Totem Pole Playhouse +ndash; 2026 Wardrobe Positions
General Information
Totem Pole Playhouse, Pennsylvania+rsquo;s premier professional summer theatre, is located within the breathtaking 1,200-acre Caledonia State Park between Gettysburg and Chambersburg, PA. We are currently seeking seasonal Costume shop and Wardrobe Staff to join us for our 76th Season where we offer both Equity productions and guest presentations, including +ldquo;Tucked Away Treasures+rdquo;, as part of our summer series. The award-winning Playhouse has a stellar industry reputation, with the New York Times describing Totem Pole Playhouse as, +ldquo;the Cadillac of summer theaters.+rdquo;
The 2026 season schedule runs from May 29th through August 30th. While there may be some flexibility with start and end dates, applicants are encouraged to be available for the entire season.
2026 Summer Series Shows:
A Night with Janis Joplin
Come From Away
Oscar + Felix: A New Look at the Odd Couple
South Pacific
Karen Hester as +ldquo;Dolly+rdquo;
Tucked Away Treasure series + Summer Camp Performances
Most shows include a 2.5-day strike/load-in and three days of technical rehearsals, creating the unique+mdash;and occasionally hectic+mdash;pace of traditional summer stock theatre. When operational, Totem Pole Playhouse maintains fully staffed private scenic and costume shops. For certain staff positions, complimentary housing is available in shared staff accommodations, each offering a private bedroom. Housing locations are conveniently situated as close as 2 miles and no further than 20 miles from the work site. Limited access to company vehicles is also provided, as needed. All positions include weekly salaries. Depending on the role and responsibilities, some positions meet the threshold for overtime-exempt status, while others are eligible for overtime compensation in compliance with applicable PA labor laws.
As part of our ongoing growth, Totem Pole Playhouse is implementing several new operational approaches this season. While these adjustments are being made thoughtfully and with intention, some processes may evolve as the season progresses. We are seeking team members who are adaptable, solution-oriented, and excited to collaborate in an environment that values flexibility, communication, and creative problem-solving in the face of occasional unknowns.
Seasonal Agreement Dates:
On or around May 11th, 2025 +ndash; On or around Aug 30th 2026 (Start + End dates vary by department. Arrival waves between May 11th - 26th, Departure waves between August 2nd - 30th, 2025)
*Totem Pole Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
Stitcher:
The Stitcher supports the Costume Shop Manager in the daily activities of the costume shop and assists with the fabrication, modification, and acquisition of costumes for Totem Pole Playhouse+rsquo;s fast-paced 5-show season. This position requires a skilled, self-directed stitcher who can work independently, manage assigned projects from start to finish, and contribute to an efficient costume shop environment. The Stitcher reports to the Costume Shop Manager and works closely with the costume shop team to support the successful execution of all productions.
Key Responsibilities:
+bull; Contribute to the completion of costume packages for all productions, including construction, alterations, and repairs.
+bull; Work independently on assigned stitching projects, managing time and tasks to meet production deadlines.
+bull; Assist with the load-in and load-out of costume assets to and from dressing rooms as needed.
+bull; Pull costumes from stock and help maintain accurate costume inventory.
+bull; Support the Costume Shop Manager with special projects and seasonal workload demands as needed.
+bull; Help monitor costume shop supplies and communicate material needs.
+bull; Assist with Totem Pole Playhouse+rsquo;s +ldquo;Tucked Away Treasures+rdquo; Series and Camp Performances as needed.
+bull; Perform other duties traditionally associated with this job title in live theatrical production.
Requirements:
+bull; Demonstrated proficiency in stitching and costume construction techniques.
+bull; Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and take ownership of assigned projects.
+bull; Strong time-management and problem-solving skills.
+bull; Physical capability to work on tall ladders, lift at least 30 lbs., and manage long, physically demanding hours.
+bull; Comfort working with vintage and delicate fabrics.
+bull; Ability to collaborate effectively with the costume shop team and follow direction from the Costume Shop Manager.
