semi formal?

[mbhandy]

Well in that case I guess you could go for a dressy/casual look you would still look better than most theater goers these days it's amazing what people think is proper dress these days.

Here in Park City Formal is clean jeans, a pressed shirt and Sorel boots.

MrBill

[McMurdo]

Here in Park City Formal is clean jeans, a pressed shirt and Sorel boots.

MrBill

Well there is no accounting for tastes, just because something can be done does not mean that it should be done.

[mbhandy]

Well there is no accounting for tastes, just because something can be done does not mean that it should be done.

Last time Marilyn and I went to the Egyptian Theatre I was Kilted casually. (Cable knit Sweater) Went to the after party and lots people wanted to know if I was cold? I had on my SWK heavy weight Black Watch and I was actually hot inside and comfortable outside.

MrBill

[thescot]

Depends on the custom where you live and your definiton of formal and semi-formal. How do the regular theater goers dress in your neck of the woods. I fear that around here (Atlanta), they'd likely look like they were going to a hootnanny or hog killin'.

In fact, "semi" means black tie, or tux, which would actually equate with a PC and black bow or straight tie.

"Formal" means white tie, i.e., tails with white bow tie and waist coat. That would equate with a doublet or even a PC with white bow and waist coat.

However, in the current environment of what is, IMHO, very slovenly custons of dress, you could probably wear a tee shirt and leather jacket and go unnoticed, at least as unnoticed as you can be wearing a kilt. Personally, I'd opt for the black tie look.

And the answer to the question about not owning either, the answer would be the same as the answer to every school boy going to a prom: rent.

Post photos of whatever you decide.

[thescot]

Well there is no accounting for tastes, just because something can be done does not mean that it should be done.

De gustibus non disputandum.

[davedove]

Quite probably, if you wore a sport jacket and tie, you would be the best dressed guy there. Heck, you're in Texas, you should wear your jeans, boots, and hat.

Now, if you want to dress up, go for it. You'll outshine everyone there and maybe a few will get the idea.

[Bob C]

It depends, in part, on the venue. I saw Lord of the Dance in a college gymnasium.

Even semi-formal would have been a bit much there.

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

The general rule of thumb for theatre-going:
Opening night: black tie;
Evening performances: conservative suit and tie;
Matinee: casual, but jackt and tie preferred.

So, in answer to your question, I'd suggest you go with your day wear jacket, a white shirt, and a nice tie. That way you'll look fine, and your wife won't feel over dressed (or under dressed) compared to the other women present.

[Chef]

The general rule of thumb for theatre-going:
Opening night: black tie;
Evening performances: conservative suit and tie;
Matinee: casual, but jackt and tie preferred.

So, in answer to your question, I'd suggest you go with your day wear jacket, a white shirt, and a nice tie. That way you'll look fine, and your wife won't feel over dressed (or under dressed) compared to the other women present.

Correct and sound advice. I concur.

[arrogcow]

I typically go to the theater in kilt, tie and tweed jacket, and as often as not, I am the most dressed up male there (even on opening nights). I would say you could get away with just a collar shirt (tie optional), but as someone who thinks this should be a dressier occasion, I would encourage a jacket and tie.

Usually what I find in crowds is:

symphony and opera - very dressed suit and tie, sometimes formal wear, but usually only is someone really special is performing and I change to semi dress sporran and black Argyle

Local professional theater - business casual, occasionally a suit and tie, but more likely a sport coat or sweater and no tie.

Traveling shows (Broadway series or your Riverdance)/ local semi pro theater- most of the crowd will be in jeans and polo shirts, but you may get lucky and see a suit, especially at evening performances.

Adam