Craftsperson/ Stitcher

JOB OVERVIEW

The Craftsperson/Stitcher is responsible for fabrication of all things assigned to them by the Costume Shop Manager. The job is a combined focus of altering and fabricating accessories paired with altering and stitching costume builds; the skills used is dependent on the needs of each production. Accessories/Craft items include but are not limited to hats, jewelry, patterns, clothes, shoes, leather, and dying of various fabrics. They will assist in the planning and scheduling of projects and what is needed to complete the build on time and in an efficient manner. The Craftsperson/Stitcher must be innovative, think creatively, be a problem solver, and work collaboratively with the rest of the Costume Shop and various Designers.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: POSITION-SPECIFIC

• Interpret designer drawings/sketches/photos/video/other media
• Collaborate with Costume Designers and Cutter/Draper to develop a clear understanding of the design to provide fabric recommendations and ensure the proper finishing of all pieces
• Communicate accurate build information to Costume Shop Manager such as: fabric yardage, notions lists, special tools, show-specific items, and labor needs per garment and/or show build to accurately determine where support is needed
• Problem solve issues/concerns relating to structure, materials, or functionality of costume pieces in collaboration with Costume Shop Manager, Cutter/Draper, and Costume Designer in order to fully realize artistic vision
• Address concerns relating to garment structure, materials, or functional use of costume pieces, and collaborate with Wardrobe head on any quick rigging logistics
• Construct and alter garments as assigned
• Distress/alter appearance of any costume piece per designer specifications using various products such as (but not limited to): dye, paint, bleach, abrasive tools
• Draft, construct, rework, repair, embellish hats, crowns, veils, jewelry, etc. per designer’s drawings so they are lightweight, durable, and the correct size for each actor
• Knowledge of various materials such as leather, metal, and thermoplastics
• Accurately research projects/history/etc. to familiarize yourself with designs

ALL COSTUME SHOP MEMEBERS

• Think creatively to help solve challenges and brainstorm ideas in a group setting
• Participate in the security, cleanliness, and organization of workrooms, tools, and storage spaces
• Uphold workroom safety by monitoring the maintenance of machines, equipment, and tools for costume-related workspaces
• Assist with checking out, restocking and general organization of stock in all spaces
• Assist in fittings and take notes as necessary
• Accurately take actor measurements
• Assist with UMKC students borrowing costume pieces for UMKC productions GENERAL
• Take instruction and give instruction that is clear & appropriately detailed
• Work interdepartmentally for items that involve multiple technical areas
• Over time, build a working knowledge of our owned inventory, shared spaces, and department standards and practice
• With advanced notice, work a flexible schedule including occasional evening, and weekend hours
• Understand and abide by all of Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s policies and procedures
• Support and uplift KCRep’s mission, vision, and values, and demonstrate a dedication to the principles of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Anti-racism (IDEA) work
• Other duties as assigned by Costume Shop Manager

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Professional theatre experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Broad knowledge of theatrical costume construction techniques and costume history
• Knowledge of sewing techniques for all time periods, of both men’s and women’s wear.
• Knowledge in basic costume shop equipment including sewing machines, sergers, dye vat, and tools,
• Knowledge of various fabrics and materials
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Dropbox, Zoom, Google Suite and able to learn other computer technology as needed
• Capacity to think both big and small picture in order to organize, prioritize, and shift tasks accordingly in a rapidly changing environment
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Self-motivated, safety-conscious, independent and collaborative worker
• Ability to lift at least 15 lbs.
• Tailoring skills preferred, but not required

ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION

Kansas City Repertory Theatre, led by Artistic Director Stuart Carden is a 60-year-old regional theater and the professional theatre in residence on the UMKC campus. The company produces a subscription season of four shows, plus annual special presentations like A Christmas Carol and a community tour in the spring. Our main performance spaces are Spencer Theatre, a 550-seat thrust stage, and Copaken Stage, a 319-seat LORT D space in downtown KC.

TO APPLY

Please submit your résumé and cover letter explaining why you would be a good addition to KCRep to: production@kcrep.org

No phone calls please.