Overview

Description: The heart of Boston Ballet is the human experience. Through our living and breathing art, we forge human connections-between artist and attendee, teacher and trainee, friend and newcomer, one's outer and inner self. We believe that the community of employees that makes dance possible is better together when talented individuals with varied life experiences, identities, races, cultures and ideas are welcomed, encouraged, and heard.Boston Ballet seeks a full-time Draper to start work in mid-September to lead a team of three in constructing, fitting, and refurbishing costumes for professional ballet productions.This is an advanced level, hands-on production role requiring demonstrated professional experience in a theatrical costume shop environment. Candidates must be able to work independently, manage complex builds and fittings, and contribute immediately within a fast-paced production schedule. This is not an entry-level or apprentice position.The ideal candidate has a minimum of 4-6 years of professional draping experience in professional dance, theater, opera, or a comparable professional performance environment. Experience must extend beyond academic or student productions. In consultation with the Director of Costumes, the Draper will lead a team on projects in collaboration with other costume shop teams and production staff.Work includes new builds as well as remounts and refurbishments of existing and rented productions. The Costume Shop is a fast-paced, multi-program environment requiring strong technical skills, efficiency, collaboration, and professional-level costume production experience. Along with technical skills, the Draper must be an excellent team leader and be able to guide, delegate, and manage the workflow of their team, which includes one First Hand and one Stitcher, plus occasional Over Hire staff.Interested candidates must include links to view examples of previous draping work to be considered. ResponsibilitiesInterpreting design sketches and creating a plan to execute the construction of the designsDraping, pattern making, and sewing for assigned designsPerforming fittings of new and existing costumes on dancers of all gendersSupervising alterations and assigned costumesSupervising team's work, monitoring safety and quality of workCalculating yardage and supplies needed for assigned projectsTraining personnel as necessaryAttending dress rehearsals, taking notes, and trouble-shooting backstageOther duties as assigned Requirements: Minimum MFA in costume technology or comparable professional experienceMinimum 4-6 years draping in a costume shop at a professional levelHigh skill level in working with a variety of fabrics, particularly stretch fabricsIn depth knowledge of ballet costumes, costume history, construction, and historic patternsThe willingness and desire to learn and teach new methodsKnowledge of machinery used in costume constructionDemonstrated supervisory experience and leadership in a professional theater setting.Ability to work effectively under pressure.Strong problem solving, organizational, and interpersonal skillsWork Conditions and Physical RequirementsAbility to stand for extended periods and move between sewing, cutting, and fitting areasFrequent bending, stooping, and reaching while working with garments and materialsAbility to lift and transport materials up to 40 lbs.Close visual acuity to assess fit, construct patterns, and inspect detailed workAbility to operate sewing machines, cutting tools, and other costume shop equipmentAbility to work in a workroom environment with fabrics, machinery, and occasional exposure to shop materials (i.e. dyes, adhesives)Physical stamina to sustain repetitive tasks and meet production deadlinesBenefitsBCBS HMO health insurance plan with zero deductibleBCBS dental insurance with employer providing 100% annual premium for individual coverageFlexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) - health and dependent careEmployer-paid life and disability