MY STORY

From a young age, theatre and the environment have been my twin passions. Throughout my life, I have had the amazing experience of living in five different countries, an adventure that fostered my love for slow travel and deepened my curiosity about the world. This constant change of scenery ignited my enduring love for the exploration and the outdoors, shaping both my personal and professional ethos.

I pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Victoria, followed by a Master of Arts in Theatre from Mountview Academy. My design training includes George Brown College in Toronto to the LeMark Institute in Mumbai, and finally, the London College of Fashion. Each institution provided a unique perspective and set of skills that enriched my understanding of design.

Alongside my design studies, I began my career as a performer and dancer, followed by many projects as a production manager. This diverse background has given me a well-rounded understanding of how set and costume design support storytelling and enhance narrative but also support performers and other creatives to excel in their work as part of the collaborative nature of theatre production.

Jennifer Taillefer, an eco-friendly theatre set designer.
Sketch book ideas for theatre set design.
Costume design sketch book example.
Sketch book examples by Jennifer Taillefer.

My work is deeply inspired by Zoe Svendsen and Clare Slater's pioneering efforts in Climate Dramaturgy. Their approach to theatre in the context of the climate emergency resonates with my commitment to tell stories that inspire, provoke thought, and encourage audiences to imagine a future where humans are an integral part of the Earth's ecosystem, rather than separate from it.

In all my projects, I adhere to the principles outlined in the Theatre Green Book. Whether I am designing theatre sets, creating imaginative headwear, or engaging with the arts community to promote sustainable practices, my goal is to embed sustainable thinking into every aspect of my work.

My millinery creations are particularly influenced by nature, dreams, and mythology. I love to make hats that surprise with viewer with unusual elements and unexpected or hidden details, blending the curious with the natural with the elemental.

Through all my work, I hope to inspire others to see the beauty in our world and to join in the effort to preserve it for future generations. By merging my love of theatre with my commitment to environmentalism, I aim to create art that not only entertains but also inspires change.

Example from my costume design sketch book.
Examples of my costume designs from my sketch book.
Sketch book examples by Jennifer Taillefer.