Costume Society Guest Lecture: The History of Elaborate Fancy Dress Costumes
The Historical Costume Society welcomes Howard Vincent Kurtz, costume designer and professor emeritus, George Mason University, for a talk on the centuries-long history of elaborate costume parties. This presentation will explore the history of fancy dress costumes.
Registration is required for access to this Zoom event.
Dressing up in costume is nothing new. The tradition of wearing costumes or disguises of some sort to celebrate special occasions has long been a part of cultures throughout the world. For more than four hundred years, individuals have enjoyed dressing up and appearing at balls or parties in forms quite different from their everyday selves. Fancy dress balls were popular during the late 19th century and continued into the early 20th century.
Howard Vincent Kurtz has an extensive and diversified career in costumes, which has involved professional design, academic teaching, and as a fashion historian. He is Professor Emeritus of College of Visual and Performing Arts at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, where he served as the Resident Costume Designer and chair of the Design Tech program for 25 years.
Kurtz's previous work experience includes several years as a draper/pattern maker in New York City, creating costumes for Broadway, Hollywood films, and television. His designs have been seen at The Kennedy Center, Arena Stage, Orlando Shakes, Opera Orlando, and many other theaters along the East Coast. Howard was honored to receive the Helen Hayes Outstanding Costume Design Award in Washington, D.C.
Kurtz has authored national and international publications on fashion and lectures on topics related to historical dress. He is a member of the Costume Society of America, United States Institute of Theatre Technology, and United Scenic Artists, Local 829, Costume Division. He is currently designing the holiday production True North at Orlando Repertory Theatre. For more information, visit HVKurtz.com.
Bryn Mawr College welcomes the full participation of all individuals in all aspects of campus life. Should you wish to request a disability-related accommodation for this event, please contact the event sponsor/coordinator. Requests should be made as early as possible.