Looks of yesteryear on the stage

CHARACTERS: Latisha Batkins (in red) and Sarah McBeath prepare for the Butterfly Fairy Ball of friendship and flowers. PHOTO/PENELOPE COLEMAN

Classic garments part of show

Beautiful gowns, which might otherwise be dormant in museum displays, are brought to life in Judith Bell's theatrical extravaganza Butterflies of the Night.

Exquisite authentic garments sourced from all over the world will be the highlight of this production which is pegged as a multi-layered show incorporating theatre, song, music, dance, fashion and audio visuals.

It is essentially an international love story spanning decades and featuring stunning attire throughout the various eras.

A cast of 30 models, dancers and actors (with many more behind the scenes) are recreating a wardrobe department of a Parisian Cabaret called "Papillon".

It is centred around main character, a madame in her boudoir.

A steamstress unravels stories about beautiful garments from the past "in the weft and warp of the garments she touches".

Judith, who has been heavily involved in the Tarnished Frocks and Divas shows, says it is hard to place the production under any one genre.

But she does call it a form of "art history ... we are bringing these pieces to life".

The Classic Flyers is the perfect venue for their story.