The American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, VA is seeking COSTUME DESIGNER(S) for our 2024 Summer/Fall Season and for Future Consideration.

The ASC was formed in 1988 in Central Virginia, and in 2001 the Blackfriars Playhouse was built – the world’s only recreation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre.

Currently Playing:
  • JULIUS CAESAR
  • A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
  • PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
UPCOMING SUMMER/FALL and HOLIDAY 2024 SEASONS:
  • THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (abridged) [revised] (again)
  • MACBETH
  • THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
  • THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR

(designer positions currently filled for all shows listed above)

DRACULA: A COMEDY OF TERRORS**
**Seeking COSTUME DESIGNER
Rehearsals begin: 09/19/2024
Opening: 10/18/2024

A CHRISTMAS CAROL**
**Seeking COSTUME DESIGNER
Rehearsals begin: 10/29/2024
Opening: 12/07/2024

JOB DESCRIPTION:
  • Prepare costume designs during the pre-production period, working with ASC Artistic Staff, Director, and Costume Shop Manager. Complete designs before rehearsal period begins.
  • Participate in on-line production discussions and pre-production meetings (over Zoom).
  • Attend scheduled production meetings, read-thru, first (or early) run-throughs, and dress-tech and dress rehearsals for the production.
  • Designers must be available during regular rehearsal hours for fittings and to work HANDS-ON the costume team during the building and fitting process.
  • Designer must be on time for all meetings and fittings.
  • Present costume designs to actors and staff at first rehearsal.
  • Have shoes and rehearsal clothes available by the first rehearsal.
  • Schedule fittings with the Costume Shop Manager and/or Stage Manager as far as possible in advance.
  • Before the first dress rehearsal, supply actors, Wardrobe Supervisor(s), Stage Manager(s), and Costume Shop Manager with complete costume inventory. Inventory will include all costumes and costume pieces organized by actor and will include the description of each item, daily care instructions, laundering/cleaning instructions, and any other notes for the actor/wardrobe manager about each garment.
  • Have all costumes, shoes, and accessories ready for the first dress tech rehearsal of the production. Be available before rehearsal begins to set up and meet with the actors (if needed). Be available after the dress rehearsals for notes with the director and actors.
  • All final alterations, trims, corrections, etc. must be completed by the opening night of the production.
  • Include provisions in the design for fabric that is easily maintained and resists wrinkling, and by reinforcing armhole and seat seams, secure hems and over-locked or otherwise secured seams.
  • Provide for a washable barrier undergarment (t-shirt and dress shields, if needed) and backup, as well as backup tights/socks, all labeled with actors’ initials.
  • Provide detailed accounting and receipts for costume materials purchases. All expenses must be within the provided budget for the production.
  • Take care to maintain neatness when using shop and stock resources.
  • Reports directly to Costume Shop Manager and Production Manager
Compensation:

Flat Fee of $3,500 per show (per title).
Housing available for out of town applicants.
Travel Stipend / reimbursement available.

TO APPLY:

If interested, please email Thomas J. Coppola (Production Manager) with “ASC 2024 COSTUME DESIGNER SUBMISSION” in the subject line. Please include your updated resume, any available digital portfolio/website, and a brief letter of interest.

Send to: Artistic@AmericanShakespeareCenter.com

The American Shakespeare Center is committed to anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices. Our goal is to implement best practices that maintain a healthy company culture and ethos that is welcoming to all who want to join this theatre. Members of the BIPOC, LGBTQ and/or other under-represented communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Thank you.