Bay Street Theater’s Artistic Director Scott Schwartz has announced that renowned designer and philanthropist Donna Karan will be the Executive Producer for the upcoming world premiere of “Mister Halston.” The production runs from June 2 to June 21 at Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor.
Karan joins Tony Award–winning producer Bruce Robert Harris (this season’s “Dog Day Afternoon” and “Death of a Salesman” on Broadway) in bringing “Mister Halston” to the Bay Street Theater stage.
“Mister Halston” is a new play by Raffaele Pacitti, directed by Michael Wilson, that explores the life and times of famed American fashion designer Halston. Set against the glamorous and volatile 1970s and ’80s New York, Mister Halston offers an unguarded look at the man behind the myth, tracing the meteoric rise, stunning fame, and ultimate fall of this iconic fashion and cultural figure. “Mister Halston” presents a bold, intimate, and human exploration of artistry, ambition, identity, and the cost of fame.
“I saw a workshop staging of ‘Mister Halston’ last summer at Bay Street Theater and liked it so much I wanted to get involved,” said Donna Karan. “Halston defined modern American fashion. Clean lines, pure shapes, liquid fabrics, a sexy attitude. He paved the way for what was to come. Mister Halston will bring audiences into the world of one of the most influential figures in American fashion.”
“Mister Halston” marks the latest chapter in Karan’s meaningful artistic connection to Bay Street Theater, which honored Karan, alongside Christie Brinkley, at their 2025 Gala. During that celebration, the creative team behind “Mister Halston” presented a tribute performance inspired by the legendary 1973 “Battle of Versailles” fashion showdown in France, a defining moment in American fashion history attended by both Halston and Karan. The presentation offered audiences a glimpse into the glamor and ambition of an era that reshaped global style. That creative spark now expands into a full world premiere production.
“We are honored to collaborate with Bruce Robert Harris on this exciting new work and are grateful that world-renowned fashion icon Donna Karan, who had a legendary time with Halston himself in Paris, has agreed to support the production as Executive Producer,” said Scott Schwartz. “This project reflects the intersection of theater, fashion, and cultural history that continues to inspire audiences.”
Doors and a full bar will be open in the lobby one hour prior to every performance, giving guests the opportunity to gather before the show begins. Tickets for “Mister Halston” and other 2026 Summer Mainstage Season productions are now available at baystreet.org or by calling the Box Office at 631-725-9500.