Images(2)

Costume, Performance

Object number2019.11.2

Manufacturer Clovis Ruffin (1946 - 1992)

Datec. 1977

MediumFabric; Metallic thread

Credit LineGift of Donna Rae

DescriptionSynthetic black and metallic silver and metallic blue fabric dress performance costume, size 9/10. Knit fabric with wide vertical ribbing. Fabric is form-fitting and stretchable/elasticized. One-shouldered with one long-sleeve (proper left); sleeve has thumb hole. Full-length flared skirt. DimensionsHeight x Width (width at skirt bottom): 55.25 x 31.625 in. (140.3 x 80.3 cm)
MarksInside collar at back center are two tags:
Top tag is black fabric with embroidered gray text "RUFFINWEAR / CLOVIS RUFFIN";
Bottom tag is off-white with printed blue text "DRY / CLEAN / ONLY / RN 44008 / SIZE 9/10".
Historical NotesThis costume was worn by Donna Rae while portraying the character “Terminal Stare” on the late-night horror and science fiction movie television program "Chiller Theater" on WIIC/WPXI Channel 11, which aired from September 14, 1963 to January 1, 1984. Rae and Bill “Chilly Billy” Cardille, host of Chiller Theater, created the vampy character who neither talked nor smiled. Rae wore this black knit one-shouldered dress on one of the episodes.

Previous owner Donna Rae

Related person Bill Cardille

Related institution WIIC-TV

Related institution WPXI

Subjects