Karel Shook, Cicely Tyson and Zelda Wynn.

In the early 1970’s with larger facilities, the number and variety of classes offered at DTH increased considerably. In addition to ballet, DTH offered modern, ethnic, jazz, tap, acting, music appreciation, theory, percussion, sewing and tailoring. Apprenticeships were offered in costume and set design, stage lighting and stage managing. Wardrobe supervisor, Zelda Wynn helped to start these additions to the DTH curriculum.

Zelda Wynn (1905–2001) owned her own shop on 57th and Broadway in New York. She was hired as DTH’s first costume mistress, with the responsibility of tending to wardrobe maintenance, and designing and constructing costumes. A well-known designer, she designed gowns for notable black female celebrities including Ella Fitzgerald and Gladys Knight. A notable creation designed by Ms. Wynn was the first Playboy Bunny costume commissioned by Hugh Hefner. Wynn spent 18 years with Dance Theatre of Harlem before retiring at the age of 83.