Mary Seigel
Mary Seigel
Class Year
’21
Current home
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Major(s)
Theatre Performance and Costume Design
Current Position
Costume Technician at Miller and Campbell Costume Services
As a costume technician at Miller and Campbell Costume Services, Mary Seigel ’21 pulls and alters costumes for productions across the country, and helps run the company’s vintage store. She is also a freelance designer and actor, as well as a beginning producer and director.
Ms. Seigel has been involved in several films and theatre productions in the Milwaukee area and beyond. Most recently, she started a small theatre company called Placeholder Players, in which members participate in elevated staged readings.
What have you enjoyed most about your career?
“I love the variety and excitement that comes with every new project. I spend every day creating and doing the things I have loved all my life.”
How did Carthage prepare you?
“While at Carthage, I did more than the work required by my major. I worked in the scene shop, and learned about directing and the business aspects of theatre. Being introduced to these things has been vital in keeping me employed in the industry. Being a versatile and flexible worker is invaluable. It has also allowed me to have the knowledge to create my own work, which was a concept we were often reminded of as Carthage students.”
Why did you choose Carthage?
“I chose Carthage because of the opportunities to be involved from day one, as well as the small class sizes that allow for plenty of individual attention for all students. Carthage’s Theatre Department offers unique opportunities such as the New Play Initiative and the chance to perform at international venues.”
What Carthage professors played a part in your success and how?
“Professor Kim Instenes played a major part in setting me up for success. I still use the templates she so graciously shared with me for my costume paperwork! She also taught me all of the things I needed to know in order to run the costumes in a production as smoothly as possible and how to not lose your mind in the process.”
What's your favorite Carthage memory?
“I will always remember traveling to Scotland with the cast of “Up and Away” and putting on full-scale productions in the middle of a pandemic!”
Tips for current Carthage students?
“Do everything! You never know what new skill you may fall in love with.”