For Immediate Release:
Behind the Tie Dye: Karissa Noonan Brings Color to Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville
ABT’s Assistant Stage Manager adds personal touch to costumes with tie dye creations
PEORIA, Arizona, March 30 — The wardrobe for Arizona Broadway Theatre’s (ABT) Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville got a personal touch, as the costume department called on assistant stage manager, Karissa Noonan, to put her tie dye skills to work. Aside from putting in countless hours as ABT’s assistant stage manager, Karissa runs her own small business, “Peace, Love, Tie Dye”, where she sells her colorful creations.
ABT’s Costume Director, Dr. Heather Striebel, approached Karissa and asked her to craft tropical designs that reflect the traits and characteristics of each Escape to Margaritaville character. The product of this partnership can be seen in Tammy’s bathing suit cover-up, JD’s t-shirts, Jamal’s shirts, and other ensemble costumes.
“I’m extremely proud to see my work on stage.” Karissa said. “It’s always fun to hear that an actor loves one of their costumes, but it’s extra fun to know that I had a hand in making it.”
Karissa has been working with Arizona Broadway Theatre since 2016 when she started as a server during Funny Girl. While pursuing her undergrad in Choral Music Education from NAU, Karissa found a special affinity for tie-dye and has been artfully staining clothing ever since. Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville is the first time the stage manager got to see her works on stage.
Her role with the costume department has given her the opportunity to express a more artistic side, as she primarily works behind-the-scenes on a technical level to make sure productions run smoothly. Karissa’s chance to show off her designs emulates Arizona Broadway Theatre’s workforce that encourages community and collaboration.
“Theatre is truly one of the most collaborative art forms that we get to experience.” Says Karissa. “There are so many creative and capable minds involved in making the magic that is a stage production. Seeing every step of that process and then participating in the final product is incredible.”
Karissa’s time at Arizona Broadway Theatre has helped her flourish in both her artistic and professional endeavors. Like Karissa, many employees who start as servers or Box Office attendants are interested in theatre and getting involved in the performing arts. With the opportunities at ABT, she was able to jumpstart into her career and become a pivotal part of the stage management team.
Arizona Broadway Theatre hopes to continue being a positive environment for those with an interest in theatre like Karissa. With this mission, ABT encourages all of its employees, no matter what role they serve, to seek opportunities within the theatre and embark on opportunities that will further them in their careers.
“Working at ABT has helped me to find myself. My job requires quick problem solving and nothing improves your self-efficacy like successfully repairing an electrical issue (with very little prior knowledge) at ten minutes to places (no pressure) to make sure that the headlight of a motorcycle (a major plot point) functions during the show.” Karissa says. “It’s also impossible to tell these timeless stories and listen to beautiful or catchy musical numbers without relating to a character or situation and learning about yourself.”
Karissa’s work can be seen on stage in ABT’s Escape to Margaritaville until April 16. She will be teaching her techniques to children in this year’s 𝘍𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘕𝘦𝘮𝘰 summer camp. You can visit her website www.peacelovetiedye.com to learn more about Karissa and her work.
Media Contacts
McKenzie Wurtz, Communications Coordinator, mckenzie@azbroadway.org
Michele A. Meyer, Director of Marketing & Communications
michele@azbroadway.org or 480.601.3692
ABOUT ARIZONA BROADWAY THEATRE (“ABT”)
ABT Performing Arts Association, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and Arizona’s one-of-a-kind, award winning, state-of-the-art professional theatre showcasing locally and nationally acclaimed artists and providing palate-pleasing sit-down table service prepared fresh daily to accompany the award-winning on-stage fare. With one reservation, patrons enjoy a whole night’s entertainment without rushing around the Phoenix sprawl. Support from the community sustains professional musical theatre produced in the Northwest Valley. It also allows ABT to create and deliver youth programming that educates and engages students across metropolitan Phoenix. Arizona Broadway Theatre’s season is proudly sponsored by Arrowhead Cadillac. azbroadway.or
