Executing a collaborative, carefully crafted plan to near perfection is deeply satisfying. Greg Addison, who recently combined his passion for fashion and art into a full-scale visual experience at the Jefferson Center, knows exactly what that feels like.
“When people purchase a ticket to something that I put on, it is important that their expectations are exceeded. Pushing the boundaries of fashion and art is something I take tremendous pride in,” he said.
So much more than simply a runway show, Emerald City: Where Theater Meets Fashion was a cultural production that celebrated storytelling, diversity and community. Addison partnered with Blacks in Technology (BIT) Foundation to bring the concept to life.
“This jaw-dropping production takes guests on a cinematic journey through heart-stirring storytelling, immersive visuals, powerful music, and custom ready-to-wear collections designed to command attention,” the press release said.
Added Addison, “The show featured several unique, one-of-a-kind designs from some incredibly talented individuals. We were thrilled to bring our show to the Shaftman Performance Hall. The audience experienced a stellar evening out.”
Planning for the Aug. 1 event began months ago. Due to its popularity, tickets were expected to sell out quickly. Within days of appearing on the website, a sizeable percentage had already been purchased.
The tone of the evening was set when Mayor Joe Cobb and Sheriff Antonio Hash made a cameo appearance in the film, which was inspired by The Wiz.
Each of the models walked with an extraordinary amount of radiant energy and confidence. Among them were Amori Addison, Tami Amos, Simone Bryant, Myla Green, Chwanda Mclaughlin, Rhiana Roper, Kierra Tucker and Eric Williams.
Addison says he relied on his longstanding relationships to help secure top talent. He also credited the participants for having faith in his vision.
“The last year hasn’t been easy. Between personal battles and recovering from two hip replacements, things have been hard. When Greg first asked me, I told him I wasn’t sure. When he asked again, my mindset changed,” Williams said. “I proved to myself that excuses don’t build confidence, discipline does. The biggest win wasn’t stepping on stage. It was proving to myself that I could still challenge myself.”
One of the Roanoke Valley’s fashion flagship events, every aspect of the production was intentional and extraordinary.
“I’m so grateful to Greg for trusting us with this opportunity and allowing us to become part of his beautifully executed vision,” Doug Pitzer, President of the BIT Foundation, said. “This experience showed what happens when technology meets theater. When lights, sound, video, and creativity come together in service of one thing: the story.”
After the fashion show, an after party, to which hundreds attended, was held at Kirk and Soul in downtown Roanoke.
Emerald City: Where Theater Meets Fashion had nine sponsors: The Lupus Realtor, Eric Williams, RFW Infinite, Joyce Watkins, Stephanie Moon-Reynolds, Affordable Dentures & Implants, Jes Real Estate, Diane Speaks and Dr. E. Wayne Harris.
The level of diverse representation on such a unique platform was a beautiful reminder that creative beauty comes in all sizes and shapes.
