North Palm Beach Life

Dancer, Actor, Costume Designer - Pete Menefee Has Done It All

Three Primetime Emmy Awards to his credit, the incomparable Pete Menefee left dancing and acting by the age of 25 to pursue a career in costume design. In the ensuing years, Pete has designed with way too many performers and shows to easily recap.

In the early years he danced and played the unforgettable teen, Harvey Johnson, in the film “Bye Bye Birdie,” alongside the one-and-only, Ann Margret. He remains friends with Ms. Margret to this day. He can also be seen in another of her films, “Viva Las Vegas.” Then there was the film, Mary Poppins” where Pete danced as a Chimney Sweep. Immediately, he began work on another great film, “My Fair Lady.”

But, it is in the world of costume design where Pete Menefee is a true icon. It is easier to mention the superstars he has not worked with, than those he has. Shirley MacLaine, Charlie’s Angels, Liza, the Olympics, Ziegfried and Roy, the Rockettes. Then toss in acts such as KISS, Tina Turner and the Jackson’s to name just a few. You have seen his creations strutting on stages and screens from Las Vegas to Disney.

Personally, I have admired him for more years than I shall admit. What an honor to have him as my guest. Yes, Pete Menefee is a creator of magic . . . magic performers get to wear, and viewers get to admire. I believe in magic.