SEATTLE REP is seeking a highly skilled Draper/Tailor to join the Costume Department Team. The Draper/Tailor is a critical member of the Costume Department, and provides essential support for our high quality productions.   

ABOUT US

Seattle Rep is committed to producing the highest quality programming, and we believe that our ability to contribute to excellence in the arts depends on building a community whose members come from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and life experiences.

We are part of a growing movement in theater to ensure inclusion of those who have been excluded historically; focusing particularly on racial and ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities and women, ensuring they are at the decision-making table and reflected in our community.

Mission

Seattle Rep collaborates with extraordinary artists to create productions and programs that reflect and elevate the diverse cultures, perspectives, and life experiences of our region.

Vision

Theater at the heart of public life

Values

Artistic Vitality, Sustainability, Generous and Inclusive Practices

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Draper/Tailor is responsible for the interpretation of two-dimensional drawings, creating patterns and supervising the construction and alterations of costumes for Seattle Rep productions within the guidelines set by the Costume Designer.

Typical duties include

Design support

• Interprets two dimensional drawings and research in consultation with the Costume Designer, Design Associate and Costume Director.
• Drapes/Drafts patterns, cuts and assembles costumes, for both mock-ups and fabric into garments;
• Determines construction techniques and methodology; and communicates to First Hands and Stitchers.
• Determines time and labor required to complete projects, along with the Department Director.

Supervising

• Supervises and motivates First Hands and Stitchers to ensure timely completion of projects.
• Determines time and labor required to complete projects, along with the Department Director.

Collaborating

• Helps Design Associate and Costume Director determine & coordinate scheduling for fittings.
• Attends and performs fittings and takes notes needed for their projects.
• Helps determine materials, in a timely fashion, needed for projects.
• Communicates garment maintenance to Design Associate and Wardrobe.
• Works with Wardrobe and Design Associate to ensure best rigging for quick changes.
• Attends dress rehearsals as required and as assigned.

Department health

• Helps ensure adequate costume shop inventory, along with the department heads.
• Assists in other projects as assigned by Costume Director.
• Attends meetings pertinent to production, costumes, all Seattle Rep staff and EDI work.
• Helps to maintain a respectful work environment.

MINNIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Skills and working knowledge of professional drafting/draping, sewing techniques and materials acquired through formal education and/or work experience.
• Four years of tailoring and/or draping experience in professional theatre.
• Working knowledge of various fabrics and their characteristics.
• Working knowledge of industrial sewing machines, irons, and measuring tools and appropriate safety techniques.
• Basic math skills.
• Ability to stand for long hours.
• Must be a current member of the Theatrical Wardrobe Union, Local #887 or eligible to register with Local #887  prior to or upon being hired by Seattle Rep.
• Commitment to racial equity and social justice.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to actualize a designs vision.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to be flexible; working under sometimes hectic conditions while producing quality work.
• Ability to work independently as well as with others.
• Ability to work well in stressful, time sensitive conditions, while helping to maintain a respectful work environment.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Knowledge of fashion and costume history, fashion trends, designer styles, and social history.
• Good rapport with actors.
• A sense of humor

TO BE CONSIDERED

1. Submit a resume detailing related experience and education.
2. Include a link to a portfolio of relevant work.

Seattle Rep has a mandatory vaccination policy for all employees, with accommodations for medical and religious exemptions only.

Contact hr@seattlerep.org with any questions regarding the application process.