Summary
This is a full time / seasonal job working the production year (36 or 37 weeks) from mid-August to the end of April annually. The posted salary listed of $46,800 – $52,000 FTR would be the full time, 12-month salary (The seasonal salary range is $32,400- $36,000 per season, or $22.50 – $25.00 per hour).
NOTE: To be considered for this position you must include a cover letter specifying their interest in and qualifications for this position. The cover letter is the first page of your resume and uploaded as one PDF document.
As a comprehensive performing arts school set in one of the world’s finest public institutions of higher education, the School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD) is engaged in the creation, practice, scholarship, and pedagogy of music, theatre, and dance. We aim to provide leadership, nationally and internationally, in all three fields. We assert and celebrate the value of the arts to the mission of the University of Michigan. SMTD is committed to sharing values of diversity and inclusion, especially regarding historically underrepresented individuals, to sustain excellence. In the costume shop, this work includes promoting an inclusive space welcome to all, and continuing a dialogue surrounding issues of identity, image, and self-esteem.
University Productions presents ten mounted main stage shows each season, serving the departments of Theatre & Drama, Musical Theatre, Dance, and Voice in three different venues. These productions are directed by faculty and guest directors; designed by faculty, students, and guests; and crewed by performance and design and production majors. Design & Production majors work as stage managers, shop assistants, and technicians for each production; experienced students may design costumes, sets, or lighting for these productions.
Responsibilities*
Fabricate costumes and provide associated costume-construction services for the approximately 10 productions per academic year produced by University Productions for the Theatre, Dance, Musical Theatre, and Opera departments. You will report to the costume shop manager. The assistant shop manager gives advice on draping and cutting according to the designs of the costume designer within the parameters of the production budget.
- Drape, pattern, cut, and fit costumes, as assigned by the costume shop manager, according to the designs of the costume designer within the parameters of the production budget.
- Fit and alter costumes rented or from stock, as assigned by the costume shop manager, according to the images of the costume designer within the parameters of the production budget.
- Calculate yardages and labor requirements to assist costume shop manager in budgeting.
- Measure performers and enter measurements into the computer database.
- Coordinate fittings with the costume designer, shop manager and performers. Provide crafts artisan with any notes that may have been generated during a fitting.
- Assign specific tasks to stitchers, work-study students and other student assistants in the job pool. Help with the stitching of costumes when needed.
- Help train student assistants on specific tasks in the practical aspects of costume construction and theatrical practices while the students are engaged in labor in the shop, or while they are on running crews (faculty will advise on aesthetics).
- Coordinate and partner with other shop staff to meet production deadlines. Ensure that all assigned costumes are ready for use at each first dress rehearsal. Attend the first dress rehearsal with the costume designer to organize final adjustments before the opening of a production.
- For assigned performers, compile and computer-enter costume inventory lists, including laundry and other care instructions, to be used in wardrobe running sheets.
- Help with laundry, clean-up, and returning costumes to inventory storage after strike.
- Help with the storage and maintenance of costumes in stock. Help with the cleaning and maintenance of costume shop equipment and inventory.
- Occasionally assist with costume crafts as directed by costume shop managers.
- Assure safe work practices and compliance with MIOSHA regulations. Alert supervisors about potentially unsafe conditions.
- When interacting with a diverse range of knowledgeable and passionate artists, confidently and sensitively respond to a variety of interpersonal styles.
- Understand the values of diversity and the importance of inclusion and have the ability to work with people from different cultures and communities. An understanding of historical and institutional racism in American theatre, and/or a commitment to learning and joining the School of Music, Theatre & Dance’s efforts to be an anti-racist organization is necessary.
- Help with the specification and recommendation of new equipment or the modification of existing equipment to meet operational or special production needs.
- Help with occasional special projects and facility improvements when requested.
- This position involves traveling to various locations across campus to conduct assessments and deliver materials.
- This position routinely moves materials weighing up to 30 pounds across campus for various needs.
Required Qualifications*
- A Bachelor’s degree in costuming with an emphasis on costume construction is necessary.
- Three years as a cutter/draper with a recognized professional company or university is necessary.
- A background in costume draping, cutting, fitting and general construction is necessary.
- Experience working with individuals from diverse communities and cultures is necessary.
- Some experience in costume crafts, make up, and wigs is desirable.
- Some experience with stretch fabric and dancewear is desirable.
- Some management experience is desirable.
Background Screening
A pre-employment background check must be conducted before a candidate may receive a firm offer of employment to a staff position at the University of Michigan.
U-M EEO/AA Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
229417
Working Title
Cutter/Draper
Job Title
Theatre Artisan/Technician
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Nonexempt
Organizational Group
School Music
Department
SMTD University Productions
Posting Begin/End Date
3/16/2023 – 4/10/2023
Salary
$46,800.00 – $52,000.00
Career Interest
The Arts