OTP Welcomes Mary Nemecek Peterson

Old Town Playhouse is pleased to announce the visit of noted costume designer Mary Nemecek Peterson, who will conduct a number of workshops open to the public. Ms. Peterson, a native of Schwartz Creek, Michigan, has been designing costumes for over 30 years, working in Theatre, Dance, Opera, Network Television, Commercials and Film.

Her design work for Garth Fagan Dance and The Guiding Light has been seen throughout the United States.  In addition, her work as Associate Designer on The Lion King and Tarzan for Walt Disney Theatrical Productions and on Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark has taken her across the globe, and she has worked with some of the best and most respected theatrical and dance professionals in countries such as Canada, the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Japan, Korea, Argentina, South Africa, and Australia.

Coinciding with OTP’s upcoming production of Doctor Dolittle, Ms. Peterson will be guiding OTP volunteers and the general public in open workshops, working on the animal puppets for Doctor Dolittle. In addition, a children’s workshop in puppetry and movement, an adult workshop in creative sewing and a Q&A session on Ms. Peterson’s work in the arts will all be part of events scheduled at Old Town Playhouse from February 1 – February 8th.

Activities held during Ms. Peterson’s visit will include:

Puppet Construction for Doctor Dolittle - Open Workshops

These work sessions are open to the public, as OTP volunteers, with assistance and guidance from Ms. Peterson, construct a number of animal puppets being used in Doctor Dolittle. Work sessions will be held in the Schmuckal Theatre, on the lower level of the Old Town Playhouse. There is no charge for attendance, but RSVP’s are requested by calling 231-947-2210, ext 105. Dates are:

Creating Your Character and Doing More with Movement
Saturday, February 4, 10 am – noon

This workshop will focus on using movement and puppet manipulation to create realistic and multi-faceted characters. The workshop is geared for children ages 10 and up and participants are encouraged to bring their own puppets to work with. The workshop will be on the lower level of the Old Town Playhouse. There is no charge for the workshop, which is supported with a grant from the Worthington Family Foundation. The workshop is limited to 20 participants and those interested may sign up by calling 231-947-2210, ext 105.

From Picture to Pattern
Saturday, February 4, 2 – 4 pm, $25 suggested donation

This workshop is offered for the designer and sewer, focusing on creative approaches and specific techniques for costuming. This workshop will look at how to take a sketch, photo or existing garment and translate it to a pattern for construction, while also considering draping and fitting. The workshop is geared for adults and will take place in the Costume Shop of Old Town Playhouse. The workshop is limited to 20 participants and those interested may sign up by calling 231-947-2210, ext 105.

Working in the Arts – Lecture and Q&A Session
Tuesday, February 7, 7pm, Old Town Playhouse MainStage Theatre, Tickets $10 per person

Ms. Peterson will speak about her work in the arts and her experiences with such productions as The Lion King, Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark and Tarzan. She will offer a unique perspective on a career in costuming, sharing the history of these noted productions and their impact on costuming, puppetry and design for the stage. Ms. Peterson will share sketches and photos and audience member will have the opportunity to ask questions and participate in the conversation. Reserve tickets online at www.oldtownplayhouse.com or by calling the OTP Box Office at 231-947-2210. Buy Tickets Now for Q&A!