The Wilton High School Music Department Boosters have begun their annual drive to collect no-longer-needed formal attire for the Concert Performance Attire Recycling Program.
All members of the performance ensembles at Wilton High School–band, orchestra and chorus–must wear formal attire to concert events. Girls are required to purchase a floor length concert dress, which can be donated by graduating seniors or when a student no longer participates in the music performance program. Boys perform in tuxedos, but there’s little chance of a tux or shoes fitting for four years. Local companies have trade-in programs, but families who find too-small tuxedos (especially needed), shoes and more in their closets are welcome to donate whatever they have to the Music Boosters effort.
The Boosters have arranged for space in the music department, now known as the “Good Wilton Closet.” Donations are sorted and cataloged over the summer by a team of volunteers who then work with the music department to arrange for students to ‘shop the closet’ with their parents before new orders are due.
“We wanted to keep it simple,” says program coordinator Alison Conroy. “Everything we collect will be available to students free of charge. There’s no need-based requirement or formal application process. And every piece of performance attire that the students can choose from will be in great condition. It’s an ecological as well as an economical initiative.”
To donate, please drop off clean attire at tonight’s Pops Concert, which will take place at the Clune Center at 7:30 p.m.. A bin will also be available in the WHS lobby through the end of the school year, after which sorting and cataloging begin.
For more information email the concert attire recycling program organizers.