An Interview With Michael Siewert
(Friday July 27th 2007)

Conducted by Aaron Pacentine of, VideosForFamily.com



 

Michael Sewert has delighted audiences for many years by publicly displaying many of Judy Garland's dresses and gowns from a number of her films. Michael actually began collecting when he was just 6 years old and became a big fan of Judy Garland and her work after watching, 1939 classic, "THE WIZARD OF OZ".  As the years went by and he became an adult he has had the opportunity to buy and then publicly display many of Judy's dresses and gowns that she wore on many of her films. He has already met with Liza Minnelli privately and also Lorna, Sid and Joey Luft. Michael even got to meet with Mickey Deans (Judy's final/last husband). Michael says.... 'My collection has opened some marvelous doors...some good, and some not so good. Nevertheless, all of those experiences have enriched my collecting. Sometimes, when I am not so impressed with what I see behind 'closed doors,' with peers, family or fans of Judy's, I wish I was a 'normal' collector again, not being privy to some of the negativity. That is one reason why I love to work in Chesterton. I have never met such a group of caring, inspired and downright good people. I love to come every year and to share with Garland and Oz fans alike, the collection; Judy Garland, The Dressing Of A Legend. I do many exhibits around the country every year, but Chesterton is my most favorite. I have met so many wonderful Garland fans over the years.' Linda Hershman, a young girl of twelve, comes with her family every year from their farm in Columbia City, Indiana to see Michael and the Judy Garland collection. 'I met Linda and her family many years ago, and I am honored that they come to see me every year. They even brought grandma one year! The Garland fans can range from young people to the elderly alike. Judy Garland and her talents have reached them all.'  I think that is very well put. In this interview Michael talks about the exhibits and the great feedback that people have enjoyed over the time that he has put his shows on for the fans. Thanks for doing the interview and looking forward to do more work w/ you in the future! This photo was taken of Aaron Pacentine and Michael at the Wizard of Oz Festival in Valpraiso, Indiana in 2006.

 

 

 

MP3 Interview With Michael Siewert  (17:32)