Costume designer Paul Tazewell made his Broadway debut in 1999 with Bring In ‘Da Noise, Bring In ‘Da Funk, and is currently working on the transfer of Hamilton from The Public Theatre to Broadway. Thomas Kail, the director of Hamilton, will present a Live Design Award for Design Achievement to the show’s design team, including Tazewell, Howell Binkley (lighting), David Korins (sets), and Nevin Steinberg (sound) at NYU on this Thursday evening, June 4, as part of the Live Design New York Master Classes.
Live Design: Who have been your biggest influences and why?
Paul Tazewell: I believe that every director and every design collaborator has been an influence in my work. I have looked to many designers that came before me, and working currently as a peer, and each has their own varied and individual approach to design for theatre and film. I have been influenced by them all.
LD: What would you say is your biggest achievement thus far?
PT: I believe being a recognized costume designer within this New York theatre community and regionally. I would also say sustained longevity over the last 25 years.
LD: What is your favorite production and why?
PT: Currently, Hamilton. Lin-Manuel Miranda has written a brilliant piece of theatre and I am humbled every time I see this beautiful musical performed. It makes each of us so much better for than we could ever be alone.
LD: How did you get into this industry?
PT: I started designing, as well as acting, singing, and dancing, in high school musicals. I attended Pratt institute for my first year of undergrad and then transferred to North Carolina School of the Arts where I received my BFA. I then went to NYU Tisch School of the Arts where I received my MFA in Costume Design and Set Design. From there, I was invited to design for productions at regional theatres such as Arena Stage and Cleveland Playhouse and Center Stage. My first costume design for a Broadway show was Bring In ‘Da Noise, Bring In ‘Da Funk. My career continued from there.
LD: What is your favorite thing about your work as a designer?
PT: I love figuring out how to tell a story using the medium of clothing. I also love the collaboration with directors and fellow designers in telling that story. I love fabric, texture, and the different qualities that different fabrics can bring to a design. I love collaborating with the amazing and talented costume builders and tailors in realizing my designs.
LD: What’s your favorite piece of gear/software/gadget right now, and why?
PT: My #2 Ticonderoga Pencil.
LD: How do you approach a new project in terms of research and design intent?
PT: It is always different but as much as I can I like to stay as open as possible to being inspired by visual imagery from books and the Internet. Keeping the story in mind the whole time I am searching for qualities that intuitively ring true and appropriate to the piece and to the director's vision for telling that story.
LD: What advice would you give to young designers just entering the business?
PT: Stay flexible. Don't clutch too tightly to any idea. There is always another idea that you have or choice that is just as smart if not smarter. Stay open. Be vocal.