Do you have experience of leading and supervising costume teams in theatre and freelance settings? Are you an expert in pattern drafting and cutting within women's costume? Can you work across a broad range of period costume? Do you have excellent knowledge of garment construction, alteration and refurbishment?
We are looking for an experienced Head Cutter to join us on a full-time, permanent basis, in our purpose built, state of the art, in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
This is a wonderful opportunity to be part of a unique and specialist team, where costumes for all RSC shows are produced. You would be working in conjunction with the designers to realise their ideas from concept to stage.
Reporting to the Head of Costume, some of your duties and responsibilities will include (please see the Role Profile for a comprehensive list):
1. Planning workload, collaborating with the second Head Cutter ensuring work is assigned effectively across both workrooms
2. Overseeing the creative and alternation of costumes for traditionally gendered costume categories
3. Interpreting designs, cut and grade patterns and supervising the production of costumes from concept to stage
4. Leading a team of costume makers through all stages of production
5. Working with Designers, Production Managers and senior Costume colleagues ensuring work meets production schedules
6. Attending production meetings, rehearsals, and fittings to uphold standards of artistic quality, ensuring all health, safety and welfare issues are dealt with.
To be suitable for this role, it is essential that you have the following knowledge and experience:
7. BTEC, HND, or degree in Theatre Costume, or equivalent professional experience.
8. Expertise in pattern drafting and cutting, ideally with a stronger focus in one traditionally gendered costume area
9. Extensive knowledge of costume terminology and construction techniques
10. Demonstrable experience in managing, leading, supervising and coaching a team
11. Advanced proficiency in safely operating and maintaining workshop machinery.
The working hours are annually averaged at 44 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday, with some Saturdays.