Kimberly Mark on the Perks, Quirks and Eye Rolls of Being Cabaret Star Alan Cumming's Dresser for 17 Years
(Photos: Caitlin McNaney)
The relationship between a dresser and an actor is an intimate one. When it clicks, many stars choose to work with their dressers repeatedly. Such is the case with Kimberly Mark and Alan Cumming. They were placed together on the 1998 revival of Cabaret and continued their relationship through 17 years and five Broadway shows, including the current revival, in which he is reprising his Tony-winning performance as the Emcee. Here, Mark offers a look at their bond.
What was your first impression of Alan?
The first few days we were together, I couldn't understand a word he said with his thick Scottish accent. He would come offstage and say something, and I would ask him to repeat himself twice. Luckily, on the third day or so I was magically able to understand him, so my first impression of him was that he talked funny, but he obviously had a lot of patience to keep repeating himself for me.
What's the wildest costume you've helped him with?
I suppose his Emcee harness, though now after so many years working with it, it's no big deal. It’s a fairly elaborate contraption, with many elastic straps that have to be exactly in the right place for it to fit properly, look right and be comfortable on him.
What's the best gift he's ever given you?
Just a couple months ago, he was able to keep me in the dark and throw me a surprise birthday party at the theater after the show one night. After telling me to follow him downstairs without asking any questions, he pushed me into the VIP lounge where the whole cast, crew, many dresser friends from other shows and even my husband and family were there yelling, “Surprise!” It's the only surprise party I've ever had.
What's something he says all the time?
Instead of goodbye he says,"Take care, brush your hair!"
What is something you do that makes him roll his eyes?
My eating habits. He's vegan and eats only super healthy foods; I primarily eat pizza, mac and cheese and Twinkies.
What's the secret to your relationship?
At this point I think the "secret" is that there are no secrets. We know pretty much everything about each other and are extremely comfortable around one another and find it comforting to have the other one around.
Back in 1998 when my Grandma Arline first saw Cabaret, she asked if he stuffed a potato in his pants. He was a bit insulted, so she searched the local farmers market and sent him a photo of herself holding a massive Idaho potato, which he loved and spoke of on several talk shows. This bonded their relationship and she now refers to him as one of her grandchildren.
What’s the best thing about being part of Team Cumming?
He entertains guests after each show. After each show, his dressing room transforms into Club Cumming, where I switch from dresser to bartender. I love getting to see his friends and family over and over. It’s like a mini-reunion each night. He has become family to me, and every day we spend together is full of fun, laughter and surprises.
