Overview

Costume and Wardrobe Manager Jobs in La Crosse at LA CROSSE DANCE CENTRE

Job Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and highly organized Costume and Wardrobe Manager to lead our costume department with enthusiasm and precision, for our 37th Annual "Nutcracker Ballet."

Position Overview

The Costume & Wardrobe Manager oversees the organization, coordination, and backstage execution of all costumes for the Nutcracker production. This role focuses on fittings, labeling, tracking, volunteer organization, dressing room setup, and wardrobe flow from early fall through closing weekend.

This is primarily an organizational leadership role with light sewing involvement. The ideal candidate is highly organized, steady under pressure, and comfortable coordinating parent volunteers in a collaborative environment.

Reports To:

  • Nikki Balsamo, Artistic Director and Owner
  • Works in close collaboration with Bryce Turgeon, Costume Designer
  • Collaborates closely with the Alterations & Fitting Manager

Key Responsibilities:

Production Coordination

  • Communicate regularly with Costume Designer Bryce Turgeon regarding costume needs, updates, and concerns.
  • Coordinate with Artistic Director Nikki Balsamo on scheduling and production timelines.
  • Maintain oversight of costume organization throughout the production process.

Fittings & Labeling

  • Coordinate and schedule fittings in collaboration with studio leadership.
  • Prepare costumes and accessories for fittings.
  • Create and manage labeling systems for each costume piece.
  • Label costumes during and after fittings.
  • Track pieces sent home for alterations and ensure timely return.

Volunteer Organization

  • Organize parent volunteers by skill level (machine sewing, hand sewing, non-sewing support).
  • Assign volunteers to fittings, steaming/ironing, labeling, and garment bag preparation.
  • Clearly communicate deadlines and expectations.
  • Maintain a positive, structured working environment.

Costume Storage & Tracking

  • Organize racks of completed costumes.
  • Prepare garment bags and dancer accessory bags.
  • Maintain accurate tracking of all costume pieces.

Tech & Performance Responsibilities

  • Prepare the costume room and studio for costume run-throughs.
  • Oversee load-in from studio to theater.
  • Organize and check in all pieces at the theater.
  • Set up dressing rooms with volunteer support.
  • Run wardrobe-related changes backstage during dress rehearsals and performances.
  • Manage emergency supplies and backstage workflow.

Strike & Post-Show

  • Oversee costume strike and load-out.
  • Coordinate laundering, restocking, and costume room reset.
  • Ensure proper storage for future seasons.

Required Skills

  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Clear communication and volunteer leadership ability
  • Basic hand sewing knowledge
  • Comfortable working with large numbers of people ages 5 through adult
  • Knowledge of garment care and laundering
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift costume racks or storage bins
  • Comfort working in fast-paced backstage environments

Preferred Experience

  • Previous theatrical or dance costume experience
  • Experience managing volunteer teams
  • Familiarity with ballet or performance costume logistics

Time Commitment

  • 10–12 hours per week (September through Thanksgiving)
  • 30–35 hours per week (Thanksgiving through performance weekend)
  • Tech week is December 4 through December 10.
  • Performances are December 10 through December 12.
  • 8–10 hours per week (2–3 weeks post-show)

Schedule Expectations:

  • Primarily weekday daytime hours early in the season
  • Select weekend availability required for scheduled fitting weekends
  • Evening and weekend availability required beginning Thanksgiving week through performances
  • Full availability required during tech week and performance weekend

Application Information:

Interested candidates should submit:

  • A brief letter of interest
  • Relevant experience
  • Confirmation of availability for tech week and performance weekend

Applications may be submitted through email to:

[email protected]

Subject: Nutcracker Costume Position, Costume and Wardrobe Manager

Local applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

Pay: $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • Employee discount

Work Location: Hybrid remote in La Crosse, WI 54603

Title: Costume and Wardrobe Manager

Company: LA CROSSE DANCE CENTRE

Location: La Crosse

 

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