THE: Costume Shop Assistant (S9610A)

Summary

A Costume Shop Assistant assists the Costume Director in the finding, organization, creation, cleaning and modification of costumes, accessories and other crafts for productions in both Theater and Dance. The Costume Shop is a busy workshop where you will have a variety of tasks and learning opportunities.

Costume Shop Assistants will participate in all areas of costuming and potentially use their skills in crossover projects outside of the Costume Shop.  Potential projects include:

  • Hand and machine sewing on a variety of machines
  • Experience in identifying and altering fabrics
  • Creating new garments from start to finish including patterning, cutting, sewing/finishing
  • Creating accessories and craft projects like jewelry, armor, puppets, masks
  • Modifying garments and objects with paint, dyes, and tools
  • Garment care and maintenance including spot cleaning, laundering, pressing/ironing, steaming
  • Organizing garments, supplies and tools in the workspace

Basics

  • Department: Theater
  • Supervisor: Rebecca Armstrong
  • Office Location: Schaeffer 101
  • Email: rarmstrong@bates.edu
  • Hours: 6
  • Workers: 7

Responsibilities

Responsibilities may include, but not be limited to:

  • Assisting in the maintenance of the Costume Stock (measuring, labeling, hanging and/or folding)
  • Attending fittings to assist and take notes for Costume Director or Costume Designer when needed
  • Constructing made-to-order garments and altering existing garments and scenic soft goods or props
  • Assisting in the maintenance of costumes, including repairs, laundry, shoe polishing, etc. Assisting with Costume Crafting projects (gluing, painting, cutting, assembling, modifying existing).

Requirements

A Costume Shop Assistant should have an interest in clothing, fashion, cosplay, costuming, crafts or art.  A willingness to learn new skills and invest in detailed work.  Previous sewing skills (hand and/or machine) or crafting skills are helpful but training will be provided for tasks as assigned.  Prior theater or performance experience is desired but not required.

Reporting

This position reports to the Costume Director and may work closely with other students, staff, faculty and community members .

Working Conditions

Standing, sitting, stairs, and carrying loads up to 50lbs. Some use of ladders and stepstools.  Use of adhesives, paints, dyes and other chemicals with proper safety precautions.  Frequent use of heat tools, electric tools and other machinery with moving parts.