Wardrobe Crew
What does the Wardrobe Crew do?
What does the Wardrobe Crew do?
During performances WARDROBE CREW dress performers, assist with fast changes, keep track of costumes and accessories, and quickly fix costume pieces when necessary. Before the show they attend to beading, pressing, repairing and anything else required to ensure that all finishing touches are in place before the curtain goes up. Thus, the costumes look just as beautiful years into a show’s run as they do on opening night. The WARDROBE CREW can also be in charge of wig or make-up changes.
Skills
Sewing | Sketching | Drawing | Attention to detail
Pathways
Degree in costume design and/or production | Internship | Wardrobe Assistant
How to become a Part of the Wardrobe Crew
How to become a Part of the Wardrobe Crew
Many colleges and universities offer degrees and concentrations in production and design, as well as opportunities to work on official school or student-led productions. Broadway wardrobe crew members can also attend schools that focus on the creation and study of fashion and garment-making. Those just starting out may want to explore available classes, workshops, amateur productions, and volunteer opportunities available in their region for training and experience with costume designers and wardrobe departments.
Union/Professional Organization Affiliations
Resources
- Backstage’s “Welcome to the World of the Wardrobe Supervisor”
- Theatre Art Life’s “Broadway Dresser: It Ain’t All Snapping and Sewing!”
- Broadway World’s “Dressers Career Spotlight: Lauren Gallitelli”
- Playbill’s “Watch 5 Wild Quick Changes Backstage at Broadway’s Aladdin and Ain’t Too Proud”
American Theatre Wing’s “Working in the Theatre: Wardrobe”
CTG’s “Costume Shop Assistant”
WICKED The Musical’s “WICKED Costumes: Wardrobe Maintenance”