Costume lovers, this one is for you: the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry just announced “Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell,” the first exhibition ever dedicated to visionary costume designer Paul Tazewell, opening January 19, 2026.
Visitors will get an up-close look at some of the most iconic looks in recent film and stage history, from Glinda’s famous pink bubble dress and the Emerald dress in Wicked to Janelle Monáe’s dazzling MET Gala ensembles, Anita’s dresses from Spielberg’s West Side Story, and the show-stopping Hamilton costumes worn by the Schuyler Sisters, Hamilton, Jefferson, Burr and King George III.
Tazewell made history as the first Black man to win the Academy Award for Best Costume Design for Wicked, and his trophy shelf also holds Tony Awards for Hamilton and Death Becomes Her plus an Emmy for The Wiz! Live. The exhibition will be presented in the museum’s brand-new immersive Griffin Studio space and is included with general admission.
“If you can see it, you can be it,” said museum president Dr. Chevy Humphrey — and this sparkling celebration of creativity at 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive is sure to inspire Chicago’s next generation of designers.
Photo: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
