Bailiwick Chicago Seeks Fashion Designers for AIDA

Bailiwick Chicago's Executive Director Kevin Mayes announced a call for fashion designer submissions for the upcoming production of Elton John and Tim Rice's AIDA, which will begin previews on July 1st at American Theatre Company. Bailiwick Chicago seeks four designers to create Egyptian-inspired gowns for the production's fashion show-themed musical number, "My Strongest Suit."

"This is a unique opportunity for local designers to display their talents to a new audience every night," said Mayes. "The selected designers will be responsible for only one dress each, to be worn by an actress down the set's ‘runway'. These four designs should not only be Egyptian-inspired, but should be fun and outrageous. We're looking for real ‘knock-out' designs to bring this fashion-show-within-a-show to life."

The chosen designers will collaborate with the production's design team to craft a gown, using their own materials. In return, the designer will be featured in press publications and the show program. The dresses will be used for the entire run of the production and will be returned to each the designer once show has closed. Designers will be expected to provide completed garments by Wednesday, June 23rd.

Interested applicants may submit their proposals by email to aidadesign@bailiwickchicago.com. Proposals should include a cover letter, resume or bio, and samples of previous work (website links are strongly suggested.) The deadline for submitting proposals is May 17.

In the first Chicago production since its national tour, Elton John and Tim Rice's AIDA will be directed by Bailiwick Chicago Collective member Scott Ferguson, with co-musical direction by Jimmy Morehead and Collective member Robert Ollis, and original choreography by Iega Jeff (Artistic Director of the Chicago dance company, Deeply Rooted Productions) and Gary Abbott (Associate Artistic Director, Deeply Rooted Productions). Featuring a large, multiracial cast, AIDA will begin previews on July 1st at American Theatre Company, 1707 W. Byron, with opening night scheduled for July 9th.

Further details about this show and as well as the rest of the 2010 Spring / Summer season can be found on the company's website, www.bailiwickchicago.com.

Bailiwick Chicago was formed by a group of dedicated actors, directors, and production professionals when Bailiwick Repertory Theater closed its doors in September 2009. This group, called the "Collective," is responsible for developing, implementing, and upholding the artistic mission and vision of the company. Bailiwick Chicago's mission is to tell stories that stimulate our audience and celebrate our diverse community, enhancing our understanding of ourselves and others.

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