Draper

Boston Ballet • Boston, MA

8h • $65,000 - $70,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Boston Ballet seeks a full-time Draper to start work in mid-September to lead a team of three in constructing, fitting, and refurbishing costumes for professional ballet productions. This is an advanced level, hands-on production role requiring demonstrated professional experience in a theatrical costume shop environment. Candidates must be able to work independently, manage complex builds and fittings, and contribute immediately within a fast-paced production schedule. This is not an entry-level or apprentice position. The ideal candidate has a minimum of 4-6 years of professional draping experience in professional dance, theater, opera, or a comparable professional performance environment. Experience must extend beyond academic or student productions. In consultation with the Director of Costumes, the Draper will lead a team on projects in collaboration with other costume shop teams and production staff. Work includes new builds as well as remounts and refurbishments of existing and rented productions. The Costume Shop is a fast-paced, multi-program environment requiring strong technical skills, efficiency, collaboration, and professional-level costume production experience. Along with technical skills, the Draper must be an excellent team leader and be able to guide, delegate, and manage the workflow of their team, which includes one First Hand and one Stitcher, plus occasional Over Hire staff. Interested candidates must include links to view examples of previous draping work to be considered.

Requirements

• Minimum MFA in costume technology or comparable professional experience
• Minimum 4-6 years draping in a costume shop at a professional level
• High skill level in working with a variety of fabrics, particularly stretch fabrics
• In depth knowledge of ballet costumes, costume history, construction, and historic patterns
• The willingness and desire to learn and teach new methods
• Knowledge of machinery used in costume construction
• Demonstrated supervisory experience and leadership in a professional theater setting.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Strong problem solving, organizational, and interpersonal skills

Responsibilities

• Interpreting design sketches and creating a plan to execute the construction of the designs
• Draping, pattern making, and sewing for assigned designs
• Performing fittings of new and existing costumes on dancers of all genders
• Supervising alterations and assigned costumes
• Supervising team’s work, monitoring safety and quality of work
• Calculating yardage and supplies needed for assigned projects
• Training personnel as necessary
• Attending dress rehearsals, taking notes, and trouble-shooting backstage
• Other duties as assigned

Benefits

• BCBS HMO health insurance plan with zero deductible
• BCBS dental insurance with employer providing 100% annual premium for individual coverage
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) – health and dependent care
• Employer-paid life and disability plans
• Immediate access to 403(b) retirement savings plan featuring both pre-tax and Roth options
• Ability to purchase MBTA passes on a pre-tax, payroll deduction basis up to IRS monthly limit
• Paid time off – holidays, vacation, personal, and sick days
• Free adult dance classes
• Complimentary tickets to select Boston Ballet performances (based on availability)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior