Festival Intern - Costume/Wardrobe Assistant

COSTUME/WARDROBE ASSISTANT INTERN
Reports to: Costume Shop Manager and Director of Production with curricular supervision by Sr. Dir. Of Education and Community Engagement.
Classification: Seasonal - Full-time (non-exempt)
Work Schedule: Approximately May 17 - August 16, 2024; 40-hrs./week, 6 days/week on rotation.
Salary Range: $14.42/hr. plus roundtrip airfare (or equivalent travel stipend) and shared accommodations in CCO historic properties.
Location: Central City, CO with occasional work at CCO's office in Wheat Ridge, CO.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Costume / Wardrobe Assistant Internship provides hands-on, immersive experience in the world of costumes. While contributing to the behind-the-scenes work of live performance production in the historic and dynamic environment of Central City Opera during the summer festival season. As integral members of our artistic team, interns support the Costume Shop Manager and engage in various costume-related activities. This position does not directly involve wigs and makeup tasks; however, this intern will also assist with general operational duties alongside other interns.
RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Collaborate closely with the Costume Shop Manager to pull costume pieces from existing stock in Teller House and transport them to the Costume Shop, dressing rooms, or the Foundry Rehearsal Building as needed.
• Participate in the setup, cleaning, and organization of the Costume Shop and dressing rooms, ensuring they are well-prepared for fittings and performances.
• Assist in fittings as assigned by the Costume Shop Manager, Contribute to alterations and construction of garments, as well as related craft projects, under the guidance of the Costume Shop Manager.
• Work on the wardrobe crew backstage during all shows and performances, assisting with costume changes and maintaining costume integrity throughout.
• Assist with general departmental strike and cleaning at the end of the season, including restocking costume pieces to storage rooms.
• Handle laundry, repairs, and general maintenance of costumes after or between performances.
• When not serving as Costume/Wardrobe Assistant:
  • Support opening and closing procedures, including preparing rehearsal and performance spaces, housing accommodations, disassembly, and any associated light janitorial duties.
• The person in this position moves across and around Central City's mountain environment multiple times daily, including traversing steep hills, unpaved areas, and tight corners.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Candidates should be over 21 years of age.
• Possession of a driver's license is encouraged.

DESIRED SKILLS:

• Demonstrated experience with alterations, both hand and machine sewing, and a solid understanding of garment construction principles.
• Previous experience working backstage in live performing arts environments.
• Proficiency in operating washer/dryers, irons, steamers, sergers, and other related machinery commonly used in costume management.
• Strong communication skills with colleagues, including technicians and performing artists, and sensitivity to the needs and comfort of singers.

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
• Confident self-starter with solid time management skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Positive attitude and strong work ethic, even in stressful or high-pressure situations, with the ability to remain organized and meet deadlines consistently.
• Openness to last-minute changes and adjustments, coupled with the ability to be discreet and pick up social cues from performers.
• Dedication to maintaining a clean and organized work environment while respecting shared tools and resources.
• Frequently moves costumes, boxes, and supplies weighing up to 20 pounds across the Central City campus for various needs.

HOW TO APPLY:
Please either submit resume and cover letter to Central City Opera here, if these materials are available, or click HERE to fill out a simple digital form (https://forms.office.com/r/PBNJy4d3tF). This position will remain open until filled, we thank all applicants for their interest.
The responsibilities outlined in this job description serve as foundational guidelines for the position, emphasizing the intern's role in upholding organizational responsibilities and understanding the significance of prioritizing broader needs over specific departmental tasks. While it delineates the essential functions, it does not encompass all duties the employee may be required to perform.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
CCO is committed to creating and sustaining an inclusive and equitable work environment. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are core values, and we are currently working to expand our capacities in these areas with company-wide understanding that this is an ongoing process that must be embedded into the fabric of the organization. We encourage candidates who identify as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, otherwise-abled, and other underrepresented identities to apply. All applications will receive consideration for employment.