Theatre Costumer - Westonka High School Theatre

Theatre Costumer Les Misrables:
School Edition

Westonka High School Theatre is seeking a creative and organized Theatre Costumer for our upcoming production of Les Misrables:
School Edition. This sweeping musical, set in nineteenth-century France, explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the power of compassion. Our production approach treats Les Misrables as a full-company production, requiring a significant commitment to costuming a large ensemble that transitions through multiple tracks, including workers, factory girls, townspeople, students, revolutionaries, and wedding guests.

Role Summary

The Theatre Costumer is responsible for the visual realization of characters through clothing and accessories. This role involves designing, sourcing, constructing, and maintaining costumes that reflect the "gritty" nature of 1800s France while ensuring all choices remain appropriate for a high school setting and district expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design & Sourcing Period Research:
  Create a cohesive visual world for 19th-century France, ranging from the destitution of the Chain Gang to the formal attire of the wedding guests.
• Strategic Sourcing:
  Manage the acquisition of costumes through a mix of building, borrowing from area partners, and renting.
• Ensemble Coordination:
  Manage costuming for two distinct ensemble tracks: the Full Production Ensemble (multiple roles) and the Finale Ensemble.
• Production Management Budgeting:
  Work within the production budget to prioritize high-impact pieces, such as period uniforms for the Constables and Javert.
• Fittings & Alterations:
  Schedule and execute fittings for all principal and ensemble members to ensure safety, comfort, and appropriate stage presence.
• Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with the Director and Vocal Director to ensure costumes allow for necessary movement and vocal performance.
• Performance Support Maintenance:
  Oversee the cleaning and repair of costumes throughout the technical rehearsal period and performance run.
• Strike:
  Lead the organized return of all rented or borrowed pieces and the proper storage of school-owned items.

Qualifications

Experience in theatrical costume design or management, preferably in a high school or community theatre setting. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage a high volume of pieces for a large cast. Understanding of the specific needs of Les Misrables:
School Edition, including maintaining the emotional impact of the story while handling mature themes (e.g., Fantine's arc) with respect and age-appropriate staging. Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse production team and student performers.

Production Timeline

Rehearsal Period September November 2026

Tech Week November 4 - 12, 2026

Must have availability:
November 11 & 12

Performances November 13, 14, 15, 20 - 22, 2026

Compensation: $1,366 (base) + additional compensation for experience possible

Location:

Westonka High School & Westonka Performing Arts Center

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