Meet Robin L. McGee | Theatrical Costume Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Robin L. McGee and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Robin L., why did you pursue a creative career?
There is a phrase in theatre, “if you can do anything else…. do it” because it is a hard profession. I tried to do something else, but Theatre and story telling and the people always called me back. No two days are exactly alike and I like that. I also like the problem solving aspect of designing for theatre. Who are these people? What do they need to wear tell the story to the audience?

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When you say “costume designer” to anyone not in the business, as an answer to the age old “so what do you do? ” question, it is often met with awe, or confusion. No I don’t design Halloween costumes. I help the Theatrical production team tell the story. I often say we as costume designers have the first word about a character, because the audience sees them and makes assumptions about them the instant they walk on stage. Our job is to work with the Actor to help convey the character and the story.

I am proud of my body of work.- I like the challenges of different media, and I do a little of everything. I have worked all over the country and have done all kinds of shows- everything from Circus Clowns to Period Operas and everything in between.

Was it easy? NO. Still is not easy for women in any field; but I feel we are finally voicing our concerns about the inequality, and working with other women to make it easier for us all.

Working for ourselves and networking is hard as well, there is no “resting on your laurels.” Everyday, there is pressure to prove yourself all over again.

I think we all are still learning lessons along the way. For me, what I do is personal, so I am learning to separate myself and my life from my work.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take them to Fraunces Tavern.. one of the oldest in the country. A Place where George Washington or Alexander Hamilton might have eaten. Definitely a Broadway show! or Three!
Drinks on Top of the Rock.
Chinese Food in Little china South of Canal.
I live just over the river. and there are a couple of restaurants near the water that are quite good and peaceful with an amazing view of the city from the outside looking in.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Ann Would-Ward. She is a Tony award winning designer who was my boss for many years. She taught me more about this business and about being a costume designer than anyone else. There were many young assistants who look up to her and credit her with their growth as an artist, I am one of many. I am forever grateful to her mentorship.

Website: www.rlmcgeedesign.com

Instagram: @rlmcgeedesigns

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-mcgee-a276ba4/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rlmcgeedesign/

Image Credits
Robin L. McGee