Costumes valued at $28,000 were stolen by thieves who broke into the Cirque Du Soleil tent at 88 Pacific Blvd., Vancouver police say.

Const. Randy Fincham says the costumes stolen Saturday were created for the Cirque's Totem production.

"We're looking for a jewelled necklace as well as a black mask with some very distinct gold trim, and a very unique ape mask that was stolen in the break and enter," said the police spokesman.

"We are appealing to the public to help us get the stolen costumes back.”

Fincham says the items were stolen from a secure area at the site, on the north side of False Creek. He says the theft doesn't appear to be an inside job.

Investigators are reviewing surveillance video and looking for any witnesses.

Fincham says the costume pieces are essential to the production and doesn't know if Cirque has a backup plan.

Cirque Du Soleil's production of Totem began in mid-May and is being staged until July 6.