People of Warsaw, dust off your wigs, grab your gaudiest jewelry, and dig out your wildest caftans because the Ms. Roper Romp is making its colorful return downtown this weekend.
What started last year as a quirky idea between two longtime friends quickly became a joyful tradition. Inspired by the iconic 1970's TV character Mrs. Roper from Three’s Company, the event invites locals and visitors alike to channel their inner “Helen” and stroll through town in full costume, all while enjoying food, drinks, and good company.
“We really just wanted an excuse to dress silly and act silly,” event organizer Suzie Brodersen said. “Last year, we told ourselves that even if no one else showed up, we’d still go. We did, and it ended up being a blast.”
Brodersen, along with her friend Latricia Sharp, first discovered the concept of a “Mrs. Roper Romp” through a Facebook group boasting more than 71,000 members worldwide. The idea has grown into a national trend among those who relate to Mrs. Roper’s flamboyant style and carefree spirit.
“She always wore these outrageous caftans, had big red curly hair, and rocked chunky, loud jewelry,” Brodersen said. “She was a total free spirit, and that really resonates with people, especially today.”
Last year’s romp coincided with Warsaw’s Art Fest, drawing curious smiles and plenty of photo ops from surprised onlookers.
“Everyone wanted to take pictures with us,” Brodersen said. “We had about 14 people show up in costume, and the whole thing was so goofy and fun that we decided we had to do it again.”
This year’s event will start at The Locker Room bar with a group photo, then participants will roam through downtown, stopping at local shops, restaurants, and what Suzie lovingly refers to as “watering holes.” It’s not a structured event—there’s no registration, no fee, and no set path.
“We just walk, chat, laugh, and spread joy,” Brodersen said.
In the spirit of giving back, this year’s romp will also include a donation drive for Meow Mission, a local animal welfare organization. Attendees are encouraged to bring dry dog or cat food as a contribution.
“If you bring a donation, great! If you don’t, that’s okay too,” Brodersen explained. “It’s about fun first and foremost.”
As a nod to the sweltering Missouri heat and Mrs. Roper’s famous long-suffering sighs toward her husband Stanley, the group is also handing out custom hand fans this year.
“They have a picture of Stanley on them,” Suzie laughed. “So when you’re fanning yourself downtown in a caftan, it’s just another silly way to stay in character.”
One of Suzie’s favorite parts is meeting strangers who instantly become “Helen's” for the day. For a couple of hours, everyone can relate because they are all the same person.
“You don’t go by your real name,” she said. “You say, ‘Hi, I’m Helen.’ And the person next to you goes, ‘Well, I’m Helen too!’ It’s just a riot. There’s no pressure, no competition, just laughter and lightheartedness.”
Brodersen said the spirit of the event is needed now more than ever. “With so much negativity in the world, I think people have forgotten how to just have fun,” she said. “This is a reminder that sometimes, you really can find joy in absolutely nothing.”
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Three’s Company or just looking for an excuse to put on a wig, Brodersen invites you to join her on Friday, June 14, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM down on the square.
And remember, for one day in Warsaw, everyone is Helen.
