Description: Graduate Advisor for the School of Drama, takes us behind the scenes of her work as a design assistant for Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty. From crafting intricate tiaras to collaborating with top costume artisans, she reflects on the artistry and community that have shaped this experience.
For Megan Gurdine Thornberry, Graduate Advisor for the School of Drama, artistry extends far beyond the office. Since April 2024, she has been working with Pacific Northwest Ballet (PNB) as a part-time design assistant on their upcoming production of Sleeping Beauty, featuring costume designs by Tony Award-winner Paul Tazewell (Wicked, Hamilton, In the Heights, Memphis) and scenic design by renowned Northwest glass artist Preston Singletary.
In the fast-paced world of PNB’s costume shop, Megan has done it all—preparing hundreds of fabric rolls, organizing measurement charts, labeling shoes, assisting with ombré dye work, sewing horsehair onto tiaras, and even shopping for materials. But her proudest contributions? The “tiny beautiful things” she’s helped create—delicate swirl tiaras for Aurora’s four attendants and intricate headpieces for the nymphs. These stunning pieces, made from covered millinery wire, metallic horsehair cording, and shimmering rhinestones, are a testament to her craftsmanship and dedication.
Through this experience, Megan has deepened her appreciation for the time and precision required to bring costume designs to life. She’s learned the importance of patience, repetition, and even taking a break—PNB’s costume shop famously pauses for a two-minute dance break every afternoon at 3 p.m. She’s also had the opportunity to connect with some of Seattle’s finest costume artisans, an experience that has elevated her own creative work.
Her expertise has already led to new opportunities, including a commission to produce a set of headpieces for The Little Mermaid at State Street Ballet in Santa Barbara, CA.
Seattle’s theater world is small but mighty, and Megan’s journey with Sleeping Beauty has placed her alongside some of the best in the industry. The production opens this Friday, January 31—don’t miss the chance to see her work come to life on stage!
Photo Caption: Megan Gurdine Thornberry