Head Dresser – Theatre

The Virgin Trial – Alberta Theatre Projects

Theatre Calgary is seeking an individual to fulfill the role of Head Dresser (Head of Wardrobe Running). The successful candidate will be responsible for providing supervision, coordination, and maintenance of a safe and welcoming environment for the onstage productions and backstage operations of Theatre Calgary, primarily working at the Max Bell Theatre.

The Head Dresser reports directly to the Production Manager and Technical Director. The successful candidate will have excellent technical and communication skills and will exhibit a keen interest and ability to work as part of a dynamic team environment. The successful candidate shall be willing to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends according to the production schedule created by management.

Theatre Calgary operates as a certified Union House with IATSE Local 212. The successful candidate will be a member in good standing or be willing to join as a full member. Theatre Calgary is also a Category “A” venue with CAEA; is a signatory to the Canadian Theatre Agreement (CTA); and is a member of the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT).

We are the resident company in the Max Bell Theatre within the Werklund Centre complex, where we primarily present theatrical plays and musical productions created and produced in-house. Seasons are typically structured with work spanning from August through June, including a summer maintenance & repair period. Theatre Calgary also occasionally produces works in other venues, and/or in collaboration with other theatres.

The Max Bell Theatre is a 55’ wide by 40’ deep proscenium stage fly house, with a capacity for an audience of up to 750 patrons. Theatre Calgary is proud to have made significant investments in cutting‑edge theatrical equipment and technology, as well as deep investments in the working culture of our team – both of which allow us to create world‑class productions right here in Calgary.

• Supports the Production Department as a whole, particularly the Technical Director and Production Manager, in the efficient management and operation of the department.
• Upholds and ensures stage safety for all personnel.
• Enforces safety policies, advises management on changes, and documents incidents.
• Collaborates on costume designs with Wardrobe Department and works with other departments for planning and installation.
• Collaborates with other Resident Theatre Companies on the efficient use of shared spaces.
• Researches and suggests solutions with other departments and creatives.
• Coordinates with other departments to streamline the production process.
• Plans and oversees safe and efficient installation, set‑up, and strike of all costume components backstage and in dressing room areas, working with management.
• Manages the tracking and execution of all changes, including quick‑changes, working with management.
• Creates and maintains show paperwork, ensuring timely and complete archiving of each production.
• Advises management on departmental needs and budget considerations.
• Ensures compliance with Theatre Calgary policies and the IATSE Collective Agreement, promoting a safe and inclusive work environment.
• Identifies and manages labour resources, adjusting schedules and budgets as needed.
• Responsible for monitoring and scheduling equipment maintenance and repairs.
• Maintains inventories and records of maintenance and repairs.
• Coordinates with management on venue requests, such as events, rentals, and tours.
• Manages the loaning or rental of equipment from the Wardrobe Running department.

• A collaborative, creative, and strategic thinker with experienced knowledge of theatre production and techniques.
• Self‑directed, able to identify and undertake a task with limited direction or information.
• Robust experience with backstage environments and wardrobe operations, including maintenance and repairs, quick changes, and working with performers of varying experience levels.
• Strong communication, organizational and project management skills; ability to switch focus and juggle competing priorities and requests.
• Positive…