Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "costumes"

Local costume shops offer Halloween necessities

2011-10-18T03:50:05Z

On Halloween, we all have the opportunity to be someone else. From nostalgic retro-nurses to bruised and battered zombies, almost everyone will be dressed up for a spooky night of fun, fright and candy. The Sacramento Press rounded up various local costume shops to help you find your perfect Halloween fit.

B-Bop Costumes
1931 L St.
443-2234

Hours:
Monday through Friday 10 a.m - 5 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Closed Sundays
Hours will be extended as Halloween nears
Rentals: Yes
Sales: Yes

Located in what owner Larry Slaybaugh called “one of the older and more iconic houses in Sacramento,” B-Bop costumes provides customers with an intimate costume-shopping experience. Racks of authentic costumes and clothing sit between walls that are lined with face makeup and costume accessories.

“We have everything you can think of,” Slaybaugh said.

Slaybaugh said that one of B-Bop’s distinguishing factors is that its costumes are real clothes.

“We specialize in 1920s and 1970s vintage,” he said. “All of our costumes are actual clothes from the era. We don’t have much in terms of fake replications.” He said that he believes that the real clothes will allow people to look as authentic as possible.

B-Bop offers both sales and rentals, and prices vary depending on what a customer is looking for. Whether searching for an economical or top-of-the-line outfit, Slaybaugh said that his store is a great place for anyone to find a costume.

Broadway Costumes and Theatrical Supply
3945 Franklin Blvd.
455-6021

Hours:
Monday through Friday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sunday noon - 4 p.m.
Hours will be extended as Halloween nears
Rentals: Yes
Sales: No

Broadway Costume and Theatrical Supply has more than 3,000 costumes for people to rent, said owner Kathryn Felgenhauer. While the shop does not offer sales, she said that she believes it would be hard for any other costume shop to top its selection.

“We offer just about everything, and it’s all of theatrical quality,” Felgenhauer said.

In addition to the costume selection, which includes everything from animals to period pieces to characters, the rental business also carry a wide selection of makeup and accessories.

“We just (received) a whole bunch of unique moustaches,” Felgenhauer said.

Felgenhauer said that her employees will personally walk customers through the makeup process, which is often a daunting task. She added that the top-of-the-line makeup selection is not only great for Halloween, but for theater productions as well.

With an organized selection of costumes and a helpful staff, Felgenhauer said that she believes that her store can fill everyone’s Halloween costume needs.

Cheap Thrills
1712 L St.
446-4103

Hours:
Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Hours will be extended as Halloween nears
Rentals: Yes
Sales: Yes

After reopening with its original owners in July, co-owner Todd Aylward said that Cheap Thrills is back to offering high-quality costumes that are “whatever you want them to be.” He owns the store with his wife, Sondra Aylward, and also owns the costume store Prevues.

“We have lots of authentic costumes, from Victorian to the 1980s,” he said.

Aylward said that the employees are able to put together crazy costumes for their customers. A wide selection and lots of character give his store a unique feel.

“We strive (for) good customer service,” he said. “We want you to have fun and feel good about yourself at the same time.”

The outside of the building, painted purple and orange, foreshadows the colorful atmosphere that customers will experience inside.

“We’ve got everything you could need here,” Aylward said. With everything from makeup to professional costumes, Cheap Thrills has plenty for customers to choose from.

Prevues
2417 K St.
448-4556

Hours:
Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Hours will be extended as Halloween nears
Rentals: Yes
Sales: Yes

Owner Todd Aylward said that Prevues is the sexy sister store of Cheap Thrills.

“Prevues is pretty outrageous,” he said. “If you want glam or anything out of the ordinary, this is the place to go.”

Prevues caters to a more adult audience than most other costume stores in Sacramento. Selling showgirl and pinup model costumes, Aylward said that it brings a “sexy side” to the local costume market.

Aylward added that Prevues strives for the same high-quality customer service found at Cheap Thrills.

The selection at Prevues is just as wide, only it caters to a more mature audience.

“It’s just another type of costume store,” Aylward said. “If you’re looking for a fun costume store, Prevues is the place you ought to go.”

I Wannabe Costumes
700 4th St.
West Sacramento
371-0901

Hours:
By appointment only, Monday through Sunday
Rentals: Yes
Sales: No

Julia Harrington owns and operates I Wannabe Costumes from the comfort of her own home. While this may seem unconventional, customers would have trouble differentiating her house from any of the other costume shops in Sacramento.

“All of my costumes are very high-quality,” Harrington said, adding that her daughter makes many of the costumes, and the others are either professional-quality or actual clothing from a certain era.

A large variety of costumes are offered, Harrington said. Everything from the entire “Star Wars” cast to “Shrek” and other kids’ cartoon characters are available for rent. Period costumes are also available, from Elizabethan to the Wild West.

Harrington said that while many costume stores charge extra for the necessary accessories, all of her costumes include everything for one flat rate.

“You can build your own costume, and I include everything in one price,” she said.

Harrington also uses her business to do local charity functions, from elementary school history events to community theater productions.

“Costumes provide hands-on learning, and it sticks with the kids,” she said.

I Wannabe Costumes is available by appointment only, but Harrington said that customers will be happy with the costumes that she rents out.

Evangeline’s Costume Mansion
113 K St.
443-2181

Hours
Monday through Sunday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Hours will be extended as Halloween nears
Rentals: No
Sales: Yes

Evangeline’s, an Old Sacramento favorite, has three stories, two of which sell high-quality costumes and wigs, said Manager Jen Kossmann. The store attracts a multitude of customers year-round with its fun and vibrant atmosphere and huge selection.

Kossmann said she credits the ambiance and the enormous selection of goods to the store’s strong sales.

“We are able to carry more than any other costume store,” she said. “It’s more fun than at other stores.”

Customers can take the old-fashioned elevator to the second and third floors, where the costumes are primarily sold. People can try on numerous professional-quality wigs.

“We specialize in having the most,” she added.

Where do you go to shop for costumes in Sacramento? Share your favorite shops in the conversation below.

Shen Yun Performing Arts will perform at Sacramento's Community Center Theatre

2011-04-01T06:14:33Z

From the versatile dances to the colorful scenery, Shen Yun is a unique traveling show that presents its audience with an understanding and a visual of the traditional Chinese culture.

Shen Yun will be coming to Sacramento on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Both showings will begin at 8 p.m. at Sacramento’s Community Center Theater at 1301 L St. across from Capitol Park.

“Every year, Shen Yun has brand-new performances,” said Sherry Zhang, who works for the Asian Arts Foundation as a local presenter for Shen Yun.

“The 5,000 years of Chinese history and culture have so many stories and legends. Dancers in Shen Yun bring to life many of these legends and stories,” Zhang said.

Every year, Shen Yun travels around the world with a variety of new pieces, songs and dances representing the true culture of China.

“There are several dynasties that the dancers portray on stage, like the Middle Kingdom, Han Dynasty and Chin Dynasty,” Zhang said.

Shen Yun came together in 2006 when a group of artists decided they wanted to revive the traditional Chinese culture and bring back the era in which China was known for being “The Land of the Divine.”

The show launched in January 2007 and has been traveling for the past four years.

Shen Yun has traveled around the world. The tour begins in December and ends in June.

“In the past, the show has traveled to over 100 states and several continents like Asia and Europe,” Zhang said.

“When I was on stage, I felt very purified, when you’re performing, you think about how you can present the sacred message to the audience,” said Cecilia Xiong, who is currently a performer and dance teacher for Shen Yun.

Xiong is originally from China but lived in Canada before she started dancing in the show.

“I was 25 years old when I first started dancing with Shen Yun, and it was the most amazing experience of my life,” Xiong said.

Xiong last performed in 2010 and reminisced on the opening of that year.

“I really liked the opening dance. We told an Asian story about a king of all the gods who would send his gods to earth so they could reign over human civilization,” Xiong said.

Xiong is currently teaching at the Fei Tian Academy of Arts California in San Fransisco helping to train young dancers who hope to be future performers for Shen Yun Performing Arts.

“The dancers create a very powerful performance, but the Shen Yun orchestra creates the unique songs,” Zhang said.

The orchestra combines both western and Chinese influence and all the songs are original compositions from Shen Yun.

Creativity is also displayed through the radiant and extravagant costumes that make the performers’ storytelling very colorful.

“Shen Yun has a costume team that works very hard to create so many different handmade costumes,” Xiong said. “The design ideas come from the choreographers and directors of the show.”

“Cloud and flower patterns are used to create a very classical and traditional costume,” Xiong said, adding that the digital backdrops are essential to the shows’ success.

“The backdrops are animated and are designed to create a lifelike picture for the audience,” Xiong said.

“The 5,000 years of Chinese history and culture is a treasure for all people. Shen Yun not only showcases the most authentic Chinese culture, but also the beauty and virtues Shen Yun presents will touch everyone's heart,” Zhang said.

Ticket prices can vary from $60-$100 depending on seating arrangements and may be purchased by phone at (800) 363-8212 or online at www.SFshow.net

One Scary Night

2010-11-02T02:18:14Z

It was December, 1991, I was an eighth grader and I had just received my winter grades. My parents had promised to buy me a CD for every A I earned, so I was especially thrilled to see four of them on my report card.
   Four A’s. Four CDs. The first CDs I'd ever own. Read ’em and weep: Jesus Jones’ "Doubt," Nirvana’s "Nevermind," Boyz II Men’s, "Cooleyhighharmony" and Bell Biv Devoe’s "Poison."
   I can't explain away the Jesus Jones decision. I wish I could blame it on the pot or the drinking, but the only pot that chubby 13-year-old me dabbled in was pies, and the only unhealthy drinking I was doing was that of strawberry milkshakes.
   Nirvana and Boyz II Men would soon become two of the biggest groups of the '90s. "Nevermind" is one of the greatest albums of all time, and "End of the Road" is still played at eighth grade graduations every spring. (I like to keep track of that sort of thing).
   That brings us to Bell Biv Devoe (now. . . you know). Of the albums I bought that day, I may have been most excited about "Poison." The title track, along with "Do Me," fully captured my 13-year-old imagination.
   Even though I had little idea what it meant, I was fairly certain that I too wanted to "smack it up, flip it and rub it down" one day.
Lest you think they were simply glorifying sex to impressionable adolescents, "Poison" made it clear that the theme park of love also had a seedy underbelly. It was practically a PSA. Without BBD, I might be walking around today, trusting a big butt and a smile.
   Bell Biv Devoe was the headliner at Friday night at "One Scary Night II," presented by Deon Taylor and 102.5 KSFM, at the California Auto Museum.
   The event was billed as "Sacramento's Hottest Halloween Dance Party," and I think that it lived up to the billing, for the most part.

There were some unfortunate, but ultimately forgivable, missteps, however:

–The event flier prominently featured Flavor Flav. I, and many other partygoers, expected the original hype man to be in attendance. He was not – he had attended the 2009 edition. (This was more of a misdirection than a misstep).

–Partygoers were promised a "HUGE celebrity guest list including Denise Richards, Stacey Dash, Bobby Jackson, Mitch Richmond, Michael Berryman and MANY more." Denise, Stacey and Mitch were all no-shows. If you’re gonna list celebrities who aren't gonna be there, you could have at least gone with some bigger names.

–The two front bars ran out of change at 9:45 p.m. The party didn't even officially start until 10 p.m. (Luckily I had $20 in ones).

–The bars started running out of booze by 10:30. The front bar had only beers and tequila by 11 p.m. They were out of beers at one of the bars next to the dance floor before Bell Biv Devoe took the stage.

–There was only one bathroom for the whole event, and the line for the women’s room was worse than the lines for the booze. The men's room soon became unisex.

Thankfully, the party was able to overcome the myriad issues, thanks in large part to a really great crowd. A few other saving graces:

–The celebrities who did attend were gracious and convivial:

–Mark S. Allen was the MC (seemingly in accordance with Sacramento law) and was his usual gregarious self. He came dressed as a Chilean miner, complete with his own rescue pod. "Are you the mistress or the wife?" was his stock line. (There were a few miners about, but he knocked his out of the park. Maybe he had the Good Day interns help him with it).

–Michael Berryman, of "The Hills Have Eyes" fame, was a delight. The first celebrity to arrive, he signed every autograph, posed for every picture and was exceedingly upbeat and positive. When asked about one of his upcoming roles, he offered simply, "I just love the craft." (I was talking to him about a movie he did, “Dirtmaster,” when he offered some sage words of advice: "Don't do steroids. That shit will kill you." I'm not sure what inspired the comment, but pretty sure it was not my chiseled physique.)

–Larenz Tate and Tyrin Turner were in attendance and "together for the first time since ‘Menace to Society.’ " Regardless if that’s true, they too were imminently approachable and spent a good portion of the evening posing for photos and talking to fans.

–The "Staff Monsters" were fantastic. They were more than 100 zombies, ghouls, monsters and crazies who wandered the party and stayed in character at all times. They really set a spooky, surrealistic mood for the evening.

–Obsidian Butterfly and Jack Sparksprovided fire and electricity-based entertainment in front of the venue, keeping those waiting in line to get in entertained and upbeat.

–Claude the Dragon. A 10-foot-tall, 20-foot-long fire-breathing animatronic dragon made from found materials? Yes please.

–The music. There were a bunch of DJs, and the dance floor was hopping all night.

–The costumes. The partygoers went all-out, and there were some outrageous getups. A few of my favorites were a "the paparazzi," Gilly, The Predator and, of course, countless sexy nurses, sexy police officers, sexy schoolgirls, sexy pumpkins, sexy orthodontists, sexy podiatrists, etc.

–Maino. Apparently he's a famous rapper, but I'd never heard of him before he walked up the red carpet. I had heard his track "All the Above" before, however, and he killed it on stage. Some rap acts struggle in live performances to measure up to the heavily produced studio sound of their albums. Maino had no such problem. I was very impressed. (I was kinda hoping that he was from Maine, and that was how he got his name, because that would be awesome. Alas, a cursory Wikipedia perusal tells me he's from Brooklyn. Maino is short for Jermaine. Sort of. The Pine Tree State is still waiting for its first rap superstar.)

–Bell, Biv Devoe. The boys didn't hit the stage till after 1 a.m., and they only played a three-song set, but the three songs they did, they did well. "B.B.D. (I thought it was me)" into "Do Me," into "Poison." They have been playing these three songs (only these three songs?) for the last 20 years, and they have them down pat. The sound could have been a little better, but their dance moves were surgical in their precision and oh-so-1991. 13-year-old me was so ecstatic he spilled his milkshake.

All of the images are the work of the supremely talented Steven Chea. With a "v".

Local Halloween Events

2010-10-15T00:32:07Z

Celebrating Halloween is now a month-long occasion. Here are some spooky activities to get your skin crawling and set your nerves on end all the way through the 31st. All events are in Sacramento, unless noted otherwise.

Trash Film Orgy Halloween 2010

Crest Theatre, 1013 K St.
Oct. 31: 8 p.m. (doors open) 9 p.m. (show begins)
All seats cost $10 ($1 discount for those wearing costumes)
Ages 18 and older only
More information: www.trashfilmorgy.com or call 916-44-CREST

Trash Film Orgy presents “Heavy Metal Halloween” at the Crest Theatre. Live bloody stage shows, audience participation, games and costume contests will accompany a showing of the 1986 film “Trick or Treat,” featuring cameos by Gene Simmons and Ozzy Osbourne. The bar will be open at 8 p.m. to hydrate a lobby full of crazy games, including a series of interactive games helping people become heavy-metal rock stars.

Haunted Hagan Screampark

Hagan Community Park, 2197 Chase Drive, Rancho Cordova
Oct. 8 - 28: 7:30 - 10:00 p.m.
Oct. 29 - 31: 7:30 - 11:00 p.m.
Ticket info: www.hauntedhagan.com/default.html

Haunted Hagan Screampark brags of hosting one of “Northern California’s most popular haunts; the Heartstoppers Haunted House.” In addition to having two haunted houses, the Screampark also features a train ride through the woods – operated by the Sacramento Valley Live Steamers Railroad Museum. The Screampark also promises a generous onslaught of walking dead.

Living History “Ghost Tours” offered by Historic Old Sacramento Foundation

Eagle Theater, 925 Front St.
Oct. 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30: 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Adults: $15. Youth (ages 6-17): $10. Ages 5 and under: Free.
More information: www.historicoldsac.org or call 916-808-4980

This walking tour leads visitors through the spooky history of Old Sacramento, dating back to the 19th century. Tour guides are in costume and lead an entertaining and insightful trip through the streets of Old Sacramento.

The Mansion After Dark

Governor’s Mansion State Historic Park 1526 H St.

Oct. 23, 30 6 - 9 p.m.
Adults: $6. Youth (ages 6-17): $4. Ages 5 and under: Free.
More information: www.parks.ca.gov/governorsmansion/ or call 916-323-5916

The mansion is embracing Halloween by decorating its rooms, playing scary music, providing only dim lighting and having costumed characters share stories of past governors. Fortune tellers will also be on-hand to share their predictions regarding the future. Tours through the darkened mansion are self-guided and appropriate for all ages.

The Haunted Fort

Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, 2701 L St.

Oct. 29 - 30: 6:30 - 9 p.m.
Adults: $6. Youth (ages 6-17): $4. Ages 5 and under: Free.
More information: www.suttersfort.org or call 916-323-7626

Sutter Fort’s State Historic Park offers this new Halloween-related event for visitors to learn more about the melancholy lives of pioneers from the 1800s. The tour lasts 45 minutes and guides visitors through darkened rooms and through the park as it is illuminated by the glow of firelight.

Spookomotive Train

Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot
Front and K streets in Old Sacramento

Oct. 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, 31: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Adults: $9. Youth (ages 6-17): $4. Ages 5 and under: Free.
More information: www.californiastaterailroadmuseum.org or call 916-445-6645

A skeleton crew silently implores visitors to hitch a ride on this Halloween-themed diesel train. With cobwebs hanging uncomfortably overhead, the Spookomotive train transports visitors a total of six miles along the Sacramento River and through Old Sacramento’s streets, which will be decorated for the Fall Harvest Days activities. The ride is described as being “delightful, but not frightful,” so all ages are encouraged to hop aboard.

Blood Moon Regale

The Colonial Theatre
3522 Stockton Blvd.

Oct. 16: 6:30 p.m. (doors open) 7 p.m. (performance begins)
$20 for advance tickets, $25 at the door
Ages 18 and up
More information: www.bloodmoonregale.com/ or call 916-308-9573

Celebrating its 10th year of performing, Blood Moon’s theatrical dance showcase features students from Hot Pot Studios as well as performers from all over the world. Presented by Unmata, Blood Moon Regale’s “Now That’s Fun” includes jump rope, bath time, magic, threesomes, a trampoline, synchronized swimming and so many other bizarre things that it would be counter-productive to list them all here. To understand the intriguing quality of this performance, you will have to go and see it for yourself.

Sacramento Horror Film Festival

The Colonial Theatre
3522 Stockton Blvd.

Oct. 21-24
A full calendar of film showings and ticket packages can be viewed at: www.sachorrorfilmfest.com/

This annual film festival offers an eclectic mix of film screenings, performances and activities all paying homage to the horror genre. Special guests at this year’s event include performances by Jill Tracy and renaissance man Voltaire. A Zombie Beauty Pageant will also be held with prize packages for those who place first, second, and third.

Safe and Super Halloween Monster Mash

Fairytale Town
3901 Land Park Drive

Oct. 22-24: 5 - 9 p.m.
Members: $10. Nonmembers: $7
Children 1-year old or younger have free admittance
More information: www.fairytaletown.org/ or call 916-808-7462

Fairytale Town will feature 17 candy stations and classic monsters, including Dracula, Dr. Jekyll, Frankenstein, witches and werewolves. The park has been made over for Halloween, offering hands-on activities and sets themed after spooky storybook tales. This event provides a wonderful Halloween experience for children and adults young at heart.

Haunted House at Maines Mansion

Midtown
2501 I St.

Oct. 22-31 (except on Monday and Tuesday): Dusk until 10 p.m.
Free admission, but donations are encouraged and accepted
More information: www.myramaines.com/

The Haunted House at Maines Mansion is celebrating its fifth anniversary. About 20 actors and special effects technicians bring the 30-minute show to guests exploring the century-old Victorian home. All donations will benefit Sunburst Projects (sunburstprojects.org) – an organization that helps children and families in the Sacramento area who are affected by HIV/AIDS.

Haunted Stacks

Central Library Galleria
828 I St.

Oct. 22: 7 p.m.
Free admission
More information: www.altlibrary.com/ and RSVP at www.meetup.com/altlibrary/

Be unnerved with an evening of paranormal investigation, a big-screen showing of “Ghostbusters” and an after-hours tour of the Sacramento Room. Participants will seek out the lady in red as they wander through some of the oldest parts of the library. There will also be a sharing time dedicated to some of Sacramento’s most popular ghosts.

Haunted Oasis Bellydance Showcase

Lido Bar & Grill
7739 Fair Oaks Blvd.
Carmichael

Oct. 23: 6 - 9 p.m.
Free Admission
All ages
More information: www.mychelledancer.com/hauntedoasis.htm

Join the belly dance community as it celebrates Halloween. Sacramento’s best belly dancers will be performing “A Night in the Oasis,” with dancers Rak’elle, Nour, Nyla Crystal, Radhia, Badia of Farasha Storm, Kelly, Jewels of the North and more.

Pumpkin Carving Workshop and Contest

Gluten Free Specialty
2612 J St.

Oct. 24: Noon - 4 p.m.
$20 a person, $30 for a pair (registration required)
Register by visiting the store or calling 916-442-5241

Gluten Free Specialty is making space for pumpkin carvers of all skill levels to join in its inaugural pumpkin carving contest. The store allows participants to use carving tools and supplies. A pumpkin is provided with the price of entry, and the store will also be selling pumpkins all week leading up to Halloween. First prize will receive a $50 gift certificate to the store. Photos of the finished product will be posted for customers to view and vote on throughout the week.

One Scary Nite Halloween Party

Sacramento Auto Museum
2200 Front St.

Oct. 29: 9 p.m.
General Admission: $20
VIP Table: $70
Ages 21 and older
More information: www.onescarynite.com/ or call 916-649-2388

One Scary Nite 2 promises to be bigger, better and scarier than before. The night will include live mixing by “DJ Clue,” fire breathers, stilt walkers, jugglers, zombies, costume contests with cash prizes and a large dance floor. This year boasts star attendances like Denise Richards and Stacey Dash, Bobby Jackson, comedian Tony Roberts and more.

Halloween Blackout Skate

Roller King
889 Riverside Ave.
Roseville

Oct. 30: 7 - 10 p.m.
Free admission with any canned food item (skate rental not included)
All ages welcome
More information: www.rollerkingroseville.com or contact David Jacques at rollerking@surewest.net

This all-ages event benefits the Placer Food Bank. Games and prizes will be offered throughout the evening. Guest are encouraged to wear costumes, provided that they are able to safely skate in them.

Midtown Trick or Treat and Pooch Parade

Oct. 30:
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Trick or Treat
Relles Florist, 2400 J St.

2 - 4 p.m.
Pooch Parade
Kennedy Gallery 1114 20th St.

2 - 4 p.m.
Pooch Costume Contest
24th and K Lot

For those who are scared of the dark, this daytime trick-or-treating event, supported by participating Midtown businesses, is the perfect way to get your candy fix. For those who enjoy dressing up their dogs, a pooch parade and costume contest will be taking place in the late afternoon. To enter the pooch costume contest there will be a $10 donation, which goes to the United Animal Nations. The times and locations listed above are meeting points during the day.

Halloween Carnival 2010

6446 Sylvan Rd.
Citrus Heights

Oct. 30: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Free admission
Ages 0-11
More information: www.creativefrontiers.com or call 916-502-6258

Creative Frontiers School and Radio Disney present a carnival full of activities for younger children. The carnival features vendors and food, live performances, raffles, costume contests, face-painting, hay rides, a bounce house, Radio Disney Live and much more.

Exotic Halloween Ball

Cal Expo

Oct. 30: 8:30 p.m. - 2 a.m.
General admission: $34 in advance
VIP Tickets: $100
21 and older
More information: now100fm.radio.com/events/2010/10/30/exotic-halloween-ball/

In its 14th year, NOW 100.5 is carrying on the tradition of 100.5 The Zone by presenting an event for the big kids. This huge party features costume contests, four dance clubs, live music from Wonderbread 5, laser light shows, bikini lap dances, a spanking and flogging stage, human petting zoo, mechanical bull rides and an exotic fun house.

Hallow’s Eve Red Carpet Halloween Ball

Shady Lady Saloon
1409 R St.

Oct. 30: 7 p.m.
Free for executive members, $15 for members, $20 for nonmembers
More information: www.metrospark.net

Come in costume and spend a night with the Halloween-outfitted Shady Lady Saloon. Live entertainment will start around 9:30 p.m., free psychic readings will be provided by Tammy Adams from House of Angels and goodie bags and prizes will be offered throughout the evening. The Harley White Jr. Orchestra will provide the music, and Fall-inspired cocktails will be served.

Dead Rockstars Show

Old Ironsides
1901 10th St.

Oct. 31: 8 p.m.
$8 cover at the door, 21 and older

This annual rock show, presented by Jerry Perry, will feature the likes of Adrian Bourgeous, Ricky Berger, I Scream on Sundae, Breaking Glass, Ol' Cotton Dreary, Crazy Ballhead, The Onlymen, 2 or 3 Guys, Saucer, Jet Black Pope and more.

Halloween Trick or Treat at The Fountains

The Fountains
Roseville Parkway and Galleria Boulevard

Oct. 31: 4 - 6 p.m.
More information: www.thefountainsatroseville.com
Free admission

Each of the retail stores at The Fountains will be throwing a trick-or-treat party. Main Street will be closed off for pedestrian traffic as visitors meander through the many different Halloween-inspired stations.

Trick or Treat Night at IKEA

IKEA West Sacramento
700 IKEA Ct.

Oct. 31: 5 - 7 p.m.
Free admission
Ages 3-12

Rather than getting lost in some real-world neighborhood setting, IKEA open openup to children and provided a series of candy stops throughout its massive store. Come get lost in a maze and mixture of bedroom and kitchen scenarios this Halloween. Kids can get their candy, and you can redesign your living room.

Kids Costume Brunch

de Vere’s Irish Pub
1521 L St.

Oct. 31: 9 a.m-2 p.m.
More information: www.deverespub.com/ or call 916-231-9947

This is de Veres’ inaugural Kids Costume Brunch, giving kids an arguing point for wearing their costumes all day on Halloween. A full brunch menu will be served, with cocktails for the parents. Special treats and giveaways will be available for children in costume. Some of the prizes include 30 passes to the Sacramento Zoo and four passes to the “Boo at the Zoo Party.”

Larry Scholl’s Folsom Ghost Train

City Lions Park
Stafford Way, Folsom

Oct. 22-31: 7 - 9 p.m.
All ages
Tickets are $8

More information: www.larryscholl.net/ghosttrain2010.html

Storyboard artist Larry Scholl put his 20 years’ worth of creative experience – most notably with Walt Disney – to work with the creation of the Folsom Ghost Train. The Ghost Train is the only independent, full audio-animatronic attraction in California.

In-depth coverage of Larry Scholl and the Ghost Train can be found by reading the article below:
www.sacramentopress.com/headline/38412/The_Ghost_Train_offers_scares_for_the_whole_family

Murder and Mayhem Scavenger Hunt

Evangeline’s Costume Mansion
113 K St.

Now through Oct. 31: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Free admission
All ages welcome

More information: www.sacramentopress.com/headline/38078/Murder_and_mayhem_at_Evangelines or call 916-443-2181

A trip to Evangeline’s Costume Mansion provides entertainment for hours, with or without the scavenger hunt. But, in addition to the already-overwhelming stock of costumes, games, trinkets, and funny gadgets, the store now invites visitors to navigate the old mansion in pursuit of clues revealing the identity of murderers from throughout history.
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Photo one: Evangeline's Costume Mansion Scavenger Hunt

Photo two: Ghost Tour

Photo three through six: Trash Film Orgy's presentation of "Trick or Treat"

Photos seven and eight: Larry Scholl's Folsom Ghost Train

Murder and mayhem at Evangeline's

2010-10-01T00:05:11Z

Most law-abiding citizens would rather not dabble in any business involving murder and mayhem, but Evangeline’s Costume Mansion finds a way to entice even its best-behaved visitors.

A quick visit can turn into an entertaining hour of aimless milling around. But now customers can infuse some purpose into their wandering as they guide themselves through a murder-themed scavenger hunt, gathering interesting facts at stations throughout the store about some of history’s most notorious villains and gruesome killers.

Evangeline’s store manager Jen Kossmann is responsible for organizing and implementing the hunt into the already-overwhelming layout of the store. Kossmann said the design for each of the 10 stations was inspired by the themes of the rooms themselves.

Rooms’ names are titled after the contents they display. There is a Gothic chamber, a renaissance room, a storybook land, heaven and hell, a saloon and a lab where naughty nurse costumes cover the walls from floor to ceiling.

“I used the store itself as a tool for knowing who and what would go where,” Kossmann said.

Stations are hidden on both the second and third floors of the Costume Mansion, most of which are inconspicuously tucked away in corners of the themed rooms. Others, like Jack the Ripper’s station, can be identified by elaborate decoration (severed heads and blood) and props relating to the character being investigated.

Visitors can collect scavenging guides on the second floor, which contain a map and questions corresponding to each station.

Axe murderer Lizzie Borden’s clue can be found propped up on a fireplace in the saloon room. It was believed that she burned her bloodstained dress after murdering her parents. With tangible visuals accompanying each station, participants don’t need to strain their imaginations to feel the weight of the horrors these individuals created with their crimes.

Criminals on the circuit include Al Capone, Son of Sam, the Zodiak Killer, Blackbeard the pirate, and other lesser-known villains and dark characters from various periods in history.

Kossmann said that in preparing the hunt she did a lot of reading on serial killers. In her research she came across America’s first documented serial killer, H.H. Holmes. Kossmann’s guide makes comparisons between Holmes’ infamous Murder Castle and Evangeline’s Costume Mansion.

It was in Holmes’ Murder Castle that many of his victims were trapped and discombobulated by the unorthodox layout of the building – doors opened onto brick walls, and staircases led to nowhere. Evangeline’s costume mansion has similar features and is recognized as one of Sacramento’s oldest buildings.

Kossmann admitted that she did not want to make the hunt too creepy, but given that the hunt is titled “Murder & Mayhem,” visitors cannot complain when they find themselves embarrassed by their frightful reactions to the mansion’s many hidden scare tactics.

With so much foot traffic coming through the store, Kossmann said there hasn’t been much need to advertise the hunt.

Kossmann said the store is usually staffed by 35-50 employees, but during the Halloween season around 100 seasonal workers join the staff to keep the mansion up and running.

The scavenger hunt is self-guided and can be enjoyed anytime the store is open. Kossmann said she hopes the scavenger hunt will be an ongoing feature in the store by changing the questions and themes that go along with it.

As Halloween approaches, people will begin flooding into Evangeline’s. Kossmann said “it gets really crazy” and furniture is moved to make way for the high volume of customer traffic.

The scavenger hunt adds history and intrigue to the already-stimulating mansion store. Whether you have a morbid fascination with the crimes of murderers or wish to brave the padded-cell dressing room, Evangeline’s offers an escape into the bizarre for everyone who visits.

Evangeline’s is located at 113 K St. and is open from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Halloween in Sacramento - a photo essay

2009-11-01T19:37:00Z

Photos of the dog fashion show by Eric Whalen

Photos of Midtown Trick or Treat by Suzanne Hurt

Photos of Halloween night by Tina Armour

Costumed characters promote California Museum's 'Out of this World' exhibit

2009-10-01T03:49:15Z

Halloween came to Sacramento early Wednesday morning as a group of six local science fiction lovers marched downtown dressed in Klingon, Death Star Trooper and Sith Lord costumes. Dozens of children and sci-fi fans flocked to take photographs and speak with the costumed characters.

Others gawked, laughed and one child even cried as they meandered from the California Museum down K Street and past the Capitol to Cesar Chavez Plaza.

The march was organized to promote The California Museum's new sci-fi exhibit "Out of this World: Extraordinary Costumes from Film and Television," which will run from Oct. 3 to Jan. 10. It will feature more than 50 props and costumes from some of Hollywood's most memorable sci-fi films.

Among some of the exhibit's main attractions are the Darth Vader robe and cape from Star Wars, the leather jacket worn by Harrison Ford in Indiana Jones and the hat worn by the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz.

Besides viewing these items, visitors will also learn how clothing designers and artists came up with ideas for the costumes and props, according to Ashley Robinson, the California Museum's communications manager.

Mark Lin, normally a business analyst in Elk Grove, was dressed as a death star trooper from Star Wars. He and another costumed storm trooper represent part of a group called the 501st Legion, a group of friends who dress up as villains from the Star Wars movies, Lin said.

Besides comic book and sci-fi conventions, the 501st Legion attends the Rose Parade and even visits children at Shriner's Hospital and the Salvation Army. Lin mentioned that he is looking forward to some of the older sci-fi costumes at the upcoming exhibit, especially the jumpsuit, proton pack and utility belt from Ghostbusters.

Three other costumed sci-fi fans were part of a Sacramento Klingon Assault Group (KAG) called "Ikvnomhegh," which means "swift death," said Chris Mumma, a KAG officer. Mumma wore a Klingon warrior costume from Star Trek complete with a plastic "bat'leth" or "sword of honor."

KAG "Ikvnomhegh" member Julio Alcala was also dressed as a Klingon, but in a plainer costume from the original Star Trek series. He mentioned that sometimes locals must travel as far as Los Angeles, San Diego and Las Vegas to attend sci-fi or comic conventions.

After displaying an uncanny vocal impression of a Wookie from Star Wars, Alcala added that he was looking forward viewing the black leather jacket that Arnold Schwarzenneger wore in The Terminator at the exhibit.

Another KAG members, Von Bean, dressed as a female Sith Lord from Star Wars. Unlike others, she sewed the costume herself, she said.

David Mello, not affiliated with any costume group, dressed up as Fourth Who, which he explained was the fourth incarnation of Dr. Who from the BBC series "Dr. Who." Recently back from San Diego's Comic-Con, Mello blogs about movies under the pen name Impaler General.

Mello said he is excited about the variety at the Out of this World exhibit. "Even if one person is a drawn to a [specific] genre, they will look at others," he said.

"[By] putting sci-fi costumes in the same gallery space as the Lincoln exhibit, the museum will be able to reach people with different interests," Robinson added. Besides being for sci-fi fans, it's also for people who love movies or costume design in general, she said.

California Museum members will get a sneak preview of the exhibit this Thursday at 6 p.m. during a members-only preview reception. In addition to being able to party in the Star Wars cantina and eat from a table based on the monkey brains scene from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, the gatherers will also participate in a costume competition.

Prizes include a round-trip ticket from United Airlines, a resort package from Le Rivage and Scott's Seafood Grill and Bar and four tickets to see "Star Wars: In Concert" which takes place Oct. 9 and 10 at Arco Arena. Non-members can attend the preview by signing up at the door, calling (916)-653-1752 or visiting Californiamuseum.org/membership.

The California Museum is located at 1020 O St.