TYING IT ALL TOGETHER: MACRAMÉ IN 8-TRACK

When you think of the ’70s, a lot of things probably come to mind: bell-bottom jeans, groovy tunes, and of course, macramé. This art form, which was all the rage during that era, plays a big role in the set design of 8-Track: The Sounds of the ‘70s, Broadway Rose’s first show of our 2025 season. But what’s the connection between macramé and the show, and how did this intricate craft come to life on stage?

The set for 8-Track is more than just a backdrop; it’s a piece of living history. The vision for the set was created by Tyler Buswell, who last designed the set for Sh-Boom!, another show that took us back a few decades. The 1970s were a time period where things were bold, colorful, and full of texture. So, what better way to capture the essence of that era than with macramé?

If you’re unfamiliar, macramé is the art of knotting fibers or cords to create intricate designs, often seen in plant hangers, wall décor, or even furniture. Once Tyler brought the idea to the production team at Broadway Rose, the task was turned over to Resident Assistant Technical Director Alex Agnes-Cordry, who made it happen.

Alex didn’t just figure out how to do the macramé—he became the master of it. From hand-drawing detailed diagrams to teaching a team of staff and volunteers how to knot and weave, Alex was the backbone of this creative endeavor. Imagine the scene: a group of enthusiastic, but perhaps somewhat unskilled, staff members gathering around Alex as he patiently walked them through each knot and technique. It wasn’t just about getting the ropes to look good—it was about making sure the entire process felt like a team effort.

Macramé had a massive resurgence in the 1970s, becoming synonymous with the era’s hippie aesthetic. It was a time of free expression, earthy tones, and handmade, DIY culture. Its popularity was also tied to the broader cultural movements of the time—back-to-nature, anti-consumerism, and a yearning for self-expression. That’s why it fits so perfectly into the world of 8-Track, which is all about celebrating the spirit of the 1970s.

Looking at the finished product of 8-Track’s set, we can’t help but feel a sense of excitement and pride. It’s not just a set—it’s a labor of love, a collaboration of vision and skill, and a celebration of one of the most iconic design trends of the 1970s. We can’t wait for you to see it come to life on stage!

Learn more about 8-Track here. There’s only a few seats left, get your tickets today!