Bill Cosby Sweatshirt and More to be Auctioned Off for Barter Theatre

Barter Theatre's first online auction gives fans the chance to own a unique Bill Cosby sweatshirt. The hand embroidered sweatshirt is signed by Cosby and the designing artis, and will be auctioned off to benefit Barter's Annual Fund for Artistic Excellence.

The shirt was requested by Cosby for his stage appearance at Barter Theatre in October. "The sweatshirt is a gesture for his son," Robyn Raines, Advancement Officer said. "He liked it to be on stage with him."

The sweatshirt was personalized with a message reminiscent of Cosby's late son. "It says 'Hello Friend.' Which is how his son would greet people," said Lauren Musick, Advancement Officer. "It was a request of Mr. Cosby. It accompanied him onstage then he donated it to us specifically for an auction to benefit Barter."

The sweatshirt itself is extra large featuring a yellow background with large multi-colored letters spelling the message 'Hello Friend.' Just above the message is a broad prominent signature from Cosby. On the right is the hand embroidered Barter logo with the artist signature beneath. It is a unique and rare piece. "He said 'I want everyone to know it's one of a kind,'" said Musick.
"It's not your typical Cosby piece," said Raines. "I don't know what it will sale for. I hope it goes to someone who likes Barter and Cosby, maybe it will be a holiday gift."

In addition to the Cosby shirt, the fundraiser will include a separate auction for an autographed and professionally framed headshot ofErnest Borgnine who began his career at Barter Theatre. The 2012 fall seasonat Barter was dedicated to the memory of Borgnine, who was perhaps most known for his role in "McHale's Navy". The auction will end in time for the holiday season, closing on Dec. 7.

Interested bidders may now make their bids at Barter's Main Stage gift shop during business hours up until December 7, or on eBay November 28-December 7. Bidders can find the item online by visiting eBay and searching for Barter Theatre or by following the link "Online Auction" on www.bartertheatre.com.

All proceeds from the auction go Barter's Annual Fund for Artistic Excellence which is in the midst of its year end drive. "It's a really unique way to support Barter and the Annual Fund for Artistic Excellence," said Raines.

For more information, call Barter Theatre at 276-619-3315.