Commemoration Day Speaker announced - Janet Hine (Class of 1979) Award Winning Costume Designer

We are excited to announce Old Girl and award-winning costume designer, Janet Hine (Class of 1979) will address the audience at our upcoming Commemeration Day ceremony on Friday 7 October.

Janet hails from a long-standing Somerville House family which became the school's first ever fourth-generation family when her nephew Russell Hine attended kindy in 1980. Janet's grandmother Winifred Gordon/Gough (class of 1922) and great-aunt Doris Gordon (class of 1920) were the first to attend the school and in 1959 Winifred Gough became the first President of the Old Girls' Associations who wasn't a school principal. Janet's mother Judith Gough/Hine (class of 1944) attended during World War 2 when the school was based in Stanthorpe and sisters Christine Hine (class of 1970) Margaret Hine (class of 1975) and Lesley Hine (class of 1980) are also past students.

With an illustrious design career spanning almost three decades, Janet was recently the Design Associate for Frozen the Musical in Australia, as well as Moulin Rouge which is currently playing in Sydney. Janet's designs have been showcased around the world not only on stage in theatrical productions, but also on television.

We recently caught up with Janet to learn about her fascinating career and look forward to hearing more about her journey in October.

What are your memorable experiences from Somerville House?

I loved being part of the Somerville House community. It was a very informative experience surrounded by so many different personalities. I had the best friends ever and we shared so much fun and laughter. My favourite days were swimming carnival and sports day coming home with no voice from screaming war cries!

Top row from left; Jane Remington, Felicity Doessel, Joel Ogilvie, Elizabeth Pidgeon; Bottom row from left; Sue Hudson and Janet Hine

What was the pathway into your career?

My journey into Costume Design was an organic one. I did not feel creative at school so never imagined I’d end up in such a creative world. My family was very crafty so my three sisters and I grew up learning sewing, embroidery, millinery, dyeing etc which now are all part of my everyday life at work. I did not have clear direction when leaving school so ended up working in a pharmacy where I did several makeup courses which peaked my interest. I studied makeup further then landed a job at Expo 88 in charge of the international artists on the river stage looking after their makeup and costumes. I established great relationships with performers at Expo and was offered positions in theatre in Sydney. I really fell into this career at that moment.

I headed off to a new adventure and a life touring Australia in musical theatre which I absolutely loved. I worked my way up to become a costume supervisor and started touring overseas as well which was a dream.

As my confidence grew I gained lots of experience and created a niche in Dance costume design and worked across large events like Commonwealth Games ceremonies , TV series So you think You Can Dance and styled some rock stars on the Aria awards. I created my Design company nine years ago and was asked to design uniforms for QT hotel chain which was a new direction. I loved doing this for seven years however theatre is really my passion and what I mostly choose to do.

How have you overcome obstacles you have faced?

I've had many surreal moments dressing Presidents, Popstars and Princes. When dealing with people on such a personal level, there's always crazy moments whether its live television or an event anything can happen - and it does. I always believe keeping a positive attitude and ability to bring calm to chaos have been my most effective tools when dealing with unexpected obstacles.

I always really felt a sense of community at Somerville and being a third generation student really elevated that experience. I felt a responsibility to maintain a high level of integrity and value those around me which has carried through to my work life. I believe school gave me a good education learning to deal with different personalities which has really assisted me throughout my career.

How did you come across the Frozen / Moulin Rouge opportunity?

The Australian theatre industry is quite small and I've been lucky to have great opportunities working for some of the top producers like Disney and Global Creatures. I’ve worked for Disney for more than eight years on Aladdin and Frozen touring Australia and Asia. My Moulin Rouge experience has been incredible and our Australian team are currently manufacturing all the female cast costumes for this show globally. We are currently doing fittings for Germany and Korea which is exciting.

What are your most memorable achievements?

Career highlights were nomination for a Helpmann award for Hairspray the musical and working on more than eight Broadway shows designing for over 6000 cast for the Asian games in Qatar was a unique experience.

What advice would you give to others looking at pursuing a career in the Arts?

I'd suggest keeping an open mind and grab any jobs opportunity you can before deciding on the best one that suits your lifestyle. The idea of something is often quite different to the reality of the job. Reflecting on my early career some jobs seemed boring however everyone was a stepping stone to where I am now.

Future goals?

I would love the opportunity to design an original Australian show that travels to Broadway or a Las Vegas show with an unlimited budget.

Please join us on Friday 7 October at 11.30am to hear more about Janet's fascinating life story. To register your attendance CLICK HERE. RSVP due by 5th October, 2022.