Principals
Martha Brewster
Teddy Brewster
Mortimer Brewster
Dr Einstein
Rev. Harper
Jonathan Brewster
Elaine Harper
Mr Witherspoon
Brophy
Klein
O`Hara
Lt. Rooney
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Bring the dark humour, charm and wonderfully eccentric world of Arsenic and Old Lace to life with our full-show costume hire from Thespis Theatrical Costumiers.
Set in 1940s Brooklyn, this complete wardrobe package captures the period detail, character contrast and theatrical style needed to deliver this classic black comedy to its full effect.
We specialise exclusively in full-show costume hire, ensuring complete consistency across your production. Every principal and ensemble role is carefully considered, with costumes designed to work together visually on stage.
All costumes include appropriate footwear, hats and accessories, supplied ready for performance.
A complete costume package ensures visual consistency, saves valuable preparation time, is often more cost-effective, and delivers a much stronger, more professional impact on stage than sourcing individual items from multiple suppliers.
One of the most famous black comedies ever written, Arsenic and Old Lace follows drama critic Mortimer Brewster as he discovers that his seemingly sweet elderly aunts have a rather unusual hobby — quietly poisoning lonely old men.
As bodies begin to accumulate in the cellar and a host of eccentric family members arrive, including a delusional brother who believes he is Teddy Roosevelt, the story spirals into a fast-paced, farcical and brilliantly dark comedy.
Mortimer Brewster – smart 1940s daywear reflecting his professional status
Abby & Martha Brewster – traditional, respectable elderly attire with a deceptively sweet appearance
Teddy Brewster – distinctive character costume reflecting his Roosevelt persona
Jonathan Brewster – darker, more menacing styling with strong theatrical presence
Ensemble – authentic 1940s Brooklyn costumes including police, townsfolk and supporting characters
• The Brewster household scenes with layered character detail
• Teddy’s memorable Roosevelt-inspired appearances
• The arrival of Jonathan with strong visual contrast
• Fast-paced farcical sequences with quick character entrances and exits
Our costumes are designed to reflect authentic 1940s styling while supporting the fast-paced, physical nature of this classic farce.
Strong character definition is key in this production, and the costume set helps clearly distinguish each role while maintaining a cohesive period look.
Costumes are delivered by our own team using modern long-wheelbase vans, arriving on rails, in labelled garment bags, ready to go straight into your dressing rooms.
As a guide, you will typically require one 6ft rail per 25 costumes to comfortably accommodate the set.
• Full-show specialist – no cherry-picking, ensuring complete visual consistency
• Costumes arrive organised, labelled and performance-ready
• Footwear and accessories included as standard
• Barcoded costumes with detailed pick lists for easy identification
• Experienced support from first enquiry through to show week
Our standard hire period is 10 days, with additional days available on a simple pro-rata basis.
This is a popular choice for theatre groups and schools alike, and early booking is recommended, particularly for peak production periods.
Do you supply Arsenic and Old Lace as a complete set?
Yes — we specialise in full-show costume hire to ensure a consistent and polished stage appearance.
Are the costumes period accurate?
Yes — the costumes reflect authentic 1940s Brooklyn styling, supporting both character and setting.
Are accessories included?
Yes — where appropriate, hats, footwear and accessories are included as part of the package.
How are the costumes delivered?
Costumes are supplied on hangers in named garment bags for easy organisation during your production week.
Is this suitable for smaller casts?
We can advise on scaling and casting flexibility depending on your production requirements.
To check availability or request a quote, please contact us at:
hire@thespis.biz
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