The Utah Symphony Blog

Tribute to Susan Memmott-Allred, Costume Designer Extraordinaire!

Today we’d like to wish a happy birthday to Susan Memmott-Allred, who has been with Utah Opera since our 1978! Over the years Sue has designed thousands of costumes that have been seen throughout the United States, and although she’s retiring from day-to-day responsibilities at Utah Opera, we hope she’ll still be with us as a guest designer for years to come!

Here are some great comments from some of the artists who have worked with Sue in the past. Please add your own memories of Sue and well-wishes in the comments!

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(click for larger version)

I wish I had photos.  But, when you mention Sue’s name, I just smile.  She has always been the consummate artist and colleague.  Passionate about her work and her details, she makes every singer feel like a king or queen.  Thanks Sue for all you have done for Utah Opera and the arts!  We will miss you.
- Daniel Belcher

I have had the privilege of working with the wonderful Sue Allred since my debut at Utah Opera in 2004.  I eagerly await my costume fittings at the beginning of the rehearsal process.  It’s always such a delight to see the beautiful designs I’ll be wearing, and of course, it’s been such a joy to spend that time with Sue.  She is one of the most kind, talented, and gracious designers I have ever known.  Thank you, Sue!
-Leah Wool, Mezzo-Soprano

Sue, I’m so sorry to hear that you’re retiring from Utah Opera. The four shows we did together were truly an artistic and personal delight for me. Your designs are beautiful, and you are a dream to work with. I will always cherish our work together, and I wish you continued fulfillment and joy in whatever you do. Thank you for being a very special colleague, and congratulations on all of the beautiful costumes you have designed. You have much to be proud of. You will be greatly missed. Affectionate best wishes to you!
- Stephanie Sundine

From our first project, H.M.S. Pinafore for the Deer Valley Music Festival in 2004 through our final project,  L’Italiana  in Algieri in 2009, Sue has created stunning, imaginative and stylish designs which not only enhanced, but became an integral part of every production we did together.  Sue brings joy and love  to every design and that authenticity shines through all she does. Working with Sue has been an honor and a pleasure.
- Patricia Weinmann

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by Symphony Gal
  • Ashley

    Happy Birthday, Sue! You are one amazing lady!

  • Randy Allred

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! While I may be accused of being just a bit prejudiced, I don’t think there will be any argument when I say that you are a rare talent with a unique blend of professional, artistic and people skills. In the immortal words of Carly Simon, “Nobody does it better”!

  • Carol Anderson

    Happy Birthday to you, dear Sue! Your smile and cheerful demeanor brightens every day at the office, and we will miss that. We look forward to seeing your gorgeous creations still, though! You are amazing in every way.

  • Julie McBeth

    Happy Birthday Susan! Your art is definitely a beautiful reflection of your personality. I wish you the best as you move into this new stage of life and look forward to seeing you and your work as often as possible!

  • Joanne Shiebler

    Dear Susan,
    Your creative genius has helped to put UO on the opera stage across the country. We will miss your day to day involvement but sincerely hope that you will grace our stages with works in the future. Thank you for your dedication to our company. Sincerely, Joanne Shiebler, Board of Trustees

  • Bob and Corinne

    We are so proud of you, Susan. We are also grateful to you for your goodness, talent, and love for all. We love you.
    Bob and Corinne

  • Rick VanNoy

    Susan! What a lovely article, and you look fabulous . . . I first met Susan when she was an “ektress” in No, No, Nanette at SUU, formerly, SUSC . . . I remember her wit and her charm, on stage and off. Retiring??? Impossible. We’ll put you to work in San Diego!

  • Karla Anderson Anzalone Clark

    I don’t know if you will remember me, but I sure do remember you. Not from the symphony, but from Jon Jon’s Chinese Cafe in good ‘ole St. George, Utah. You were the one who got me hooked on Roquefort salad dressing. I loved working with you at Ruth and Jon’s place. It’s awesome for me to see what you have done with your life and remember the good times we had together in our humble beginnings.

    Love you lady. Happy Birthday