Lead Dresser

Zach Theater•Austin, TX

just now•$19 - $22•Onsite

About The Position

At Zach, we believe in the power of light—to illuminate new ideas, spark imagination, and bring people together. As Austin’s leading professional producing theater, we create vibrant, intimate theater experiences that engage, inspire, and connect our community. The Lead Dresser leads the wardrobe crew in conjunction with the Wardrobe Supervisor. The Lead Dresser ensures the correct implementation of wardrobe functions and assists in planning wardrobe tracks and assigning dresser duties. This includes supervision, and at times execution, of daily wig maintenance, hair and make-up application on actors, tracking inventory and maintaining a safe work environment.

Requirements

Minimum two years professional wardrobe experience (required)
Demonstrates organizational skills and problem solving
Able to work independently and as part of a team
Basic Sewing Skills
Basic knowledge of textiles and costume construction
Knowledge of laundering and textile cleaning techniques
Ability to work with and knowledge of wigs of different mediums, from human to synthetic
Knowledge of safety regulations and best practice
Experience leading wardrobe staff of varying experience and abilities
Willingness and ability to work within rigorous time schedule
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Willingness to learn and adapt to new situations
Ability to set priorities, meet deadlines, complete projects as assigned, and multitask
Ability to communicate orally and in writing
Ability to interact with all levels of the organization
Ability to creatively problem-solve and troubleshoot
Ability to execute tasks and complete notes given by manager, wig designer or costume designer in a timely fashion
Ability to navigate, inventory and maintain a wig and makeup supply stock and costume supply stock
Knowledge of MS Excel, Word, Access, Dropbox, Basecamp and Google.

Nice To Haves

Advanced professional wardrobe, costume, and tailoring training, or equivalent experience 1-2 years in theatrical costume shop, construction, alteration and repair (Preferred)
Experience working closely with union performers preferred

Responsibilities

Perform all duties as assigned by Stage Operations Supervisor and Wardrobe Supervisor
Acts as Lead Dresser on all main stage productions and events
Maintain order backstage and see that all work rules are followed
Collaborate with Wardrobe Supervisor in planning and creating show run sheets and planning and assigning dresser duties
Act as dresser and wardrobe crew for dress rehearsals, previews, and performances, assisting actors in quick or difficult costume changes
Assist in costume load-in and strike
Assists in preparing wardrobe areas, including quick-change booths, dressing rooms, and wardrobe maintenance room
Ensure proper care and maintenance for garments and accessories
Accounts for preset costume items for quick changes, assists actors in quick costume changes, hair and make-up application and training wardrobe crew, as needed
Assist actors with hair and make-up preparation and getting into costume as needed
Ensure proper execution of quick changes
Maintain a constant state of readiness and availability during the entire run of the show and quickly solve any urgent or unforeseen problems
Perform emergency costume repairs
Inventory all costumes post-show
Assist in laundering costumes
Monitor need for costume repairs and report to Costume Shop Supervisor and Wardrobe Supervisor via the Nightly Wardrobe Report
Maintain open lines of communication between wardrobe staff, Costume Shop Supervisor, and Stage Management
Attend additional rehearsals as assigned
Attends designer run-thrus
Attends Staff Meetings and Department Meetings as required
Maintain a supportive and engaged relationship with actors and peers