Mar 17, 2002/ FW/ --- As we have written here before, a fashion show is very similar to the theater, where the clothes are the leading characters and the models play the supporting role.

There is more similarity than that and of course, a lot of differences too.

Like in the theater, there is practice and a dress rehearsal.

But unlike the theater where the actors, actresses and producers have months to practice, you only have 30 minutes at the most to do both practice and dress rehearsal.

How do they do that?

First, you must remember that the models are professional. They know how to "walk" and "emote" even before they come to the show. They are trained by their respective agencies to do all the "model thing" so to speak.

In short, they come prepared and really requires very little practice.

So, why is practice still needed?

Because each fashion show is different and each designer has a different vision. And it is up to the show organizer to translate that vision to the stage.

So, before the show, all the models "gets their instruction" from the fashion show coordinator. They are literally lined up by the runway while the coordinator reads to them how the show will be done.

They will also be informed of the "order," i.e., who will come out first, who will follow and who will be the grand finale, up to the point when then fashion designer takes his or her bow, together with the models.

Sounds simple? Simple enough for the pros, but can be very confusing to the uninitiated.

Remember, a show usually last only 15 minutes, 30 if it is a very long show. And everything happens fast.

Hence the models, together with the stylists should be able to react fast and know their cues.

The model also has to know the "vision" of the designer for the collection.

Like Vivienne Tam's Fall 2002 show, it was all about serenity and happiness.

The model has to emote that to the audience without speaking. Through her "walk" and "facial expression" that feeling has to be translated.

And that is the reason why the highly paid catwalkers earn a lot of money. They can "emote" and they can "transform" their faces to theme of the collection, without batting an eyelash. Literally!

Backstage: Vivienne Tam