POSITION TITLE: Head of Wardrobe

DEPARTMENT: Production

REPORTS TO: Director of Production

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

HSDC seeks an experienced, hands-on Head of Wardrobe. Reporting to the Director of Production, the Head of Wardrobe is a key member of the production department. Hubbard Street Dance performs in Chicago approximately three to four weeks per year in addition to touring nationally and internationally 10-15 weeks per year. The ideal Head of Wardrobe candidate can work collaboratively with production and artistic leadership to ensure consistent artistic quality.

The Head of Wardrobe is responsible for costume, hair, make-up and accessory needs for all company engagements at home in Chicago as well as out on tour; including load-in, technical rehearsals, show runs and load-outs. The Head of Wardrobe, with assistance from an overhire staff, maintains/manages all repertoires and alterations of existing inventory.

Comprised of 14 dancers, 15 fulltime administrative employees, and a part time production crew, Hubbard Street is a small, but mighty, ensemble. As a member of this team, all employees are expected to remain flexible and open to occasional projects outside of their regular scope of work.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Works in conjunction with the Director of Production, Designers, and Choreographers on the creation of new costumes to the HSDC repertoire as well as rebuilding/alterations of existing costumes and/or rentals. Design work may be included.
• Manages all wardrobe needs while the company is in performance, including but not limited to: setting out costumes, shoes, towels and accessories in dressing rooms; daily laundry; planning and assisting with quick changes; preparation of costumes for performance; ongoing maintenance; packing of all costumes, shoes and accessories. Extensive touring with the Company will be required.
• Supervises and schedules the costume department including theatre wardrobe staff, sub-contractors and third-party costume shops sub-contracted to construct costumes for the Company.
• Manages the ordering, organization, and financial tracking of Company's dancewear needs throughout the season, including but not limited to undergarments, knee pads, socks, and reherasal costumes.
• Manages and coordinates the ordering and stocking of performance shoes including all dyeing and alterations of specialty shoes. Will administer and track distribution of rehearsal shoes provided by HSDC.
• Responsible for dry-cleaning and re-stocking of costumes upon return from each tour/performance series.
• Administers the annual costume budget, including projection, re-projection, tracking and reconciliation, in concert with the Director of Production. Acts as the chief purchasing agent for all wardrobe supplies and equipment.
• Schedules costume fittings and attends studio costumed run-throughs in coordination with the Director of Production and Rehearsal Directors.
• Meets with other Artistic staff as necessary to discuss matters pertinent to the costume department and/or the Company as a whole. Maintains the shop equipment and materials.
• Plans and assists production staff in the packing of all wardrobe items and equipment for tours with the Director of Production.
• Maintains an accurate, regularly updated digital inventory, cleaning instructions, and detailed photographs of all costumes in the repertoire.
• Participates in planning and production meetings concerning new works.
• Facilitates/coordinates revenue generating projects for HSDC costumes including rentals and/or sales of existing costume inventory.

QUALIFICATIONS

• The ideal candidate should have a minimum of three years related experience with major arts organizations.
• Demonstrable experience in costume design and creation.
• Preference is given to candidates with experience in costuming contemporary dance, especially in a repertory touring setting.
• Supervisory experience in an IATSE, union, and non-union environments. Demonstrable ability to lead/train a crew and act as a successful leader in a busy construction shop.
• Literacy in a Microsoft Office environment.
• Applicants should possess strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• The ability to work productively, graciously, and in an organized manner under strict time constraints, as well as face demanding situations with tenacity and sensitivity
• Excitement to creatively troubleshoot challenges.
• Valid passport required for both domestic and international travel.
• Applicant must be able to lift 50 lbs.
• Evening, weekend, and irregular hours are required.
• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination required.

Compensation and Explanation of Benefits:

This position is non-union, full-time, salaried at $55,000/year, overtime exempt, with full benefits including a 403(b) retirement plan, employer-sponsored healthcare, sick time, personal days, and two weeks of paid vacation. Given the demands and hours common in the production industry in the United States, Hubbard Street is committed to helping all staff find a healthy and supportive schedule that seeks to balance current industry practices with personal life.

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All posted salaries are non-negotiable. At Hubbard Street, we believe that the practice of salary negotiation, while common, has contributed to the creation of wage gaps and an uneven playing field for historically disadvantaged applicants.

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in all areas of the organization's work.

Please apply through the Breezy HR portal and send a cover letter detailing your interest and qualifications, along with a professional resume (.pdfs only). No phone calls, please.