Threads producers put final touches on upcoming show
This weekend, Virginia graduate student Jennise Thurston will get to watch plans she has been working on since last May come to life.
Thurston, along with Portage junior Zack Stoner, are this year's producers of Threads, Central Michigan University's student-organized fashion show. Categories for the show include menswear, evening wear, casual wear, special occasion, children's wear, collections and avant-garde.
"Threads is possible only through the countless hours these students devote to the show," Thurston said. "In the spring, there is a Fashion Production and Promotion class, where students are placed into various committees with student directors overseeing their work."
Threads faculty adviser Michael Mamp has met weekly with the two producers since planning began. Mamp said he provides them with feedback and suggestions, which are implemented through a team enrolled in production and promotion class.
The Events Center will be packed with spectators, designers, models and photographers April 25 for this year's show. Before it could take place, the two producers had to send countless emails, edit photographs, coordinate models and raise money in ticket sales. This year, producers have also worked with a music composition student who created a soundtrack for the runway show.
“This is the first time Threads has had an original piece of music for the show,” Thurston said.
Along with the music, Stoner said designers have brought some unique pieces and concepts to this year's show.
“Everyone in the show this year has their own unique aesthetic and designs,” he said. “Threads is a juried show where students submit their garments to be judged by a blind panel of judges. Models are selected and fit to the garments prior to judging, and the best garments are selected to be featured in the show.”
In addition to the runway show, a mounted exhibit will showcase student's work with computer-aided design programs. Students involved in Threads will have the opportunity to win more than $2,000 in awards and prizes. The winners will be announced after the runway event.
Both producers said they hope Threads will give the student designers hands-on experience and an idea of how much work it takes to put a fashion show together. The show is a direct reflection of their hard work and dedication, and the audience should be able to tell, Thurston said.
"The designers in our program spend countless hours in the sewing lab working to bring their visions to life. It is such a rewarding experience to finally get to see your creations walk the runway,” Thurston said. “I also hope everyone can see just how great our merchandising and design program is here at Central. We have some really great faculty and this show represents all of their hard work as well.”
Tickets for Threads can be purchased through Ticket Central at the Events Center, online or by calling (989) 774-2045. Tickets can also be purchased at the door. All tickets cost $10.
