The Wig Lead is responsible for the creation, construction, and tech of wigs, hairstyles, and specialty makeup for OSF shows. This position also runs hair, wig, and makeup tracks.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

Creates and executes the wigs, facial hair, hairstyles, and specialty makeup as specified by the Costume Designer. The show build process includes but is not limited to fabricating wig cap construction, hand-tied wigs and hairpieces, fronting purchased wigs, prioritizing and organizing cast information, conducting fittings, recording and organizing fitting information, and creating specialty makeup solutions.
Collaborates with the costume designer to determine the look and wig and facial hair count along with actor needs on assigned productions. Determines feasible workloads given labor and material resources and collaborate with the designer and other stakeholders to create looks that are within those limits.
Communicates regularly with costume department management and designer on fitting needs, haircuts/color services and design decisions.
Models and supports the mission and values of OSF by:
Demonstrating inclusive behavior and creating an environment of belonging
Maintaining a safe and anti-racist working environment
Recognizing micro-aggressions and interrupting othering behaviors
Sets up, prioritizes, and delegates ventilating projects to wig crew members. Trains and orients run crew on the assigned show to apply and remove wigs, hairpieces, makeup, and the show maintenance routines.
Determines supplies needed for projects. Recommends, supplies, tools, and materials for general seasonal and show specific inventory. Works with management to coordinate purchasing.
Instructs and helps actors learn how to style their natural hair for shows and apply specialty makeup.
Attends technical and dress rehearsals of assigned shows as needed, takes notes, and completes alterations+mdash;assistants wig crew members in creating run sheets.
Teaches wig crew members to ventilate, build, and style wigs and natural hair.
Maintains the design and functional integrity of assigned shows throughout the season.
Participates in rotation of running productions and maintenance of wigs.
Executes wig/hair changes, including some quick changes as established through work with Wardrobe staff and Stage Management. There might be some help to wardrobe costume changes as needed but limited.
Participates in the upkeep and cleanliness of the wig rooms, stock, and common wig department areas.


Other Duties and Responsibilities:

Attends OSF, department, and show meetings as needed.
Assists in other projects as assigned by Wardrobe and Hair Manager
Notifies manager immediately of any damage to wigs or show-related incidents/issues.
Assumes all other Wig Technician Duties and Responsibilities (as needed)


Supervision Received: +nbsp;Wardrobe and Hair Manager; Wardrobe and Hair Supervisor

Supervision Exercised: none


REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Work Experience: Four years of professional experience as an Assistant Wig Lead and/or Wig and Hair Technician or a combined four years of theatrical wig making/ run crew professional experience. Bachelor+rsquo;s, advanced degree, or certification from an accredited program specializing in theatrical wig making may substitute for two years of professional experience.


Qualifications/skills:

Advanced knowledge of theatrical wig making and hairstyling. Must have advanced knowledge and experience in the following areas: ventilation, wig cap construction (closures (tops), fronts, fully hand-tied), facial hair construction, working with the full range of hair textures, and styling natural hair.
Experience in the styling and care of Black/African American and multi-ethnic hair, wigs, and wig making.
Advanced knowledge of the history of both men+rsquo;s and women+rsquo;s contemporary and period hair styles.
Moderate knowledge of makeup techniques for all skin types and excellent skills in Stage, Beauty, Fantasy, and Period makeup as well as Special Effects, Prosthetics, etc.
Advanced knowledge of styling equipment, ventilation tools, scissors and general hair care and theatrical makeup products.
Ability to estimate show costs in time and materials and prioritize work tasks for show builds.
Excellent organization and communication skills, including but not limited to show bibles, show maintenance scheduling and strike scheduling/process.
Excellent technical problem solving and building skills.