Apprentice Costume Technician Running Wardrobe

Basic Duties:

Under the direction of NT Staff, learn all disciplines related to Running Wardrobe – Costume Maintenance (High levels of ironing and steaming for example), Laundry skills, Repair, Alteration and Dressing (including pre-setting. Quick Changes and area maintenance) Attend dress rehearsals where possible of shows you are not taking an active role in. Work to agreed deadlines, consulting always with the Wardrobe Supervisor or the Head of Running Wardrobe. Work in all locations related to the wardrobe running of the show – Wardrobe, Backstage Areas including Substage, Dressing Rooms, Laundry, other Costume areas and be prepared to have to travel outside the theatre for things such as going to the cobblers. Maintain exacting standards of operations and good housekeeping of all Wardrobe areas. Participate in the provision of a safe working environment, always acting within the company’s Health & Safety policy. Carry out any other reasonable duties as requested by the Wardrobe Manager.

At the NT you will be supported by a dedicated Mentor, At all times you will be expected to:

Take responsibility for being on time and always working safely and considerately. Behave professionally, including keeping workspaces neat and tidy. To work at height and sometimes in small spaces, training will be given to you before you do this. You will need to be flexible towards working evenings and weekends as this is where working on the performances will occur.

Training:

The apprentice will spend 6 hours a week completing off-the-job training with Creative Alliance. 

The majority of this will be completed through in-person workplace observations at the apprentices' place of work.

Training Outcome:

The Costume Technician – Running Wardrobe apprenticeship is designed to be the first step in working in theatre or going on to further study. Although we cannot guarantee that this apprenticeship will lead to a permanent post, this is an area of specialisation where the correct level of skill is often overlooked. Somebody trained to manage the Running Wardrobe elements of a production should be welcomed into any Wardrobe department across all kinds of disciplines, (Opera, Ballet, Plays, Musicals, Events).

Employer Description:
The National Theatre (NT) makes theatre that entertains and inspires using its creativity, expertise and unique reach. We share unforgettable stories with millions of audience members across the UK and around the world – on our own stages, on tour, in schools, on cinema screens and streaming at home. World-leading artists make their best work at the NT with the widest possible audience and impact.

Working Hours :
Working week: Hour per week: 40 (including late evenings and weekends with some possible overtime required). Days and times to be confirmed.

Skills:
Communication skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Logical,Team working,Creative,Initiative