Most people associate Loretta Swit with olive drab, not sparkling jewels. But at this weekend’s International Gem & Jewelry Show at the Rosemont Convention Center, the former Hot Lips Houlihan of “MASH” will be surrounded by glittering beads and baubles – some of her own making. Swit began creating jewelry a few years ago while touring with the musical spoof “Song of Singapore”; she’s scheduled to display some of her handiwork at the show, which runs Friday through Sunday. Call 847-692-2908.
Q. How did “Song of Singapore” lead you to jewelry?
A. The characters are looking for these fabled jewels hidden inside a sculpture of a fish. The director showed me what they used off-Broadway and I just thought it didn’t (work). So I said, “Let me sculpt the fish.” I made this incredible (bejeweled) fish, and sure enough when we opened, the fish started to get reviewed.
Q. Can you tellme about your jewelry-making process?
A. I wouldn’t talk about the process. That would be sacrosanct. That’s like asking the chef of a restaurant to give away his recipes.
Q. Do you know other actors who are artists?
A. I met Red Skelton on many occasions – he did these fabulous clowns. He told me that he painted a clown every single day. So I don’t feel all that prolific. If I can just do a couple (of earrings) a week, that’s pretty good.
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