Akron Beacon Journal: Akron native Paul Tazewell talks about world of 'Wicked,' inspirations for costume designs

Paul Tazewell's sketch of Elphaba's iconic costume in the movie "Wicked." Courtesy of Paul Tazewell.

One-and-a-half years working on the spectacular costumes for the "Wicked" movie was a labor of love for designer Paul Tazewell, an Akron native.

He spent much of that time in London, where part one of the movie was filmed in nearby Borehamwood, England. The film, whose part two was filmed at the same time, was nominated Thursday for 10 Oscar awards, including one for costume design by Tazewell.

The designer, 60, is a 1982 Buchtel High School graduate and winner of a 2016 Tony Award for the musical "Hamilton" and an Emmy the same year for "The Wiz Live!" on NBC.

Now, the Academy Award nominations are bringing about plenty of buzz that Tazewell may win his first Oscar. He was previously nominated for a 2022 Oscar for Steven Spielberg's "West Side Story."

Read the full story here: https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/entertainment/arts/2025/01/28/paul-tazewell-oscar-nominated-costume-designer-wicked-movie-akron-native/77971104007/