Head of Wardrobe

Company Overview

Vertigo Theatre, based in Calgary Alberta, is the premiere Theatre company focused on the intrigue genre (horror, thriller, mystery, suspense, noir, crime, courtroom, political drama). Moving into its 48th Season, Vertigo produces a 5 play season that runs from September to June, working out of its current home at the base of the Calgary Tower, and operating three spaces, including its 350 seat Mainspace, a 150 seat Studio, and a workshop/rehearsal hall. With a large and loyal audience base, Vertigo is one of Canada’s most successful and supported theatres, welcoming over 50,000 patrons a season.

Job Description

About the Position

Vertigo Theatre seeks to fill the position of Head of Wardrobe for its 2024-2025 season. Reporting to the Technical Director and the Production & Facilities Manager, The Head of Wardrobe is responsible for sourcing and/or building all costume items needed for the productions.

The ideal candidate is a dynamic, collaborative team member with a passion for textile arts and design with a proven track record of collaborating with a costumes team and using costuming to bring characters to life. 

Responsibilities include:

• Creating pre-production budget estimates for each production and identifying elements that might create pinch points, such as large builds or custom pieces, through a reading and interpretation of the show scripts along with an understanding of working within budget constraints.

• Preparing Budget estimates for the design provided by the costume designer and managing the budget in conjunction with the Production Manager

• Coordinating all costume elements under the direction of the Costume Designer, including preparing working drawings as necessary, providing estimates if required, and purchasing, borrowing, and returning costumes for the production on behalf of Vertigo Theatre.

• Attending Production Meetings, Design Meetings, Rehearsals, and Technical Runs as required.

• Liaising with Stage Management to schedule fittings, establish rehearsal requirements, do costume tracking, and create running paperwork.

• Hiring and supervising additional labour required for completion of all costume items.

• Being available on reasonable notice for repair or replacement of the costumes throughout both the rehearsal and run of the show.

• Keeping detailed paperwork of all costumes including tracking, care, and returns.

• Attending the Strike, managing final laundry requirements, and returning borrowed items.

• Maintaining and keeping organized the Vertigo Costume office, costume storage spaces, and restocking and/or repairing items as required.

• Following Health and Safety Policies, and enforcing them within the Wardrobe Department.

Skills and Requirements

The ideal candidate will have experience with:

• Interpreting Designer renderings

• Budgeting costume designs

• Costume construction, including but not limited to period pieces, suits, and dresses

• Wigs and wig styling and maintenance

• Makeup for the stage

• Shopping for characters

• Fittings and Alterations

• Working with a Stage Management Team

• Strong interpersonal skills are necessary to ensure that actors are at ease during the costuming process and comfortable in their costumes 

Qualifications

• Excellent communication skills

• Ability to take direction & work independently

• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License (or equivalent) 

• Comfortable using sewing machines and wardrobe equipment

• First Aid Certification 

• A degree in Textile Arts or Theatre Arts and Production is an asset

Hours

• 35 hours per week with some evenings and weekends required.

• This position is subject to an Averaging Arrangement as per Alberta Labour Code. Periods of heavier work will be balanced with lighter periods. Any hours over the Averaging Arrangement will be paid out at the end of the contract period. 

• Hybrid work including work-from-home is encouraged where possible. 

Contract Dates 

August 12, 2024 - June 20, 2025

Compensation

• $39,1375 - $47,250 for the contract period, based on experience, paid bi-monthly

• 4% Vacation pay paid out on each paycheque as applicable

• Extended Health and Dental plan after 3 months with cost shared 50/50 between employee and employer

• Access to building amenities, including Fitness Centre, Tenant Lounge, and secure Bike Lock-Up

• Professional development opportunities