Wendy Goldstein, owner of Costume Specialties, is one of the judges this year for the general public costume contest. She is one of the original supporters of High Ball, as a sponsor and judge. She says “High Ball is one of the few events in Columbus that is cross cultural and cross community. It is artistic, theatrical, transformative and has something for children, families, artists of all types, entertainers, drag queens, and anyone with a sense of the dramatic. This is Columbus showing its stuff!”
Asked what the wildest costume Wendy had seen at High Ball, she had no hesitation “The couture stilt walker. She was so striking that she is still used in promotional images. Last year’s winner of the Public Costume Competition also stands out. His devil costume included short stilts that gave him a goat leg appearance and his full body makeup and effective use of latex appliances made for an amazing effect. Lady Gaga in Wonderland was also incredibly creative and fit last year’s theme.”
She continued “As a judge I am looking for concept, construction, quality finishing and how well the costume fits the theme. My tips for participants is let it go - be wild and fearless, and to always do your best.”
Other judges for the Public Costume Contest will be Stephanie Stein of S2/Wilhelmina, Gendala from Phia Salon, Tim Mauer, owner of Mukha Custom Cosmetics, and Angie, the CW Columbus host.
Preregistration for general public contestants is from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the south stage just south of the Garden Theater on N. High St. Get a number and stroll across the stage. Judges will select contestants to move into Phase II for the runway portion of the competition, which will take place at the main stage at Fifth and High. The numbers of finalists will be displayed on the LED screens between 10:15 and 10:30. If your number is displayed - come on down! You MUST be present to win!
Individuals, duos, and groups can enter in any one of the following categories:
Most Radiant - Costumes features LED, laser, UV reactive or other glow accessories
Best Transformation - Costume transforms from one look to another
Most Fabulous - An outrageously amazing costume
Best Extreme Face Painting - Beyond basic clown makeup!
Best B-Movie Ensemble - A group category paying homage to the campiest of the campy
Finalists will get a Short North swag bag. Winners of each of the 5 categories will receive $100.00 and be entered to win Best of Show, with the top prize of $1,000.00, sponsored by Costume Specialties and CW Columbus. One of the final five will also win the alive! People’s Choice Award of an amazing swag bag.
Wendy reminds everyone “You must come to experience it! The mayor loves it and so will you!”.
