Guys and dolls alike can find theatrical new additions to their wardrobes at Arena Stage this weekend.
From noon to 6 PM on Saturday, the theater’s costume shop will open to the public with 20 racks of hats, dresses, coats and other costume pieces from the Arena Stage collection. The last costume sale was ten years ago, so there should be plenty of looks to choose from. Here are just a few of the items you’ll have the opportunity to snag.
A Piano Coat from Duke Ellington’s Sophisticated Ladies ($200)
Channel a jazz great with this metallic coat edged with piano keys. This statement piece comes from the 2010 production of the musical revue celebrating Ellington’s music.
A dress from Guys and Dolls ($50)
You can dress like Lady Luck in this black, gold and leopard number from a 1999 Arena production of Guys and Dolls. It’s ideal for gambling, church, and impromptu trips to Havana.
A bird costume from Well ($2)
This eagle-esque head from Lisa Kron’s Well is one of least expensive pieces you’ll find among the racks. Take advantage of the bargain and snap this one up for Halloween…or maybe Fourth of July?
Leaf skirts and headdresses from Cabaret ($5 each)
Good news if you’re feeling tropical. Arena has eight of these leaf skirt, lei, and headdress sets available for just $5. If you get there early you and the squad may even be able to go as Lilo’s whole hula class next time you need a group costume.
Marching band hats ($5 each)
Looking to outfit an entire marching band? Really missing your days on the drum line? Good news. Arena has 100 of these band hats for $5 a pop. They were never used onstage, but we imagine that means they’re still in pretty good shape.
Didn’t see the right thing for you? No worries. The sale has a whole lot more. Find standard items such as vests, bags and wigs from $2 and specialty items from $10 to $200.
Christine Jackson joined Washingtonian as an editorial fellow in summer 2017. She enjoys writing about art, culture, history, news of the weird and, occasionally, hockey. She is originally from St. Louis, Missouri and is an alumna of the Missouri School of Journalism at the University of Missouri, more affectionately known as Mizzou. For now you can find her hanging around Cathedral Heights.
