Fresh Air ‘Wicked’ Costume Designer Paul Tazewell
Dec 1, 2025
Paul Tazewell, an award-winning costume designer known for his groundbreaking work on projects like Hamilton and Wicked, shares his journey from aspiring performer to celebrated designer. He discusses his historic Oscar win and the profound impact it had on his career. Tazewell delves into the inspiration behind Glinda and Elphaba's costumes, highlighting the significance of color and character expression. He reflects on the nuances of casting and racial dynamics, and shares heartwarming memories of learning to sew from his mother, linking family creativity to his artistic vision.
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Costumes Tell A Character's Unspoken Story
- Paul Tazewell sees costume design as silent storytelling that reveals character through clothing choices and texture.
- He uses weathering, silhouette, and fabric to signal Elphaba's exile and evolving power in Wicked for Good.
Design With The Character Arc In Mind
- Design characters from beginning to end so costumes remain consistent across an entire story arc.
- Build a cohesive world by defining distinct silhouettes, textures, and bespoke garments for each group.
Casting Drives Costume Function And Meaning
- Casting shaped wardrobe: Cynthia Erivo's athletic presence led Tazewell to outfit Elphaba in trousers for mobility and power.
- He linked Elphaba's black palette to mourning and emotional separation in her backstory.
