“CARMEN”
REBORN THROUGH RECYCLING CONTEST GUIDELINES

"CARMEN" REBORN THROUGH RECYCLING CONTEST

 

The Fat Brush Art Workshop, Orquesta Northwest, and Fundación Wagro proudly announce the first edition of the contest “Carmen” Reborn Through Recycling. This multicultural event aims to promote, through artistic expression, the importance of recycling and giving new life to everyday materials.

This contest is open to people from diverse cultures who are interested in music, fashion design, environmental awareness, and creative cultural activities.

 

CONTEST GUIDELINES

 

1. ELIGIBILITY

The contest is open to anyone (men and women) interested in creating a costume made from recycled materials inspired by the opera Carmen by Georges Bizet.

 

There are two age categories:

• Ages 6 – 14

• Ages 15 and up

Participants under the age of 18 must submit a signed parental permission form (available with this announcement or by requesting it via email).

 

2. THEME

Participants must create original costumes and authentic accessories made from recycled materials, inspired by those traditionally used to portray the tragic love story between Carmen, a gypsy from Seville, and Don José, an army corporal.

 

3. MATERIALS & TECHNIQUE

Costumes must be created exclusively using recycled materials. Suggested materials include plastic, paper, bottle caps, buttons, newspaper, packaging, and any other material that can be creatively reused.

No new materials should be used.

 

4. REGISTRATION

The deadline to register is May 25, 2026 at 8:00 PM.

Participants must complete the registration form at:
www.thefatbrush.com

Please make sure to check your email for your registration confirmation.

 

5. HOW TO PARTICIPATE

All contestants must register in advance and come dressed in their costume at:

Town Hall Seattle
1119 Eighth Ave
Seattle, WA 98101

Date: May 31, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM

 

The jury will evaluate the costumes based on the following criteria:

• Originality and creativity

• Compliance with the contest guidelines

• Craftsmanship and level of detail using recycled materials

• Inspiration drawn from the traditional costumes used in the opera Carmen

 

6. JUDGING

On the day of the event, participants will take part in a costume runway presentation.

Following the presentation, the jury will select the winning designs based on creativity and overall execution.

Three costumes will be awarded prizes.

 

7. PRIZES

Ages 15 and up

First Place: $300 USD + two music lessons
Second Place: $200 USD + two music lessons
Third Place: $100 USD + two music lessons

 

Ages 6–14

Prize: $100 USD + two music lessons

 

On Sunday, May 31, the jury will select the most authentic costumes and accessories. Winners will be announced at the end of the event and prizes will be awarded.

 

8. PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT

By participating in the “Carmen” Reborn Through Recycling contest, participants grant permission to The Fat Brush Art Workshop, Orquesta Northwest, and Fundación Wagro to photograph, film, and share their designs and names on social media and other media platforms in perpetuity, without prior approval and without compensation.

The material will not be used for commercial profit.

The jury will select the winners anonymously, and their decision will be final.

 

We look forward to seeing your creative costumes!