Job Title: Draper
Reports To: Costume Shop Manager (CSM), Assistant Costume Shop Manager
Department: Production/Costumes
FLSA Classification: Seasonal Full-Time Non-Exempt or Temporary Full-Time Non-Exempt
Rate: $25.00 per hour, Time and a half over 40
Goodspeed Musicals is committed to cultivating an environment where equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging are experienced at all job levels throughout our organization. Goodspeed is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and aims to have a diverse staff that is representative of all theatre makers. BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), LGBTQIA+, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The terms and conditions of employment for this position are set forth in the 2025-2028 Collective Bargaining Agreement between Goodspeed and IATSE, Local 84. You do not need to be a member of the Union to apply.
General Statement of Job Function: The Draper is responsible for the safe, accurate, and timely construction and alterations of all costume elements assigned to them by the Costume Shop Manager (CSM). The Draper will supervise a First Hand and Stitcher(s) in the sewing and construction of assigned costume elements. In addition, the Draper will assist in supporting the Goodspeed Costume Rentals Team.
Principle Duties and Responsibilities:
Complete all projects assigned by CSM in an efficient, safe and timely manner while maintaining the integrity of the Costume Designer+rsquo;s vision.
Interpret costume design sketches and drawings to complete assigned costume pieces as specified by the costume designer within time and budget constraints.
Determine yardage for fabric and trims and create a list of necessary notions.
Understand construction methods and material choices for assigned projects.
Research period, styles and techniques necessary to complete costume pieces to Designer+rsquo;s specifications.
Fabricate patterns for assigned pieces.
Cut fabric based on created patterns.
Assist designers and shop manager to coordinate fitting schedule
Oversees and conducts costume fittings, ensuring proper garment fit, functionality, and adherence to design specifications
Assist in all assigned costume alterations.
Provides support in the construction of costume crafts and millinery, contributing to the creation of specialized costume elements as needed.
Supervise crew of First Hands and Stitchers.
Conducts quality control inspections on finished garments to ensure they meet the required standards.
Ability to work under pressure to achieve hard deadlines
Utilizing the provided Material Safety Data Sheets, practice safe and appropriate use of common chemical based products found in a costume shop including, but not limited to: Dye, Spray Paint, Barge, contact cement, spray adhesives, etc.
Participate in end of day shop cleaning and organization projects as needed.
Attend tech rehearsals and design meetings when requested.
Cleans and maintains costume shop equipment.
Maintain a clean, safe, respectful, and collaborative work environment.
Exhibit interpersonal savvy, which includes relating comfortably to a variety of personalities, skills and knowledge cultivating and maintaining positive relationships, employing discretion, diplomacy, and tact, seeking the positive in all situations.
Comfortably and effectively cope with change and ambiguity, which includes effectively transitioning between tasks and timelines, identifying priorities and making good decisions with a minimum of information, and staying relaxed and proactive when things are uncertain.
A commitment to an equitable work environment, which includes use of gender inclusive language, support for individual gender expression, racial equity and intergenerational collaboration, accessibility for people with disabilities, and cultural sensitivity.
Other Duties and Responsibilities:
Assist CSM and the Costume Rental Team with pulling, inventorying, maintenance and transportation of costumes for Goodspeed productions and third party rentals.
When requested and available, fill in backstage as a member of the wardrobe crew for productions in cases of illness or planned absences.
Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications + Skills: Working knowledge of costume and fashion history, Experience in theatrical costumes; Demonstrated proficiency in flat pattern making and draping; Ability to instruct others on tools, materials, techniques, and practices; Knowledge and experience in a variety of costume construction techniques and materials; Experience with domestic and industrial sewing machines and sergers; Expertise in alterations; Proficient in hand sewing; Able to repeatedly climb four flights of stairs while carrying 40 pounds; Able to work long hours during heavy build and tech periods; Periodic availability nights, weekends, and the occasional Holiday.
Preferred Qualifications + Skills: Expertise in tailoring; Interest and experience in costume crafts including dying, distressing and millinery; Valid driver+rsquo;s license with safe driving record.
How to Apply: Please send a cover letter, resume, availability and list of 3 references to jobs@goodspeed.org with the subject line "2026 Draper Application - (Insert Full Name)".
