Nashville Opera has partnered with Associate Professor Jessica Mueller, director of the University’s BFA production design program, to bring culturally informed costume design and hands-on professional training to its upcoming production of “The Girl of the Golden West.”
Mueller is designing the production’s costumes while mentoring students and recent alumni who work alongside Nashville Opera’s professional artistic team and assist with fittings, sourcing, documentation and backstage coordination.
This marks Mueller’s fourth collaboration with Nashville Opera and her most personal to date.
“I felt like I’d been preparing for this show my whole life,” Mueller said. “I grew up watching westerns and spending summers on my great-grandfather’s horse ranch in Kansas. To tell the story of a strong woman in a harsh world, a woman who ultimately saves the day, is incredibly meaningful to me.”
Set during the California Gold Rush, “The Girl of the Golden West” centers on Minnie, a saloon owner whose strength, compassion and moral leadership shape the fate of a frontier mining community. The opera blends romance, danger and survival while exploring themes of justice, loyalty and redemption.
Mueller’s costume design draws on extensive historical and cultural research, particularly in the portrayal of Billy Jackrabbit and Wowkle. Rather than relying on traditional stereotypes, Mueller researched Northern California’s Indigenous history and focused on Miwok material culture to inform her designs.
“For characters of cultures not my own, I start with humility and research,” Mueller said. “I want the costumes to support the story honestly while adding depth and authenticity for the audience.”
Her research influenced silhouettes, accessories and materials, including jewelry purchased directly from Miwok artists to ensure cultural accuracy while supporting Indigenous creators.
Beyond the design work, the production serves as a professional training ground for emerging artists. Belmont students and recent alumni work inside a full-scale opera production, building portfolios, resumes and industry connections while learning the pace and expectations of professional performing arts organizations.
“At Belmont, we are working artists,” Mueller said. “Our students see us on the job, building partnerships and creating real work. When they step into these productions, they gain experience, confidence and connections that help launch their careers.”
Grace McGovern, a 2023 graduate of Belmont's Motion Pictures Production program, is working with Mueller on the show as the assistant costume designer.
“It is my first professional job post-grad and going from a creative setting of all peers to a professional environment has been an adjustment, but having Jessica as my mentor and now boss has made the transition much smoother,” she said. “I’m very lucky to have someone who cares about my success and is generous enough to give me the chance to show what I can do.”
The partnership reflects Nashville Opera’s commitment to mentorship and partnership with local universities to prepare students for creative careers while contributing to Nashville’s cultural economy.
“Jessica’s attention to detail and creative eye bring so much to our productions,” said John Hoomes, Nashville Opera CEO and artistic director. “The Nashville Opera loves utilizing the great talent in our community, and we are proud to continue our partnership with Belmont and their extremely accomplished arts departments.”
Girl of the Golden West
Jan. 22 and 24 | 7:30 p.m.
Fisher Center for the Performing Arts
Tickets at www.NashvilleOpera.org/GoldGirl
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