By By KEVIN SCOTT CUTLER
Lifestyles & Features Editor
The latest in spring fashions will be showcased next weekend during the second annual Dress Rehearsal Fashion Show.
The event is set for Saturday, beginning at 12:30 p.m., at the historic Turnage Theater. Tickets are $20 each, which includes a chance of winning $500; additional raffle tickets are available for $5 each.
All proceeds benefit the Turnage Theaters Foundation.
According to Page Wright, who is coordinating the show, the event will feature a virtual explosion of vibrant colors and patterns, along with more traditional, sedate fashions. Some of the fashions will be one-of-a-kind pieces created by local artisans.
The theme pays tribute to the traditional Tulip Festivals once held in Beaufort County, Wright added. Betty Stewart has been researching the festivals, and homage will be paid to those who were at the helm of those annual events.
A film of a past festival will be screened as part of the show. There has been talk the fashion show could become a springboard for reviving the Tulip Festival tradition in Washington.
Janet Cox will serve as choreographer and mistress of ceremonies for the fashion show.
“We’re thrilled to have her on board,” Wright said.
Walking the runway will be models wearing spring fashions, jewelry and accessories available from downtown Washington merchants. Those participating are Cat Bamboo, Charisma, Blythe House, Everyday Creations, Whimsy, Stewart’s Jewelry Store and Inner Banks Artisans’ Center. Russell’s Men’s Store will provide tuxedos for the escorts.
Downtown Washington eateries are hosting $10 luncheon specials Saturday in conjunction with the show. Reservations must be made after the fashion-show tickets are purchased.
“Make sure to tell them you’re with the fashion show,” Wright said.
Offering those luncheon specials are Down on Mainstreet, Lanier’s, The Meeting Place, MiMi’s, Pia’s, The Mecca Grill and La Bella Pizzeria.
As the Turnage Theater works toward its goal of a firmer financial footing, such fundraisers are important, according to Scotty Henley, the theater’s executive director.
“Thank goodness for Page Wright and Janet Cox for putting together this fashion show for a second year, and thanks to the merchants for participating so cooperatively,” Henley said. “Their assistance is helping support the Turnage Theater, while we hope we are helping to support them, as well.”
For more information or to purchase tickets, call 252-975-1191 or visit turnagetheater.com. The Turnage box office is open Mondays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.