These costumes were probably used throughout the lifespan of the 'Do Re Mi' act. Guillaume Jandaschewsky repaired his costumes often in order to prolong their lifespan.

Joyce O'Neill wore one of the costumes when she worked as Arthur's assistant in the 1940s. At this time Arthur was working for Barton's Follies, a touring Vaudeville style tent show. Arthur worked with the Follies for 4 years.
The Jandaschewsky family collection was kept together by the last remaining family member, Arthur 'Jandy' Jandaschewsky. During the last years of his life 'Jandy' sold the collection to his friend John Anastasiadis. Mr Anastasiadis kept the collection for a 25 year period, having built a repository for housing and exhibiting it at his own home. In 1994 he sold the collection to the MAAS in order to keep it together, and in New South Wales, according to 'Jandy's' wishes.

Costumes (2), circus, women's leotard and bolero jacket, velvet/cotton/metal/plastic, Australia, 1900-1962.
Two circus costumes worn by the 'Do Re Mi' dancers consisting of a black velvet leotard and a purple velvet bolero jacket trimmed in silver metallic braid, sequins and hanging beaded baubles.
(-1) Leotard of black velvet with musical motif of bar of music sewn in silver metallic braid, notes represent the 'Do Re Mi' musical act. Shoulder straps and top front and back of playsuit trimmed with decorative braid of silver metallic thread, hem trimmed with silver metallic braid, sequins and hanging plastic beaded baubles, shoulder straps meet at close centre back. Press-stud fastening on wearer's right side seam. Metallic braid worn and discoloured, and some sequins and baubles missing. Playsuit is unlined.
(-2) Bolero jacket of purple velvet decorated with silver plastic beading along bolero waistline and cuffs, hanging plastic beaded baubles from cuffs and arm and shoulder seams (and originally hanging from around waistline). Jacket is fully lined with a small 'convertable' collar and small shallow pocket on wearer's front right. General appearance of jacket is good.

Made: Australia; 1900 - 1962


Used: Jandaschewsky, Arthur 'Jandy'; Australia

Used: O'Neill, Joyce; Australia

Used: Barton's Follies; Australia

Used: Barton, Roy; Australia

Used: Do Re Mi; Australia

Owned: Jandaschewsky family;

Owned: Jandaschewsky, Arthur 'Jandy';

Owned: Anastasiadis, John;

No makers labels.

95/28/15

1900 - 1962