by FilmInk Staff
The Kiama Icons and Artists Association is proud to announce that renowned Australian director Gillian Armstrong will be attending the Orry-Kelly Dressing Hollywood Gala on 26 July in Kiama.
Gillian Armstrong is internationally recognised for her celebrated films including My Brilliant Career (1979), Little Women (1994), Charlotte Gray (2001) and Women He’s Undressed (2015), a critically acclaimed documentary exploring the life of Orry-Kelly – the Kiama-born costume designer who became a Hollywood legend.
Orry-Kelly won three Academy Awards and contributed to over 300 Hollywood films, working with icons such as Marilyn Monroe, Bette Davis, Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn.
The gala will not only honour his incredible achievements, but also mark the 10-year anniversary of Armstrong’s documentary, which brought his story to a new generation.
Joining Armstrong on the night will be esteemed guests Damien Parer (film producer) and Katherine Thomson (screenwriter), who will reflect on Orry-Kelly’s legacy and their involvement in the documentary.
“This man deserves to be known in his own country,” Armstrong told SBS at the time of the documentary’s release. “The original premise was simple: ‘How did this person from nowhere make it in Hollywood?’ but we found out so much more.”
In the lead-up to the gala, the Kiama Icons and Artists Association held a special screening of Women He’s Undressed at the Joyce Wheatley Community Centre on 22 May. The event was met with great enthusiasm.
“Over 60 wonderful people joined us for an unforgettable screening,” said Catherine Menzies, Founder of the Association.
“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we couldn’t be happier to see so much interest in Orry-Kelly’s incredible Hollywood journey. From dazzling costumes to fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, his legacy continues to inspire.”
The Orry-Kelly Dressing Hollywood Gala will be a unique celebration of film, fashion, and local history, shining a spotlight on one of Kiama’s most accomplished sons.
Event Details:
● Date: Saturday, 26th July 2025
● Venue: The Sebel, Kiama
● Exclusive Exhibition Access: 5:00 PM
● Gala Commencement: 6:00 PM
● Ticket Price: $115 per person, which includes entry to the exhibition, a welcome beverage, and canapés.
To secure your tickets, follow this link to the TryBooking platform: Orry-Kelly Dressing Hollywood Gala Tickets.
