Stitcher / Dresser

Central City Opera • Central City, CO

5d • $900 - $900 • Onsite

About The Position

The Stitcher / Dresser will be working in the Costume Shop with the Costume Shop Manager / Wardrobe Supervisor, two other Stitcher / Dressers, and two interns for several hours every day. In this capacity, this role will assist in the preparation and running of costumes for the 2026 Festival Season.

Requirements

• Prior experience in sewing, constructing, and altering costumes for theater, film, or fashion is required.
• Experience working in a theater environment, even in a general wardrobe or backstage role, is required.
• Understanding how different fabrics behave and how to work with them.
• Proficiency with various sewing machines, hand-stitching, and garment finishing techniques.
• The ability to fix issues that arise during the construction or fitting process.
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills with acute attention to detail
• Ability to think ahead and maintain self-driven initiative
• Ability to keep the work area clean, organized, and stocked with necessary supplies, ensuring the team is always prepared for rehearsals and performances.
• Comfortable taking direction from senior staff, such as the Costume Shop Manager, costume designers, or directors, and executing tasks accurately.
• Clear and effective communication with the production team and actors to understand and address their needs in a timely manner.
• Ability to work long hours, particularly during rehearsal periods and live performances, while maintaining focus and energy.
• Comfortable working in a collaborative setting and supporting a diverse team to ensure the success of each production.

Nice To Haves

• Having knowledge of creating and altering patterns is preferred.
• Familiarity with historical periods, styles, and costume techniques.
• An ideal candidate will be an organized and detail-oriented individual with a passion for theater. They have a strong ability to follow instructions, work efficiently under pressure, and support the team in a fast-paced environment. With an understanding of costume building, fitting, and show running, this candidate is adaptable and quick to assist with last-minute changes or adjustments. Strong communication skills, reliability, and a professional attitude are essential, as well as the ability to maintain a clean and organized work area. A willingness to be a friendly face is also key for success in this role.

Responsibilities

• Construct costumes based on designs provided by the costume designer. This includes sewing, hemming, and altering garments to ensure they fit the performers perfectly. (Note: The CCO Costume Shop does not create complete costume builds but may occasionally be asked to construct and/or source individual costumes.)
• Assist in the organization and running of costume fittings for a rotating repertory festival season.
• Assist in the organization of rented costume packages, including unpacking, tracking, and repacking.
• Mend any damaged costumes during the run of a show.
• Help performers into costumes prior to and during technical rehearsals and performances, ensuring all pieces are worn correctly.
• Organize and manage costumes during technical rehearsals and performances, making sure they are clean, pressed, and stored properly.
• Ensure costumes are washed or cleaned appropriately after each performance.
• Collaborate with the Wig & Makeup Department to ensure clear and seamless communication.
• Collaborate with the Stage Management team to ensure rehearsal costume pieces are available, and running paperwork is accurate.
• Collaborate and interact with industry professionals in the cast, crew, and staff, and comply with the instruction of Stage Management as designated by location and duty.
• Regularly clean costume workspaces.
• The person in this position moves across and around Central City’s mountain environment multiple times daily, including traversing steep hills, unpaved areas, and tight corners.

Benefits

• CCOHA will provide rent-free housing accommodations and a prepaid, round-trip air coach ticket, or its cash-equivalent, for transportation from city of residence or engagement en route and return to city of residence.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed