Seasonal First Hand

This is a Full Time Job

GULFSHORE PLAYHOUSE SEEKS FIRST HAND

Gulfshore Playhouse, a mission-driven, professional theatre company located in Naples, Florida, is seeking a dynamic, detail-oriented and organized individual to serve as Seasonal First Hand. Gulfshore Playhouse offers a diverse season of straight plays and musicals ranging from venerated classics and Broadway hits to contemporary works and world premieres. Gulfshore Playhouse is passionately committed to producing high-quality, professional theatre which exceeds the expectations of the cultured residents and visitors of Naples, FL, many of whom are regular theatre patrons in New York, Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.

The Gulfshore Playhouse recently opened the Baker Theatre and Education Center, a state-of-the-art facility, featuring a 350-seat mainstage with a Broadway-sized stage, a 125-seat flexible space, rehearsal studios, classrooms, and rental space. In 2022, Gulfshore Playhouse became nationally recognized as the 77th member of the League of Resident Theatres (LORT). This is an extraordinarily exciting time for the Gulfshore Playhouse, which is experiencing unprecedented growth in a collaborative and creative community.

Status: Full-time, Seasonal hourly position
Start Date: September 3, 2024 - May 18, 2025

Reporting to the Costume Shop Manager, the First Hand assists the Draper in the construction of new costumes and the preparation of stock/rental costumes for use in a production. The First Hand advises the costume technicians in the sewing and construction of costumes and assists in any related duties as needed.

The ideal individual will have a strong drive to provide high-quality work, the ability to exercise good judgment in a variety of situations, strong written and verbal communication, organizational skills, and the ability to work as part of the team. Gulfshore Playhouse values hard work, kindness, generosity, passion, and grace-under-pressure. Employees will be expected to work extended hours on occasion when necessary to meet goals. Some weekend and evening hours are required, including attendance at performances, special events, and/or meetings that may happen outside normal scheduled hours.

Skills:
• Knowledge and expertise in costume construction techniques and materials.
• Knowledge of sewing equipment and tools.
• Skills in hand sewing.
• Ability to prioritize and self-start tasks.
• Ability to work with a team and skillfully delegate work.
• Creative problem-solving.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
• Ability to manage time and productivity effectively.
• Ability to multitask and achieve tight deadlines.

Duties:
• Assist Draper in fittings, cutting, pattern making, stitching, and alterations.
• Assist in repair and maintenance of costumes.
• Complete hand and finish work as assigned.
• Prepare work for Stitcher.
• Assist Draper to determine best construction techniques.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Read all reports and act on any notes.
• May be assigned to assist wardrobe on certain productions.
• Provide assistance in other departments as needed.
• Adhere to all safety protocols at all times.
• Provide support for special events.
• Any other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
• Minimum 3 years' experience in theatrical costume construction. This includes academic and professional experience.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds of equipment.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time depending on assignment.
• Ability to work in and with proper personal protective equipment.
• Ability to safely operate shop equipment and tools.

Compensation: $19/hr (Overtime after 40 hrs)

Benefits:
• 10 days of PTO for vacation or sick leave.
• Affordable housing with furnished private bedroom and shared living space for $850 (shared bath) - $950 (private bath) per month deducted from salary. Utilities, internet, and cable included with washer and dryer in the apartment. Apartment complex has a pool and fitness center on site.

Gulfshore Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse staff; we strongly encourage people from underrepresented groups and diverse backgrounds to apply.