Costume Shop Manager

This position requires a skilled individual with experience in clothing construction, including working with commercial patterns, fabrics, sewing techniques, and using various construction equipment. The Costume Shop Manager will possess strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills, along with proficiency in computer applications, particularly the Google Suite. 

Reports to: Production Manager

Hours: Full Time Exempt / Evening and weekend availability required

To Apply: Please submit your resume and a cover letter to wdrummond@duluthplayhouse.org with the subject line "Costume Shop Manager - Full Name"

Key Responsibilities:

• Costume Shop Management & Organization:
  
  • Oversee and maintain an organized, clean, and efficient work environment in both the costume shop and storage facilities.
  • Ensure that all costume inventory is properly stored, cataloged, and easily accessible for production needs.
• Costume Construction & Production Support:
  
  • Lead the timely and high-quality construction of costumes for all Duluth Playhouse productions, including mainstage, youth, and black box performances.
  • Collaborate with designers to ensure the accurate realization of costume designs, providing input when necessary on feasibility, fabric selection, and costume construction.
  • Ensure that all costumes, wigs, shoes, and accessories are properly cleaned, repaired, and restocked post-production.
• Coordination with Wardrobe & Production Teams:
  
  • Work in close collaboration with the Wardrobe Manager and Costume Designer to coordinate the "strike" process after performances, which includes dry cleaning, repairs, restocking, and resetting of costumes.
  • Oversee the timely delivery and set-up of costumes for all performances and ensure costume fittings are scheduled appropriately.
• Maintenance & Supplies:
  
  • Maintain and ensure the proper functioning of sewing machines, sergers, and other equipment, including washers and dryers.
  • Restock sewing supplies and order new materials as needed, ensuring that all necessary tools are in good working condition.
  • Replace equipment that is no longer usable and maintain an updated inventory of tools and materials.
• Actor Measurements & Costume Alterations:
  
  • Keep an up-to-date record of actor measurements, ensuring accurate fittings for each production.
  • Approve and manage alterations on costumes from the Playhouse’s stock, ensuring they meet the design specifications and are executed within production timelines.
• Purchasing & Inventory Management:
  
  • Place orders for costumes, fabrics, and supplies as needed, ensuring timely delivery.
  • Submit receipts and track expenses, managing returns and exchanges as necessary to stay within the budget.
• Volunteer Coordination & Engagement:
  
  • Recruit, instruct, and oversee costume shop volunteers, providing training and guidance for costume construction and alterations when needed. 
  • Coordinate volunteer appreciation efforts, ensuring volunteers receive event tickets and are invited to special activities that celebrate their contributions.
  • Ensure that costume shop volunteers are properly acknowledged in show playbills for their efforts, fostering a positive and inclusive experience.
• Collaboration & Communication:
  
  • Participate in production meetings, design meetings, and technical rehearsals as required.
  • Collaborate with the Costume Designer and Wardrobe Manager to coordinate tours of costume spaces and inventory.
• Additional Duties:
  
  • Assist in the transport of costumes between the Duluth Playhouse and NorShor Theatre.
  • Contribute to the overall success of the production team by being an active participant in spontaneous meetings and creative problem-solving.
  • Other duties as assigned

Work Environment: Duluth Playhouse is an interactive, fast-paced, and dynamic environment where departments collaborate closely. The Costume Shop Manager must be adaptable and comfortable with the evolving needs of each production while maintaining a strong leadership presence in the costume shop.‍

Equal Opportunity Employer: Duluth Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer, committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming environment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.