Lancaster, Ohio, native Randall Thropp worked as a stylist and production designer in New York City before heading to Los Angeles in 1990, where he quickly established a career as a costume supervisor and assistant designer for production companies such as NBC, ABC, CBS, HBO, Fox and Paramount.
In 2003, Randall joined Paramount Pictures, and since 2007, when Paramount established a costume archive, Randall has been the manager of the Paramount Pictures Costume & Prop Archive, overseeing more than 28,000 costume pieces and 12,500 jewelry items. The Paramount archive has provided exhibition materials for museums and galleries worldwide.
Randall prides himself on his passion for Hollywood history and preservation. “Since I can remember, I was fascinated with all things historical – especially Hollywood. My uncle worked for Warner Brothers Theaters, and whenever I visited, he always had some sort of memorabilia to give me. Both my mother and aunt were also huge film fans.” In addition, Russell credits his teachers at Lancaster High School (Loran Peterson, theater, and Jeff Unger, music) and Ohio University Lancaster (Jeff Wagner, theater) for inspiring his career choice.
For young people looking to enter the film industry, Randall has sage advice. “Get involved with live theater – high school, community or university – and it will ignite your passion for an area you want to concentrate on,” he said. “College film programs are always looking for actors and crew members. The best thing about that is that your work will be recorded and can be a great tool to build a resume.
“If you’re considering a career as a historian or archivist, most archivists have a degree in library science. However, several universities and institutions now offer courses in archival studies. The playing field is different than it was 10 years ago. I fell into my position because of my knowledge of costuming and Hollywood history,” he noted.
“If a young person wants to be involved in the film industry, make your own videos, volunteer for a student film – discover what sparks that flame! Hollywood is not an easy place to be gainfully employed. If a young person is lucky enough to be employed or become an intern, I always tell them, be alert, be prompt and pay attention to every detail. Coming to Hollywood and being star-struck will not get you far. It is a business and requires a lot of hard work and long hours,” Randall concluded.
The Star Trek exhibit at DACO (see facing page) is not Randall’s first exhibition back home. In the past, he brought two Edith Head exhibitions and an exhibition featuring more modern costumes to DACO, attracting attendees from Pittsburgh, Chicago, Cincinnati and Canada. “The Paramount archive team refers to DACO as my laboratory,” Randall said. “I enjoy bringing special things to people who can’t always travel. DACO is most definitely the gem of Central Ohio.”