Spoleto: See It, Do It, Wear It

Calendars book up. The population starts to swell. A man in a tuxedo walks down King Street at noon. CHARLIE’s masthead will soon look different. You see your first palmetto bug.

It all boils down to one thing…

It’s Spoleto time.

Enjoy our simple 3-step guide to enjoying your festival to the max:

1. SEE IT

Make sure to keep our Calendar handy through June, where we’ll give you more of our top picks by date, but here is a sneak peek of our top pick in each category:

- DANCE: “Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo.” Hilarity and strength that only male ballet dancers in drag can bring you, this will break all stereotypes of the ballet. $15 (May 28-30)

- OPERA: “Philemon and Baucis.” Check out puppet theater at its best in this poignant German opera performed by marionettes. Well, okay, the voices are coming from the orchestra pit, but use your imagination. This is Spoleto after all. $50 (May 28-June 1)

- MUSIC THEATER: “Die Roten Punkte.” Full disclosure…this is going to be weird. But after we saw a hilarious interview with the odd, clown-faced German siblings, we agree it will live up to its description of “inspired, brilliantly executed lunacy.” $25 (June 3-5)

-THEATER: “Present Laughter.” A Spoleto-goer who saw a sneak peek called it “flawless, gorgeous and hilarious.” This is just a tease because its sold out. But it’s hands down the cream of the crop, so keep your eyes peeled for tickets. $40 (June 6-13)

- MUSIC: “Julian Lage.” Prepare yourself. No matter your age or sexual orientation, you’re about to fall in love with a 21-year-old dude. Compared to Punch Brothers’ Chris Thile (our favorite Spoleto performer last year), this Grammy-nominated guitarist is not to be missed. $30 (June 11-12)

2. DO IT

Perhaps the best part of Spoleto is the fabulous private parties. Of course, the challenge is just that – they’re private. And often difficult to score entree. Our tip?

- If you’re in your 20s or 30s, Spoleto SCENE is the best way to submerge in the social scene. For as little as $100, your schedule will be chock full of memorable parties, happy hours and other gatherings with like-minded young Spoletians and performers. Sign up now before the first party hits.

- If you’re post-40, Spoleto Society is the group for you. As a Patron ($1,000), you’ll experience three luxe private parties on top of all your other goodies. If your wallet just moaned, opt for the Associate level ($500) and relish in two.

3. WEAR IT

One of the other great things about Spoleto is that it is the one time of year when fashion takes a front seat in Charleston. Whether it’s the parties or the incoming international flavor, something sparks and more daring, expressive fashions emerge. Go all in with a new look from:

- Hampden Clothing. Easily the best boutique for creative, stand-out finds like its giant, gold ribbon pin. Guys, don’t miss the new(ish) section for men.

- Billy Reid. Particularly for the men, this is your best bet. With a big 75% off sale sign in the window, the time is now.

- Cynthia Rowley. Dresses galore for the ladies. Keep your eyes peeled for edgy finds in the middle bin.

- Saks. Big going-out-of-business sales will have the high-end fashion Mecca flooded, and for good reason.

Happy Spoleto!

Check our SOCIETY page often for coverage of all the best parties.

Story by: Caroline Nuttall