The DPS Shakespeare Festival has a rich and visible history in our community, due not only to the large number of participating students, but additionally to the pride they take in their individual costumes.  Teachers and Coordinators have continued this tradition of excellence by using a few simple guidelines:

• All students must be costumed.

• All costumes (simple or complex) should be intentional and motivated by the role and/or character development.

• Costume choices should be consistent with the rest of the ensemble that each student is performing with.

DPS Costume Shop

Acoma Campus, 1617 South Acoma Street

Denver, CO 80223
Denver Public Schools’ costume department houses more than 5,000 costumes in different time periods and styles. The Costume Shop is intended to accommodate both DPS teachers and students by offering a vast selection of costumes and accessories for plays, performances, and theatrical productions. DPS District teachers can borrow an entire set of outfits to dress their productions, from Shakespeare to contemporary.

Contact Jean Benson, Costume Shop Specialist to arrange your visit.
Phone: 720-423-1750

I have been the costume shop specialist since it reopened in October 2003. I’ve helped many teachers and students with their costumes for performances. I am fond of all the costumes here, because of the memories they have made and are still making and the work that was put into them for Denver Public Schools’ children. Before I started in DPS, I stayed at home with my two children, leaving my position as a drafter of shop drawings for New World Millworks. I’ve always enjoyed embroidery, sewing, and working with my hands to make something out of nothing. In sixth grade, I performed “Frere Jacques” in a monk costume. I remember that moment and hope our costumes create memorable experiences for students who wear them.