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Ibsen Costume Gallery has been in existence since 1981.
Founded by Dwayne Ibsen, it was first housed in a strip mall in the old Dundee
area of Omaha, Nebraska and has since moved to its current permanent location
at 4981 Hamilton Street, just a few blocks north of Dundee.
Our primary market has always been theatrical costuming but over the years
many additional outlets have contributed to strong growth of the corporation.
Today, in addition to local theatrical productions, television spots, parades,
and events, Ibsen ships show wardrobes to over 40 states.
With more than 20,000 costumes (plus continuous additions) from all time periods
and masquerade specialties, Ibsen houses the largest inventory in the Midwestern
United States.
In 1990, Ibsen Costume Gallery added a Bridal Rental Department.
Wedding groups can rent or purchase attire in a variety of styles and colors.
Wedding accessories are also available. There is also a consignment area
for patrons wishing to sell their gowns.
A manufacturing wing called Ibsen of Omaha was added
in 1993. Ibsen of Omaha provides elaborate costumes to other costume shops
across the nation. Primarily dealing with reproductions and heavily beaded
period attire, Ibsen of Omaha welcomes special orders and ideas.
Over the years, Ibsen Costume Gallery has been honored with many awards.
From the National Costumers Association, Ibsen holds over 18 First Place Theatre
Awards, Memorial Awards for outstanding costuming, and awards for outstanding
in Spectacular, Authentic, Holiday, and Masquerade categories. Ibsen has
also been the First Runner Up to the Grand International Awards three times,
and has won the coveted Grand International Award once.
In 1987, Ibsen was chosen to create the inaugural gown for Nebraska
Governor Kay Orr. It is now on display in the Nebraska State Museum in
Lincoln, Nebraska.
In 1994, Dwayne Ibsen was elected president of the National Costumers
Association. His duties took him to New Orleans, Phoenix, Cleveland, New
York, Sacramento, Atlanta, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Kansas City. He retired
from the position in 1997, but remains the NCA national media contact for
Halloween trends.
Dwayne attended the University of Nebraska at Kearney and received additional
education at the University of Oslo. His career has led him from teaching
in the Omaha Public School District to Costuming. He continues to direct
at local Omaha area theatres and in recent years has directed numerous shows
including Pirates of Penzance, Hello Dolly
and H.M.S. Pinafore. He is also the artistic director
of the Rennaissance Faire of the Midlands.
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