By Robert Cruse

MNSOC Members attend the premiere of “Sherlock Holmes 2″ in awesome Steampunk costumes.

Like all of you, I was horrified at the events that transpired during the early hours of July 20th and the senseless deaths that occurred.  In the wake of the shootings there has been a great debate on whether or not costumes should be allowed at theater showings.

AMC Theatre was rumored to have banned costumes from it’s movie theaters, but recently they clarified their stance as follows:  “Contrary to media reports, costumes are not banned, but we will not admit guests with face-concealing masks and we will not allow fake weapons in the buildings. We want all our guests to feel comfortable at our theaters and we will be closely monitoring.”

Personally, I feel this is another knee-jerk reaction spawned by the ever-present in-your-face media of the day.  I’m not going to debate gun control OR wearing costumes.  We’re a guild full of people who love to costume at events.  Some of us have gone to premieres, re-showings, etc. in a costume and had a lot of compliments.  Not to mention it can just be downright fun!

So, with movie theaters seeming to follow in the wake of AMC’s lead – and if you’re unsure of whether or not a particular theater will allow costumes, please just call ahead – I’d like to offer some do’s and don’ts you might want to keep in mind while wearing your gear in public.

DO – Have fun.  Really, why else are you doing this?

DON’T – Put other costumes down (aka snarking).  You’re all there for the same reason, so be nice if someone’s work isn’t on par with yours.  Be complimentary and considerate.

DO – Represent yourself well.  It’s your work, right?  Be proud of it!

DON’T – Bring props.  Okay, a Harry Potter-like wand isn’t that bad, but a massive shield, large hoops on your skirt, etc. are just going to get in the way.

DO – Participate.  Again, it adds to the fun atmosphere and the festivities.

DON’T – Wear clothing or costumes that could be construed as police, military or other authority figures.  However, no one is going to confuse a Star Fleet costume with real military so I figure that’s safe.

DO – Be aware of your surroundings.  Sitting around in the center section with a huge hat on that blocks everyone’s view is more than likely going to result in your being asked to leave or remove it.

DON’T – Be a dick.  (Thank you, Wil Wheaton).

DO – Obey all directions/policies of the movie theater and it’s employees.  Because you’d like to do this again, right?  And besides, you do not want to get asked to leave after spending all this time on your costume, and then standing in line waiting for the show, right?

DON’T – Forget where you are.  Be aware of your surroundings and if something doesn’t feel right, leave and get someone in authority.

So, there you have it.  Just a few simple suggestions to make your (and everyone else’s) theater event a lot more fun.  Be smart and be safe.