The story behind this month's most stylish play

Viva
Costume designer Elizabeth Whiting with actress Kate Elliott fitting her outfit for the play, Famous Flora, being shown at The White House. Photo / Babiche Martens.

WHO? Costume designer Elizabeth Whiting, here fitting actress Kate Elliott for her role in new play Famous Flora.

WHAT? Penned by Herald feature writer Elisabeth Easther, the play tells the story of Aucklander Flora Mackenzie, who went from high-end clothing designer to brothel proprietor in the 1940s with her boutique, Ninette Gowns, as the (rumoured) front. The Vulcan Lane salon was a top destination for hand-embroidered, Chinese-inspired evening gowns.

Whiting says: "Researching the costumes for Flora has been particularly interesting as some of her own designs still exist. As she was an Auckland personality, many people still remember her, so I have a duty to reference the real person in a heightened way."

WHERE? Showing at fittingly adult venue The White House, from November 14 - 29. Tickets from $32, buy yours here.

Share this article:

Featured