The costumes ranged in price from 5 cents to $500,000 - non-negotiable - at the Hippodrome State Theatre's costume sale Saturday and Sunday.
The half-million-dollar getup was a black lace, floor-length gown complete with veil and hat, designed by the Hippodrome's two-time Emmy award-winning Marilyn A. Wall, costume designer-in-residence. This and hundreds of other costumes from German-style rompers to pink vinyl jackets and patched denim shorts were among the items for sale.
"I think that Marilyn really just didn't want to sell it so she put that price tag on it. She loves that costume," said Kara Winslow, director of development and subscriptions, referring to the gown.
Before the sale began at 12 p.m. Saturday, a line gathered at the door.
"We did not expect that many people at all. We were in total shock at how many came out," Winslow said. "We expected to open up our doors and let everyone in at once."
Among one of those who was not deterred by the lengthy line was Gainesville resident Sarah Lynch.
"I thought it would be fun to see what they had to wear for everyday apparel," Lynch said as she was browsing through some costumes on a laundry line.
One costume caught her eye as soon as she walked in. A green traditional German jumper hung by itself across the room.
"I really want it, but I don't think I can pull it off," Lynch said, smiling.
The location of the costume sale was eerily appropriate as prospective buyers walked down a flight of stairs into the basement of the theater, leading them into a dungeon-like room of costumes.
Once inside, racks of costumes, tables of shoes and odds and ends and laundry lines hanging dresses greeted the buyers.
"Some of the 5-cent items were plastic hooks, really goofy, cheap stuff," Winslow said.
The more expensive items were those like a cashmere and mink sweater for $180.
All of the prices were non-negotiable, as the funds directly helped the Hippodrome.
"Today was a way to raise money for the Hippodrome, and it was also a chance to go through 36 seasons of costumes," Winslow said. "It was a great way to make more space and also fundraise at the same time."
Melissa Menchaka, another employee of the Hippodrome, was also at the costume sale to answer any questions the potential buyers might have had.
"We've been planning this for a while, and we knew it being in October would help. Part of the reason we made it in October was for the Halloween crowd.
Menchaka said the costume sale brought with it more than anyone could have expected.
"We got some really good press, and the turnout, of course, was ridiculous. I got here and the line was wrapped around the building," Menchaka said, smiling. "It was just a really great turnout."
