At the Guthrie Theater's first Costume Ball Dance Party, a wide cast of characters came ready to prove that all the world's a stage.

Some took advantage of CostumeRentals, a service that lets you rent costumes from Guthrie and Children's Theatre Company productions. Mary and Tom Racciatti wore costumes from "Don Quixote." "I feel like I can dance in it," said Mary of her unusual petticoat, known as a farthingale.

Margarette Minor came as a Tudor princess, but because her gown was made of corduroy, she considered herself a "working princess."

The princesses, bishops, superheroes and pop stars received approval from the ultimate dramatic authority -- Joe Dowling, the theater's artistic director. Unlike most revelers, he wore a classic tux. Dowling seemed to be enjoying the event. "Actors dress up for a living," he said, "but this is all so much fun."

For once, it was the audience's turn to take center stage.

Sara Glassman • 612-673-7177