How do quick-change artists change so fast?

Answer 1

They have assistants to help and clothing that is modified to remove quickly while standing up arranged so the openings are not evident in the scene being done (e.g. in back and the scene is played from the front or on one side) Accessories that would normally be put on separately are sewn to the costumes - scarves, ties, handkerchiefs. Depending on what is being done, some clothing in the quick changes is not removed, but is covered up and revealed (like pants under a dress.) If you have a DVD of one performing, you will sometimes see hands reaching for removing stuff before the quick change guy/gal is completely off stage or still holding stuff as they come on. You may also notice the artist starting to remove stuff upstage before completely off stage.