French Maid, Chicago Gangster, Drag Queen (Press, 27 September 1986)

The article, written by Gary Arthur, focuses on Barbara Mackenzie and her role in the costume hire department at the Court Theatre in Christchurch, New Zealand, which has been a profitable venture since its inception four years ago. Mackenzie serves as a talent scout and manager, meticulously searching for costumes suitable for various productions while also fulfilling the needs of costume hirers. She notes the challenge posed by the predominance of size 10 costumes, which often don't fit their larger customers. The Court Theatre’s wardrobe contains an extensive assortment of costumes that are reused or repurposed for different performances, with staff often altering existing pieces or using the fabric to create new outfits. The theatre's costume hire service was inspired by Auckland’s Mercury Theatre, which had found success in this area. Initially operating out of a less accessible space, the hiring service has since moved to a more suitable location in the basement of the Arts Centre. Mackenzie reveals that the department not only keeps a variety of historical costumes but also creates custom pieces to meet popular demands. An intriguing addition to their collection came from a transvestite who needed to sell her costume collection, providing the hire service with eye-catching outfits made from luxurious materials. The costumes are organised by era and style, catering to diverse themes sought after by hirers. Requests often include unique ideas such as cocktail-themed outfits or historical pairings, reflecting the creativity of those hiring the costumes. Christmas is identified as a peak season for hiring, particularly due to school parties where students spend significantly on costumes. Mackenzie also shares some humorous anecdotes about the hirers and their requests, illustrating the eccentric nature of some clients while emphasising the importance of discretion in her role. People from various backgrounds, including a local judge and a well-known singer, rent costumes for different occasions. While most customers are considerate, there are rare cases where items are not returned, prompting the need for higher deposits on expensive costumes. Overall, the article paints a picture of a vibrant costume hire service that not only supports theatrical productions but also brings joy to the community through creative dress-up opportunities. Mackenzie’s passion for costumes and her ability to manage the eclectic demands from hirers are highlighted as key elements of the department's success.

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