Job Title: First Hand/Stitcher
Reports to: Director of Production
Works Closely with: Resident Costume Designer and their Assistant

About Sarasota Opera
Sarasota Opera, which owns its 1926 historic theater, renovated in 2008, produces a winter festival season with four operas in repertory from January to March, and a fall season of varying size. Throughout both seasons, Sarasota Opera offers additional special events and concerts.

Position Summary
The First Hand/Stitcher is a seasonal employee who is responsible for working directly with our resident costume designer to prepare garments for Sarasota Opera's winter season. The winter season encompasses four mainstage operas running in rotating rep. The First Hands/Stitchers play a key role within a costume department that has a staff of fifteen. Including assembling of garments, assisting in fittings, doing alterations, and supervising volunteers as needed.

Duties may include but are not limited to:
▪Stitching garments
▪Supervising others in assembly of garments
▪Assisting in fittings
▪Alteration of new and existing garments

Position Requirements
The successful candidate will possess the following knowledge and skills
▪At least 3 years of experience
▪Experience in construction of period garments
▪Knowledge of tailoring and men garments
▪Ability to multitask and work in a demanding repertory environment

Dates and Pay
▪Winter Season: Early January to late March
▪Possibility of pre-season work in the Fall
▪This is a seasonal position, the rate of pay ranges from $500 to $700 per week based on previous experience.
▪Typically a 40 hour week with taxes withheld based on a W-4
▪Housing, with private bedroom and potentially shared common spaces, and travel, either round trip airfare or travel stipend are provided.

Please Note
▪We encourage BIPOC, LGBTQ+ candidates, and other historically excluded identities to apply
▪To apply send a cover letter and resume including three references to prodjobs@sarasotaopera.org with "First Hand 26-your last name" in the subject line
▪Please tell us how you heard about this posting
▪All applications are welcome, but only those being considered will be contacted.
▪For more information, visit www.sarasotaopera.org
▪EOE