayed with me. For example, I loathe run-down, crummy bags that are unkempt and falling apart or street clothes that are sloppy; you're still a fantasy figure, even out of costume. And please, find a suitable way to transport your props ... (this is a pet peeve of mine) don't show up with your sword in a crumpled plastic shopping bag from the drug store, especially if it's a fancy venue. Try to look first-class in every way; I think it can help further our goal of increased respect if we do. Like it or not, the condition of your luggage, clothing, and costumes affect people's perception of how good you are ... (unless you're a grunge band, maybe ...)

Originally Posted by rassicahl

"Have you ever tried to drive a car wearing harem pants and a 6 yard circle skirt? " Driving in a 25 yard gypsy skirt with harem pants is fun also. You have to pile the skirt up in your lap and your foot keeps getting caught in your harem pants.

"No, officer, really, I have NOT been drinking. It's these pants. And the steering wheel was hung up on all this skirt..." .w.:

One word:

Naked




I'm also a big fan of preserving the mystique of the dancer (and the longevity of my costumes) by trying not to wander around in them when I'm not actually performing.

Originally Posted by Kimahri

Ugh...earlier this year I had a gig very close to home and I knew changing there would be be difficult so I decided to very carefully wear my costume. I hit a pothole and blew out 2 tires on the way and had to get out on the highway in full battle rattle in broad daylight

~~Kimahri

*LOL*

I hear ya! I was on my way home from a private party gig when I broke down a 10 p.m under a street light in an...unsavory...part of town...in a bedla and coverup.... (I'd actually already slipped the bra off when I got back into the car after the gig, so I had to put that back on before AAA arrived and a small group or people gathered to see what was up with the chick in the goofy get-up.)

Soooo charming. ,r:;

So definitely, nice if you can change onsite. Absolutely necessary for restaurant/club gigs, for all the reasons people mentioned. And that goes extra for winter!!!