Costume Shop Manager

Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope, PA is in search of a Costume Shop Manager. The Playhouse has become one of the leading regional theaters on the East Coast and is the largest arts organization in Bucks County. BCP presents a year-round schedule of original productions, featuring stars of stage and screen, and visiting artists presentations. Its two-acre campus includes the historic playhouse, an outdoor courtyard café, waterfall picnic area, river promenade, and a full restaurant/bar. Bucks County Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an equitable, diverse, and harassment-free environment. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, or veteran status.

About the Position

The Costume Shop Manager is a full-time position that reports to the Production Manager and is responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the costume shop, including the storage, cleaning, construction, and repair of costumes. The Costume Shope Manager is also responsible for supervising the costume budget and all costume and wardrobe employees. 

This position works intimately with the acting ensemble; as such, they should be able to handle issues with discretion, prioritize privacy, and value creating a comfortable work environment.

Key Responsibilities

General Duties

• Manage and maintain all costume shop spaces, equipment and supplies
• Oversee and maintain in-house costume stock
• Supervise, schedule, and oversee procurement of rented and/or purchased costumes
• Supervise all wig, costume and wardrobe staff including part-time/season/over hire positions
• Attend all Production Meetings, Weekly Department meetings, and Playhouse All-Staff Meetings
• Other duties pertaining to the key functions of the job and/or department as assigned
• Maintain a safe, inclusive working environment in accordance with the Playhouse’s commitment to creating an equitable, diverse, and harassment-free environment.

Show Related Duties

• Work directly with the Costume and Wig design teams to establish priorities and manage expenses within time, labor and budget constraints

• Attend all fittings in coordination with Costume Designer and Stage Management
• Perform and supervise a variety of duties in the construction of costumes for productions including fittings, alterations, and repairs.
• Be present for all technical rehearsals, and available during performances leading up to opening and/or the first public performance of each BCP produced work
• Supervise costume strike, overseeing the cleaning and return of all rental costumes and return and reorganizing of BCP stock

Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Experience in professional theatre production
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and crews simultaneously
• Costume construction, alteration, and maintenance skills, including laundering, repairs, and dry-cleaning coordination
• Experience running wardrobe tracks and backstage quick changes
• Working knowledge of hair, makeup, and related products
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to create schedules and meet deadlines
• Ability to remain calm under pressure, solve problems, and navigate conflicts effectively
• Familiarity with Actors' Equity Association (AEA) agreements and work rules
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills
• Commitment to supporting artists and creative teams in a positive, team-oriented environment
• High level of discretion, attention to detail, and follow-through
• Adaptable, resourceful, and able to respond to changing production needs

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and performance hours
• Comfortable working backstage in low-light environments and around loud sounds, flashing lights, and other theatrical effects
• Comfortable assisting performers with costume changes, including occasional professional physical contact
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation, or other dependable means of transportation
• Ability to travel occasionally, including trips to New York City
• Ability to navigate a multi-level facility, including workspaces accessible only by stairs
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds, including on stairs
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Disclaimer
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and responsibilities of the position and is not an exhaustive list of duties. Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed to support organizational and production needs. Any substantial or permanent changes to the position will be reflected in an updated job description.