The Clothes Make the Klingon

Even before an actor moves a muscle or speaks his first lines, the audience is given a wealth of information about him, the time period, and even the setting all from what he is wearing. We might not think much about that, but it’s true. Star Trek wouldn’t seem nearly so futuristic nor Hamlet so historic if both Capt. Kirk and the Danish Prince were wearing saggy jeans and a shirt from the Gap. We, the audience, are a savvy bunch these days (hard to believe), and we expect everything to look “real” — even more so when it’s fantasy. Compare Adam West’s Batman costume to Christian Bale’s and you’ll get the point. But if you need a visual to go with that, check out the “Out of This World” exhibition at the Norton Museum (1451 S. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach), which runs through September 4. Sci-fi geeks can get up-close and personal with costumes from their favorite modern mythologies, including Star Wars and Battlestar Galactica. Visitors will learn about the creative process and the evolution of a costume from beginning to finished product. There will be special presentations every Thursday and film viewings on Saturdays. Regular museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free for museum members and children 12 and under, $5 for visitors age 13 to 21, and $12 for adults. Call 561-832-5196, or visit norton.org.
Tuesdays-Sundays. Starts: June 8. Continues through Sept. 4, 2011