Job DetailsJob Location 615 - Houston, TX Position Type Full Time Salary Range $22.00 Hourly POSITION: First Hand DEPARTMENT: Costume Department CLASSIFICATION: Full-time/ Hourly / Non-Exempt SUPERVISOR: Costume Director OVERVIEW Founded in 1947 by Nina Vance, the Alley Theatre is a pioneer of regional theatre, and one of the leading nonprofit theatre companies in the United States. The Alley has been awarded the prestigious Regional Theatre Tony Award and the Texas Medal of Arts Award. The Alley has transferred productions to Broadway, Off-Broadway, major European Festivals, and to 40 American cities. Unique among regional theatres, the Alley is committed to maintaining a Resident Acting Company and providing them work year-round. Nationally recognized directors, actors, playwrights, and designers from across the country have regularly joined the Resident Acting Company. Rob Melrose, Artistic Director at the Alley, took over as artistic leader of the organization in 2019. His vision for the future of the Alley is both thrilling and ambitious. His strategic goals include upholding the Alley's artistic excellence, keeping longtime Alley Theatre devotees eager to return each season, and creating productions and cultivating new audiences that are as diverse and vibrant as the city of Houston. Rob Melrose, Managing Director Dean Gladden and the Alley's leadership team are committed to promoting Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in all aspects of the Theatre's programming and operations. We are conscious about fostering an environment where everyone is encouraged to bring their authentic selves. We embrace differences and strive to be inclusive of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. JOB STATEMENT The First Hand assists the Cutter/Draper in the preparation, alteration, and construction of costumes for use in Alley Theatre productions. Additionally, the First Hand helps the Cutter/Draper with the delegation of costume construction projects and supervision of full-time and overhire Stitchers. JOB DUTIES
- Work with the Cutter/Draper to organize and manage workflow by preparing and delegating projects for full-time and overhire Stitchers.
- Research any period styles, construction practices, or methodologies and develop ideas or samples for the Cutter/Draper, as requested.
- Assist the Cutter/Draper by supervising and instructing Stitchers in the construction, alteration, and completion of assigned costumes; provide guidance or training, as needed.
- Complete assigned projects in an efficient manner, while maintaining the integrity of the Costume Designer's and the Alley Theatre's artistic goals.
- Complete assigned projects within Department resources and schedules.
- Assist the Cutter/Draper in costume fittings, specifically by preparing the fitting room with needed costume elements and supplies, writing notes for the Cutter/Draper, and sharing notes with appropriate Costume Shop staff.
- Assist the Cutter/Draper in the management of shop supplies, material goods, and notions needed for current and upcoming projects; inform the Assistant Costume Director of any materials or supplies that need to be purchased.
- In collaboration with the Cutter/Draper, manage the day-to-day maintenance and cleanliness of costume workspaces and equipment; communicate any maintenance needs to the Assistant Costume Director.
- Ensure that all patterns, fabrics, trims, and materials are properly stored at a project's completion.
- Act in concert with the theatre's safety and employee handbook policies.
- Additional duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS (SKILLS and KNOWLEDGE):
- Must have prior costume construction experience in a professional theatre setting.
- Prior experience working as a First Hand, preferred.
- Working knowledge of costume/fashion history.
- Experience with industrial and domestic sewing equipment.
- Proficiency in hand sewing techniques.
- Knowledge of costume construction techniques and materials.
- Reliable and consistent time management skills.
- Ability to problem-solve, remain flexible and/or adaptable.
- Ability to excel and remain detail-oriented in a work environment where multiple projects with specific deadlines overlap.
- Ability to maintain a positive attitude, discretion with information, and well-developed communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to take initiative for assigned projects.
- Ability to work with other staff members to achieve goals, prioritizing team-building and teamwork.
- Ability to work inclusively, and communicate about people, body types, hair types, skin tones, genders with neutral/positive language.
- Understanding of historical and institutional racism in the American theatre, or a commitment to learning, and to be a part of Alley Theatre's efforts to be an anti-racist organization.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Prolonged periods of standing at work table.
- Ability to climb stairs and step ladders.
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a sewing machine.
- Ability to move up to 25 lbs., either independently or with assistance.
- Ability to position oneself to accommodate costume fitting or dressing needs.
- This position involves frequent fabric handling, preparation and cutting which can be physically demanding on the hands and wrists.
- Typical hours are during the day, but the position requires flexibility to be available for weekend, holidays and evening work hours as needed.
BENEFITS & PERKS
- Medical, dental and vision insurance
- Paid vacation, floating holiday and sick time
- 401(k) with matching, FSA, HRA (Alley paid deductible)
- Free and discounted tickets to Alley Theatre performances
- Discounted Parking (bi-weekly $4 dollars).
- Discounted gym membership
- Employee wellness program & EAP
- Houston, TX is one of the most affordable cities in the nation with no state or city income tax
TO APPLY To apply for this position, please go to the following link on the Alley's website and apply. Alley Theatre is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at ...@alleytheatre.org. The Alley Theatre is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital or familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status or any other basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities, veterans, and others who demonstrate the ability to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Successful candidates will commit to an equitable and inclusive workplace, including but not limited to: racial equity, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, use of gender inclusive language, and cultural sensitivity. Read more at Alley Theatre Official Website - Equity Diversity Inclusion