Michael Alan Stein
October 3, 1959 - June 28, 2021
Michael Alan Stein died on June 28, 2021. Stein was an award-winning costume designer, whose professional journey began at Parsons School of Design and The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, where he studied Clothing Design. His career spanned more than two decades, and his work has graced many of this nation’s premiere stages, including: The Guthrie Theatre, The Goodman Theatre, and The Kennedy Center for The Performing Arts. Due to his unique versatility, his design skills spanned theatre, film, and television - all seamlessly. Michael was commissioned to design projects ranging from Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd, to restaurant uniform design. Michael branded every project with his distinct sensibility, striking silhouettes, vibrant use of color and a signature design aesthetic. “My purpose, through character development, is to tell the stories of the people I encounter. My goal is to give form and function that is authentic to their situations, through their respective wardrobe choices.” Michael Alan Stein Stein was a sought-after lecturer, and on the advisory board for the School of Fine Arts at Dominican University. He is the recipient of a Fellowship from The National Endowment for The Arts as well as a Joseph Jefferson Citation for Outstanding Achievement in Costume Design. His original sketch and design for world-renowned artist and photographer Renee Cox’s RAJÉ (RAGE!) superhero character are placed in the permanent collection of Archives of American Art at the Smithsonian Institution. After many years at the forefront of costume design, he became Principal Designer of his own clothing line: The Michael Alan Stein Collection. Michael is survived by friends, family and his family in the theater world. “Your garments were exquisite. I will miss your laughter and that look you gave when someone hit that last nerve. May you Rest in Power.” “Michael designed Costumes, Hair & Makeup for Northlight Theatre’s “Nina Simone: Four Women”. Michael was lively, passionate, and committed to his art. He knew what he wanted, but was open to collaboration. Rest in power Michael. You will be missed.” “I loved me some Michael Alan Stein. He faced so many adversities, but never stopped smiling. He loved his craft so much he never stopped grinding.” “Michael was always there when you needed him. He was a busy guy, but whenever you needed him - he was there. He never turned you down. He would always find a way to get a project completed. And completed beautifully.” |