Position: Wardrobe Assistant Cover

Reports To: Wardrobe Supervisor

Classification: Part-Time, Seasonal, Non-Exempt



Theatre Overview

As one of the country+rsquo;s largest ensemble theatres dedicated to the creation of new work, Lookingglass Theatre Company seeks to redefine the theatrical experience and to make theatre more exhilarating, inspirational, and accessible to all. Founded in 1988 by a group of Northwestern University theatre graduates, Lookingglass moved into its permanent home in the historic Water Tower Water Works on Chicago+rsquo;s Michigan Avenue in 2003. Now in its 36th Season, the Company is a respected source for story-centered theatrical work that is evocative, physical, and visually rich.



With a roster of 33 Ensemble Members and 17 Artistic Associates, Lookingglass productions are centered on ensemble with training in theatre, dance, music, and circus arts. Through its powerful, original theatre, the Company's goal is to fire the imagination with love, to celebrate the human capacity to taste and smell, weep and laugh, create and destroy, and wake up where we first fell+mdash; changed, charged, and empowered.



At Lookingglass we believe that the quality of work on our stage is inseparable from the health and happiness of the people who make it happen. In pursuit of more sustainable ways of working and life-work balance for all our production participants, we have implemented the following: a 5-day rehearsal week (6 days during tech/previews); a 7 out of 8.5 hour span of rehearsal day during tech; and robust coverage of roles by understudies, crew covers, and assistants so that if and when someone needs to step away from the process to take care of themselves, they can do so without guilt or fear.



Position Summary

A member of the backstage crew and reporting to the Wardrobe Supervisor, Wardrobe Assistant Cover will collaborate with the Floor Manager and Stage Management team to learn up to two backstage tracks, including but not limited to preparing and executing all backstage and onstage wig and costume changes, presets, handoffs, repairs, and laundry during the performance run of LTC+rsquo;s productions.



The Wardrobe Assistant Cover will be enthusiastic, detail-oriented, and reliable member of the backstage team. They will work closely with actors, crew, designers, and production staff to ensure the safe, smooth, and consistent running of all performances and to shepherd a production process that is focused on supportive, sustainable, and anti-racist practices.

Wardrobe Assistant Cover will be provided with a minimum of three training shifts prior to running a full track before an audience unaided, as well as with all the necessary paperwork and training on specialty items required for said track. During the regular performance run Wardrobe Assistant Cover will be scheduled for a minimum of two performances each week and will be called to substitute for additional performances in emergency situations. Wardrobe Assistant Cover agrees to be +ldquo;on call+rdquo; by telephone 45 minutes prior to each public performance, and shall be in such condition that if called, Wardrobe Assistant Cover will be able to work.



Duties

Learn and run multiple wardrobe tracks for each production. As part of these tracks, Wardrobe Assistant Cover may also be called upon to assist the Deck Crew in executing scenic shifts or other moments of staging which require additional hands.

Complete daily laundry and maintenance routines for costume items, hair, and makeup as directed by Wardrobe Supervisor, Costume Director, and Costume Designer.

Complete minor costume/wig repairs and +ldquo;touch-ups+rdquo; during run of show.

Communicate any and all costume notes to Wardrobe Supervisor and Costume Director.

Maintain a clean and orderly backstage area.

As assigned, wear costume elements provided by Lookingglass during the performance of Wardrobe duties. Wardrobe Assistant Cover may be expected to appear onstage and assist in costume changes in view of audience members.

Participate in organization-wide anti-racism work and incorporate an anti-racist lens into daily practice. Lookingglass recognizes that it has much to do towards being an anti-racist and a more equitable institution. We believe that our work and our lives are infinitely more complex, rewarding, illuminating, and nearer to truth when we have a wider variety of human experiences in our room, at our table, and on our stage.  This work, by the Board, Ensemble, and staff, is ongoing.

Qualifications

Demonstrated wardrobe experience of at least 1 year at collegiate or professional level.

Ability to ascend/descend stairs and move equipment or costumes weighing up to 30 pounds.

Intermediate Hand Sewing experience.

Intermediate Machine sewing experience.

Outstanding attention to detail.

Ability to excel in fast-paced, quickly changing environment.

Excellent communication skills.

Exposure to special FX items such as blood, prosthetics, and specialty makeup.

Experience styling human hair, as well as human hair wigs and synthetic wigs.

Be punctual, professional, and work well as a member of a team.



Schedule Overview

Circus Quixote

Anticipated Start Date: Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Closing: Sunday, March 30, 2025



Iraq, But Funny

Anticipated Start Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Closing: Sunday, July 20, 2025



Compensation

This position is paid $23/hour with a guaranteed weekly minimum of $345 during run of show, based on an anticipated 15 hours of work across 3-4 shifts/week. OT begins after 40 hours/week and is paid at time and a half.



Benefits

Chicago Paid Sick Leave ordinance: Any employee who works at least 80 hours for an employer in Chicago within any 120-day period is covered by the ordinance and eligible. For every 40 hours worked, employee will accrue one (1) hour of paid sick leave.



Application Procedure

To be considered, please send resume and three references to jobs@lookingglasstheatre.org with +ldquo;WARDROBE ASSISTANT COVER APPLICATION+rdquo; in the subject line. You may optionally include a cover letter or link to introductory video/audio file to further detail your interest and qualifications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.



We welcome applications from all qualified applicants and encourage you to apply even if you don+rsquo;t meet all of the qualifications listed above. Studies have shown that individuals from marginalized communities (e.g. women, queer folks, and people of color) are less likely to apply unless they meet every qualification. Lookingglass Theatre Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values a diverse workforce. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, genetics, or status as an individual with a disability.