Good morning, Cathy.
There are several large costume rental houses which ship around the country. The Costumer and Pierre's come to mind but I know there are others. You have zero design input when using them. Some people swear by their quality - and some swear AT it. For design input you need to work with a house that has a build-to- rent program. That flexibility will come at a premium. Last plot I saw from the Costumer, their rental rate ran around $70.00 a costume. Specialty show requirements are frequently more and there is generally a rental minimum - sometimes a "whole show" minimum to avoid their specialty stuff being "cherry picked.". Plan on build-to-rent pieces being double that. Depending on the universities (or even other high schools) n your area, you may find a theatre program which stocks and rents costumes. There may even be access to student designers who could give you some design flexibility. Either way, it's good you're starting to look now. Wizard of Oz is a massive show and always in demand. Good luck in your search!
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Janet Wood
Drama Director
[Columbia High School]
[Columbia] [PA]
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Original Message:
Sent: 10-10-2025 14:42
From: Cathy Archer
Subject: Costume rental
Hi,
I am considering renting costumes for our spring musical of Wizard of Oz. I have never rented costumes. I need suggestions of places to rent from and how to go about renting. Also are there any that allow some input in design? Thank you
Cathy
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Cathy Archer
EdTA Member or Troupe Director
Rutland High School
VT
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