Here is the little primer I try to post every year. The prices differ per item and per table. There is no standard price. You're just as likely to find something for a quarter as you are for a hundred dollars, depending on the item. The prices also tend to go down as the day wears on and by the end, tables may be giving freebies.
FAQs:
--How does the celebrity autograph line/photo booth work?
The celebs rotate each hour. For the autograph line, you pay $30 each time you go down the line and you can get each celeb to sign up to two items. You can bring items of your own or, if you don't have anything, they have pieces of paper/cardboard next to them that they can sign. As previously mentioned, there is also a flea market poster that can be purchased. There is a separate line for the photo booth where a BC/EFA volunteer will be asking who from that hour you want your photo with. Not every star from every hour will be in the photo booth. They do it based on popularity and sometimes based on the schedule of the stars. If you are really desperate for someone and/or a group/pairing, try offering more than the asking amount and they may be able to make it happen. Remember, it's all about raising money for a good cause. There is no guarantee the person you want will be asked to do the photo booth or, if they do, that they will necessarily get to you. Depending on the popularity of the guest and their time constraints, there is a chance you won't get the photo you are looking for. You do not pay until you get to the front of the line.
--Can I take a photo with a person at the autograph table?
No. You may see people walking around or volunteering at a table and some people do ask then but try to remember that it's customary to give a donation in return.
--Can I get an autograph at the photo booth?
Depends on the star, the mood, the line, the item, etc. I have done it before and given an extra donation.
--What if I'm in the autograph line and someone I want a photo with someone who is in the booth then?
Call over a volunteer and they will hold your spot in the autograph line. If you are in the autograph line and the person you wanted is in the photo booth, let them know and they will let you wait until they return to get your merchandise signed.
--Do they take credit cards?
Yes. You can purchase an item, they will hold it for you, and there are CC kiosks set up. Pay for your item at the kiosk, bring the receipt back to the booth and the item is yours. They also have ATMs.
--What happens if it rains?
If the forecast is looking particularly gloomy, alternate plans or a rain date may be announced. Fingers crossed for glorious sunshine but check the website leading up things look questionable.
--How much money should I bring?
Entirely up to you. As a general rule of thumb for theatre lovers, you'll probably spend all you bring so stay within your means.
--What do they sell?
Some shows stick to their own merchandise. Some sell items donated by cast members. Some sell strictly signed stuff. There is a very popular booth that sells playbills from every era, organized alphabetically by decade and individually plastic wrapped. If your favorite show does not have its own booth, it doesn't mean merch won't be represented elsewhere. One of the great joys of the flea market is those one a kind rare finds that may suddenly hit you when you're sorting through a pile.
--What time should I get there?
The crowds get bigger as the day goes on and then get rapidly thinner as the big auctions end. Especially if the weather is nice, expect huge amounts of people. Expect having to wait to wade through stuff. Expect that if you see a gem of an item and hold off on it, it will be gone the next time you come around. Expect an amazing time.
--Can I bring my dog?
As it's outdoors, they are allowed but, again, it's super crowded so if your dog is skittish or small enough to be stepped on, be forewarned.
Updated On: 9/6/12 at 09:46 PM