This unionized position reports to the Costume Director or designate and is part of the Production Wardrobe team. Experience working in a repertory theatre environment is an asset.
Responsibilities:
• Interpret sketches and design references and take direction from designers to ensure all elements of costume design are realized in the final product.
• Execute the drafting and/or draping and cutting of all built costume pieces.
• Supervise the construction of all built costumes and the alteration of all other costumes, as required.
• Request and attend all fittings for assigned costumes.
• Work closely with Heads of Wardrobe to deliver finished costumes within time and budgetary constraints, including regular updates on estimated hours to complete.
• Manage workloads and timelines in a repertory schedule, including balancing the needs of multiple productions and designers simultaneously.
• Direct a team of multiple sewers and provide training, instruction, and evaluations, as required.
• Attend all meetings, rehearsals, and technical events, as required.
• Oversee regular shop maintenance tasks and liaise with Wardrobe Management to manage shop supply stock and repair requests.
• Adhere to the Stratford Festival Health & Safety Commitment and Procedures and ensure that safe work practices and policies are supported and enforced within reporting structure.
• Foster a caring and inclusive work environment consistent with all Stratford Festival policies on equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Other wardrobe duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
• Demonstrated proficiency in men’s and/or women’s garment construction, including both flat patternmaking and draping techniques.
• Professional experience working in the field of theatrical costume construction.
• Knowledge of costume history, modern and period silhouettes and how to adapt them for theatrical costumes. Familiarity with men’s soft tailoring, children’s clothing, corsetry, structural shapes, and knitwear is an asset.
• Thorough understanding of the costume design and construction processes and a working knowledge of all related aspects of theatre production.
• Ability to work productively under pressure and successfully manage the demands of multiple productions simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to manage a team professionally and effectively. Supervisory experience is an asset.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Experience working with iPads and Microsoft Office Suite is an asset.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience as a Costume Cutter in a professional theatre company, film industry or equivalent.

This seasonal position is located in Stratford, Ontario and will begin January 2025.

Job Type: Full-time Seasonal Contract