SFO costume sale set for March 11

Whether you’re in the market for a Baroque ball gown, a warrior mask or a pair of jeans, the Santa Fe Opera Costume Sale offers fashionistas the chance to shop cheap.

The sale runs on Saturday, March 11. Although the first hours are sold out, patrons may come to the opera’s Stieren Hall from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. on a first-come, firstserved basis.

The sales includes everything from clothing to hats, masks, shoes, jewelry and accessories, said Brianna Fristoe, the opera’s costume collections manager. A shortlist of operas represented includes “Ariodante,” “The Golden Cockerel,” “Radamisto,” “Tea,” “The Magic Flute,” “Lucio Silla,” “Simon Boccanegra,” “Countess Maritza” and “The Lord of Cries” chorus.

“‘The ‘Lord of Cries’ chorus looks are modern, asymmetrical and edgy, inspired by the runway,” Fristoe said. “They could easily be a great addition to any wardrobe.”

“Ariodante” spawned Baroque doublets, jewel tone and silk taffeta dresses with gold overlay and pumpkin hose, a precursor to breeches.

“The Golden Cockerel” brought luxe silk and velvet with Russian prints, as well as sequined and pleated fabric rolls .

The principal costumes from “Lucio Silla” boast an oversized 18th century design.

“We don’t have the capacity to hold everything,” Fristoe said. “Most of the stuff will be custom-made.”

There will also be Tyvek costumes (protective garments) and hats from “Candide.”

The sale will encompass SFO costumes from 1987 through 2017.

The average price for a full look ranging from $65$70, Fristoe said, with the most expensive running about $250.

The opera spends an average of $3,500 per costume, taking in labor, fabric and design, she added.

An invitation-only pre-sale takes place on Friday, March 10 for community groups such as Theater Grottesco, Wise Fool, Dancing Earth Creations, Atomic Follies, Theatre Santa Fe and the University of New Mexico Opera Theatre.

The opera stages the sale every three years to clean house and create space.

“I have 45 racks of costumes,” Fristoe said. “There’s something for everybody in this sale. When I’m low on hangers, I know it’s time for a sale.”

Shoppers are asked to arrive and exit through the south gate on Opera Drive and park in the theater parking lot. Cash or credit cards accepted.