Firebird Costumes- Part 1

Since the ballet's 1949 premier, there have been not 1, nor 2, but 10 iterations of the costume for the ballet's lead. Interestingly, the costumes for all other roles appear to be the same over time.

1949- Maria Tallchief

• “V” shaped bodice with feathered straps

• Shorter, more donut-like tutu

• Tall, full headpiece

  1958- Melissa Hayden

  

• About the same, minus some ruffles on the straps

1959- Patte Wilde

• This is the only photo I can find of this costume- Wilde is also seen in a unique in 1963 (Might be photo quality)

  1963- Patte Wilde

  

1963- Violette Verdy

• New headpiece style

• Flatter tutu shape

1964- Maria Tallchief

• Costumes appeared in 1963 performance pictures w/ Tallchief

• Most pancake-like tutu yet

• Taller, straighter feather

  1965- Melissa Hayden

1966- Patricia Neary

• red tights and shoes

1966- Tallchief (In 63-64 costumes)

1968- Melissa Hayden with a new hairpiece, 1966 costumes