Overhire Wardrobe Crew

OVERVIEW

Founded in 1947 by Nina Vance, the Alley Theatre is a pioneer of regional theatre, and one of the leading nonprofit theatre companies in the United States. The Alley has been awarded the prestigious Regional Theatre Tony Award® and the Texas Medal of Arts Award. The Alley has transferred productions to Broadway, Off-Broadway, major European Festivals, and to 40 American cities. Unique among regional theatres, the Alley is committed to maintaining a Resident Acting Company and providing them work year-round. Nationally recognized directors, actors, playwrights, and designers from across the country have regularly joined the Resident Acting Company.  

Rob Melrose, Artistic Director at the Alley, took over as artistic leader of the organization in 2019. His vision for the future of the Alley is both thrilling and ambitious as the Theatre nears its 75th anniversary in 2021-22. Rob's strategic goals include upholding the Alley’s artistic excellence, keeping longtime Alley Theatre devotees eager to return each season, and creating productions and cultivating new audiences that are as diverse and vibrant as the city of Houston.

Rob Melrose, Managing Director Dean Gladden and the Alley’s leadership team are committed to promoting Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in all aspects of the Theatre’s programming and operations. We are conscious about fostering an environment where everyone is encouraged to bring their authentic selves. We embrace differences and strive to be inclusive of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

The Alley Theatre seeks local theatre technicians to fill Overhire crew positions. These positions are hourly, eligible for over time and hired on a per-show basis. No travel or housing compensation is available for these positions. Ideal candidates will have strong interpersonal skills, the ability to work in team-focused environments, and a desire to immerse themselves in the technical theatre process. The Alley guarantees a minimum of 32 hours per regular eight show week for all run crew positions, with an average of 50 hours during tech week.

HOURLY: $15/HR Minimum

JOB STATEMENT:

The Wardrobe Crew shall be responsible for the timely execution of costume changes and the maintenance and storage of all costumes backstage under the direction of the Wardrobe Supervisor.

JOB DUTIES:

• Assist the Wardrobe Supervisor in the preparation of costumes and dressing areas for dress rehearsals, photo calls, and performances for assigned production.  Assist actors with general dressing needs and quick changes.
• Be familiar with the show, the costume plot, and costume pieces for assigned production.
• Assist with load-in and strike of costumes for assigned production as requested by the Wardrobe Supervisor.
• Assist the Wardrobe Supervisor with the maintenance of costumes during the run of assigned shows including regular laundering, cleaning, pressing, and repairs
• Act in concert with the theatre’s safety policies, including adherence to the Alley Theatre’s current COVID-19 Safety Plan.
• Actively engage in education and development of anti-oppressive and inclusive practices and policies backstage and theatre-wide.
• Related duties as required by the Wardrobe Supervisor.

In addition to the duties listed above, the Alley Theatre expects the following of each employee: adheres to theatre’s policies and procedures; works in a safe manner; performs duties as workload necessitates; maintains a positive and respectful attitude; communicates regularly with supervisor about department issues; demonstrates efficient time management and prioritizes workload; demonstrates regular and consistent attendance and punctuality; meets department productivity standards; participates in Alley Theatre events as needed or required; and completes other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

• Familiarity with tools and equipment associated with wardrobe responsibilities (i.e. washing machines, dryers, steamers, irons, etc.).
• Knowledge of clothing care techniques and products.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, energized and quickly changing environment.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal skills with a proven ability to work independently and as a team player.
• Detail oriented, able to prioritize efficiently and multi-task in situations which may have definite timelines.
• Understanding of historical and institutional racism in the American theatre, or a commitment to learning, and to be a part of Alley Theatre’s efforts to be an anti-racist organization.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

• Prior backstage wardrobe experience in a theatre setting.
• Basic sewing and clothing repair skills, utilizing both hand and machine stitching.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Prolonged periods of standing during show performances.
• Ability to work in sometimes dark, quiet, or enclosed spaces.
• Ability to position and move oneself to assist with costume changes—sometimes quickly.
• Able to routinely move 30 – 50 lbs either independently or with assistance.
• Ability to work hours that support the technical rehearsal and performance schedule for assigned shows. 
• Typical hours are during the day, but the position requires the flexibility to be available for weekend, holidays, and evening work hours as needed. 

BENEFITS & PERKS

• Free and discounted tickets to Alley Theatre performances.
• Discounted Parking (Bi-weekly $4 dollars).

Alley Theatre is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at HRdept@alleytheatre.org.

The Alley Theatre is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital or familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status or any other basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities, veterans, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Successful candidates will commit to an equitable and inclusive workplace, including but not limited to: racial equity, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, use of gender inclusive language, and cultural sensitivity. Read more at Alley Theatre Official Website - Equity Diversity Inclusion