To prepare for the show, Dorfman says she treated the project like an athlete would—with a heavy dose of training and practice behind the scenes. “It’s been the most stamina building and overall challenging artistic endeavor of my career,” says Dorfman. “So much changes in previews and in the rehearsal room to get ready for opening night, and I’m grateful for all the work we have put into the show.” Among the sequences that required the most rehearsing? “I love my fight sequences; I love playing with Gían Perez during our scenes in the first half of the show,” says Dorfman. “The release for The Nurse and finding new ways to explore grief and protecting Juliet is always really fun and exciting to play with day to day.”
Of course, half the fun of being in a Shakespeare play is also the distinct wardrobe. With original costumes by Enver Chakartash and hair and makeup by Robert Pickens and Katie Gell, Dorfman says one of her favorite parts of hitting the Broadway stage has been the creative costuming process. “Enver is a genius—an incredibly creative and smart costume designer,” says Dorfman. The star adds that they worked tirelessly on finding the right looks for both of her characters, making them feel individualistic while mirroring the modern feel of the show. “We had this idea to create a custom leather jacket for Tybalt with [moon] iconography from The High Priestess on the back to draw in some spirituality from the nurse,” says Dorfman. “I love how powerful I feel in the [looks], how fresh they were, and how fluid from character to character and moment to moment they are in the play.”
Just as intriguing were Dorfman’s own looks for the premiere and cast after-party last night, held at The Grill. The star worked with stylist Britt Theodora to find two designs that would shine for the occasions. First was the custom black Joe Ando gown with sheer detailing that Dorfman wore for the carpet. “We wanted to combine the past and present (as we do in this 400-year-old play, setting it in today’s world and climate),” says Dorfman. “His work with Ella Emhoff for the DNC was so strikingly beautiful, and felt fresh in a way that inspired Britt and me.” For the after-party, Dorfman kept the sheer motifs going in an embellished mesh Bode number—where she and her cast mates celebrated the night away. Dorfman reflected on the performances ahead. “I hope [the audience] feels invigorated to hold their loved ones closer.”
Below, see how Dorfman got ready for the opening.
