Costume Assistant

Canadian Opera Company•Toronto, ON

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Canadian Opera Company is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Costume Assistant to support costume production ahead of the company’s 2026/2027 season. The Costume department plays a vital role in bringing each production to life, translating bold creative visions into the richly detailed work seen onstage. Working alongside a passionate team of craftspeople, artists, and production staff, the Costume Assistant will contribute directly to the creation and realization of world-class opera productions. This is an opportunity to be part of the collaborative process where performances first take shape: supporting fittings, preparing costumes for the stage, and helping ensure artists feel confident, supported, and performance-ready. Reporting to the Production department’s Head of Costumes, the ideal candidate is someone who thrives in a fast-paced creative environment, working closely with production crews, wardrobe staff, and artists in to ensure that costumes are produced, altered, maintained, and production-ready throughout rehearsals and performances.

Requirements

Post-secondary diploma in theatre and/or fashion
Knowledge of garment construction, sewing, and alterations
Excellent interpersonal skills. This position requires interacting with artists in intimate settings, as well as communicating with IATSE colleagues
Theatre experience
Strong organizational skills. This position requires the ability to take artistic direction and follow the priorities set by the Costume Supervisor and the Head of Costumes while completing their work
General knowledge in Microsoft Office
Willingness and availability to work evenings and weekends as required

Responsibilities

Learn the requirements and design of each production and work closely with the Supervisors to organize costumes for chorus, dancers, and supernumeraries
Collect and assign shoes, accessories, and laundry
Alter Costumes both before and after fittings
Run chorus and super fittings in a respectful and efficient manner
Keep accurate notes for alterations, running, and packing out of the show
Inventory, label, and prepare costumes for the theatre
Liaise with IATSE Crew at the theatre
Execute notes from rehearsals
Assist in load outs and the maintenance of costume storage
Work within deadlines
Follow all Health and Safety practices