Costume Shop Overhire

Position Overview

Costume Shop Overhire & Wardrobe Crew (First Hand, Stitchers, Crafts, Run Crew, Wigs/Hair/Makeup)

Reports to:

Costume Shop Manager

Type of Employment:
Independent Contractor – show by show projects

FLSA Status:
Exempt from Overtime

American Stage seeks the following Overhire Costume Area positions for the upcoming production of Into the Woods. Ideal candidates are energetic collaborators motivated to join the costume shop team for our annual outdoor musical performed at Demen's Landing.

• First Hand – Ability to cut garments using commercial and shop‑drafted patterns, use tailoring skills and execute advanced sewing and construction. Strong sewing skills are required to complete garment construction and alterations. Experience with a variety of fabrics and garments is a plus. Applicants should be able to take direction and work collaboratively. Previous professional costume shop experience and/or professional sewing experience preferred.
• Stitcher(s) – Strong stitching skills to assist in building and altering costumes, along with some crafting. Applicants must work under direction in a collaborative environment. Previous costume shop experience and/or professional sewing experience preferred.
• Crafts Artisan(s) – Create costume pieces needed for shows, including hats, jewelry, footwear, armor, foam structures, mechanical costumes, puppets, masks, belts, fans, and purses. Expertise in dyeing, painting, millinery, shoe, jewelry, and mask making is required.
• Wig/Makeup Technician – Experience in wig styling and maintenance for wigs, hairpieces, and facial hair for upcoming productions. Knowledge of theatrical makeup techniques, as well as special effects makeup, is a plus. Professional theatrical experience preferred.
• Wardrobe Run & Maintenance Crew – Dressers will assist performers into and out of costumes, preset backstage changes, perform quick changes during the show, and handle post‑show resetting, laundry/cleaning, and light repair. Wig & makeup experience is a plus. Previous professional wardrobe experience preferred.

• Build Begins / Move In: 1/26
• First Rehearsal: 3/3
• Fittings: 3/4‑3/7 & 3/10‑3/14
• Designer Run: 3/15
• Tech Starts: 3/17
• Costumes Complete: 3/20
• 1st Dress: 3/21
• 2nd Dress Runs: 3/22
• Final Dress: 3/24
• Open: 3/27
• Close: 4/26
• Strike Week: 4/27

• Designer Run viewing: 3/15
• 5 days of Tech (start 3/17, details TBD)
• 25 Performances: 3/25‑4/26 (Wednesday‑Sunday)
• 5 shows for 5 weeks with curtain @ 7:30 PM
• Strike: 4/27; initial backstage following final performance & 4/28‑ Costume Shop TBD

• Costume Shop Roles: $20 hourly or flat fee (as applicable)
• Wardrobe Crew: $400 weekly rate

As an independent contractor, this position is exempt from any and all benefits that we provide full and part‑time staff. You will be expected to adhere to our organization’s code of conduct, which will be provided for review and signature prior to commencement.

Founded in 1977, American Stage is Tampa Bay’s longest‑running, critically acclaimed professional theatre, committed to its role as a vital arts leader. We pursue innovative programming, deepen community connections through high‑quality mainstage productions, our annual American Stage in the Park production, and robust education and outreach programs.

American Stage is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non‑disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

Submit the following to Sasha Church, Costume Shop Manager, at the following email address: schurch

• Resume (PDF) – including 2–3 references
• Optional – portfolio, website, and/or examples of your work appreciated

Goal to hire for this production as soon as possible by January 30, 2026. (Rolling starts following that date 2/1‑2/16 thru opening, etc.)