Matthew Torbett

Costume Technician

2026, he/him MFA, Costume Production

Matthew Torbett is a costume professional whose passion lies in creating masterpieces for the performing arts, whether it’s his hands making a custom garment or facilitating the development of a production through exceptional management skills. Coming from a background as a musical theatre performer, his love for the arts runs extremely deep and bolsters his ambition and work ethic.

As a manager, he has worked regionally leading the costume departments of Williamstown Theatre Festival and Barrington Stage Company, facilitating a smooth process for build, wardrobe, and hair and makeup teams to create spectacular full-scale productions on limited timelines. Additionally, his management skills led him to work as the Costume Department Coordinator on Dead Outlaw and John Proctor is the Villain in 2025, both designed by Sarah Laux.

As a maker, Matthew has worked in multiple shops producing for Broadway, regional, film and TV, including as a First Hand/Junior Draper at Bethany Joy Costumes in 2024. He also has had the opportunity to drape and create garments for celebrities such as Pamela Anderson (Camino Real, Williamstown Theatre Festival 2025) and Mariah Carey (Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2022). His primary expertise is in corsetry and womenswear of the 1870s-1950s, but he also has a love for traditional men’ s tailoring.

Work Samples

Camino Real

By Tennessee Williams
Directed By Dustin Wills
Costume Design by Oana Botez
Gown and undergarment draped by Matthew Torbett
For Pamela Anderson
Williamstown Theatre Festival – July 2025

Tailoring II

1920s Jazz Suit Jacket
Class taught by Prof. Hugh Hanson
Drafted and constructed by Matthew Torbett
CMU, Spring 2023

Advanced Artisan Draping

1890s Corset and Bodice
Class taught by Prof. Hugh Hanson
Drafted and constructed by Matthew Torbett
CMU, Spring 2022