Free! Shakespeare in the Park Wardrobe Supervisor

Reports to:     Production Manager

Dates:             July 6th, 2026 through September 6th, 2026

 

About the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (CSC) is a resident ensemble theatre company bringing Shakespeare and the Classics to life for all. Operating out of The Otto M. Budig Theater, CSC hosts a year-round theatrical season in addition to special events, educational programming, and community engagement activities. In its theatrical portfolio, CSC executes up to ten mainstage productions and six touring productions annually. Beyond its theatrical portfolio, CSC collaborates with many local community and arts organizations.

 

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and access (DEIA) are priorities of the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. CSC strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, sex, religion, creed, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or any other legally protected classification. All team members are expected to advance CSC’s DEIA commitments.

 

Position Overview

The Free! Shakespeare in the Park Wardrobe Supervisor is responsible for the costume and wig maintenance, preshow, and postshow needs for the production. They work closely with the Stage Manager to run all shows. The backstage running track may include prop hand-off or scenic transitions. The Wardrobe Supervisor works intimately with the acting ensemble; as such, they should be able to handle issues with discretion, prioritize privacy, and value creating a comfortable work environment.

 

The schedule for this position varies due to show scheduling. The specific work schedule is driven by the performance and technical rehearsal schedule. Extended hours and modified work weeks may be necessary due to technical rehearsal schedules and specific production needs.

 

Responsibilities

Wardrobe

• Running wardrobe backstage for the summer tour production of Much Ado About Nothing.
• Maintaining and cleaning costumes during all production runs.
• Doing all show laundry and redistributing clean clothes after each performance.
• Spraying and deodorizing all non-washable clothes after each performance.
• Steaming and pressing garments as needed.
• Repairing garments as needed and informing the shop manager of any serious damages or repairs.
• Minor wig repair and maintenance during the production run.
• Participate in backstage preparation for each show.
• Maintain cleanliness of backstage spaces quick change booths, and any storage shelves, racks, or tables.
• Assist with prop handoffs, scenic transitions, and cueing actors as needed.
• Participate in wardrobe strike.

Competencies & Qualifications

The items listed below are guidelines to skills and ambitions that a successful candidate should have. Successful candidates will identify as possessing the majority of these skills or being actively interested and committed to developing these skills. Candidates who have yet to cultivate some of these attributes but feel passionate about growing them may still find success in this role.

Cultural

• Passionate about cultivating a work environment and work product that supports CSC’s DEIA initiatives.
• Drive to create excellent theatre that has a significant impact in the community and beyond.
• Ability to remain tactful in stressful situations.
• Desire to lead a team, develop professional skills, and foster professional development.

Technical

• Previous experience in technical theatre with a focus in wardrobe. Experience in other areas such as costume construction, alterations, make-up execution, styling and maintaining wigs, or management a plus.
• Strong knowledge base of wardrobe maintenance and laundry.
• Excellent communication skills, particularly with actors and colleagues.
• Comfortable problem solving and making decisions with limited supervision.
• Able to keep calm under pressure and remain tactful in stressful situations.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Able to read and create detailed paperwork.
• A sense of humor.
• Leads with kindness.

Compensation & Benefits

This is a seasonal position compensated at a rate of $500-550 per week. All compensation is received through direct deposit on a biweekly basis.

Equal Opportunity Employer

CSC is committed to providing equal opportunity for outstanding humans. CSC actively seeks nominations of applications from qualified individuals, from the broadest possible community, and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who enhance the diversity of its work force. CSC strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, sex, religion, creed, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or any other legally protected classification.

To Apply

To apply for this position, candidates should email a resume and cover letter to Production Manager, Rob Stimmel at rob.stimmel@cincyshakes.com. Submissions will be accepted until May 1st.