Star Wars costume exhibit coming to Cincinnati

Iconic costumes from “a galaxy far, far away” are making the trek to the Queen City as the Smithsonian traveling exhibition Star Wars and the Power of Costume opens at the Cincinnati Museum Center on May 25.

Pulled from the collection of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, Star Wars and the Power of Costume is a partnership of the museum, the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) and Lucasfilm.

“Craftsmanship and artistry in costume design are valued creative components in the Star Wars saga,” Lucas said in a news release. “The detailed precision of a design can be as bold a measure of storytelling as words on a page, leading to truths at the core of a character, situation or shared history. From initial concept drawings to complex physical constructions, the costumes featured in this exhibition serve to further define crucial aspects of worlds created to move, educate and entertain us — to inspire the imagination.”

The exhibition includes 60 of the hand-crafted costumes from the first seven Star Wars films, including:

  • Monk-like robes of Jedi masters Obi-Wan Kenobi and Luke Skywalker
  • Intimidating suit and complex breathing apparatus of Darth Vader
  • Military-influenced uniforms of the Imperial Stormtrooper, Senate Guard and TIE Fighter Pilot
  • Yak hair and mohair costume of Chewbacca
  • Intergalactic outfits of Senators Bail Organa, Mon Mothma and Mas Amedda
  • Fierce armor of mercenary bounty hunters Jango Fett, Boba Fett and Zam Wesell
  • Elaborately detailed gowns of Queen Amidala, Queen Jamillia and their handmaidens

Short films will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and include interviews with artists, designers and actors.

“Costumes not only fill out the lush and captivating Star Wars galaxy, they tell a story,” said Elizabeth Pierce, president and CEO of Cincinnati Museum Center. “Whether they chart the evolution of a character or identify good and evil or that murky space in between, each costume is a thoughtful piece that drives the story forward. We’re excited to bring this exhibition to Cincinnati show the process behind costume development and to showcase the talents and inspiration of those involved in that process.”

Advance tickets will go on sale on Feb. 6.

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