The American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) at Harvard University is a leading force in American theater, producing groundbreaking work in Cambridge and beyond. A.R.T. produces a mainstage subscription season, as well as additional artistic projects, which expand the boundaries of theater by transforming the ways in which work is developed, programmed, produced, and contextualized, always including the audience as a partner. A.R.T. produces a broad range of theatrical entertainment including new works, pre-Broadway premieres, co-productions and transfers, and international tours.
Through groundbreaking and transformational theatrical experiences, A.R.T. believes that theater has the power to heal and imagine collective pathways forward. A.R.T. affirms and celebrates a multitude of perspectives and experiences that reflect the diversity of our country and world and is dedicated to making a welcoming and accessible space for people of any identity, background, or ability.
As the professional theater on the campus of Harvard University, A.R.T. is committed to collaborative and creative exchange among a wide range of academic departments, institutions, students, and faculty members. A.R.T. plays a central role in Harvard's undergraduate Theater, Dance & Media concentration and also mentors students in the Harvard Radcliffe Dramatic Club at the Loeb Drama Center.
Under the guidance of the Costume Manager and in collaboration with the Assistant Costume Manager, the Term Stitcher supports costume builds, alterations, hand-offs, and storage for A.R.T. productions. Primary duties include in-house costume construction and project finishing as directed by the Costume management team. Additional responsibilities involve sewing machine maintenance and inventory management post-opening. Other related tasks may be assigned by the Costume Manager.
Position Description
Garment Construction of Costumes:
Research machine and hand sewing techniques for assigned build projects. Confer with Draper and Firsthand regarding the garment construction process.
Historical costume reference and analyze the relevance of assigned costume project build to theatrical costuming. Use products that are vital for assigned costume projects, taking into consideration safety, wearability, longevity, and supply availability.
Accurately and efficiently sew a wide range of elaborate and unique costumes and craft pieces that can range from historical, contemporary, fantasy, and dance.
The ability to receive instructions from Draper and/or Firsthand and work independently. Works on multiple costume projects during the production build period of the assigned show.
Clean and restock garments and accessories as designated and use bacterial sprays on footwear.
Assist with show packing and paperwork for current show runs and future engagements.
Expectations in Workroom:
Participate in fabric and trim preparation such as pressing, rolling, and inventory.
Participates in department maintenance, organization, and sanitization of Costume Department space. This includes equipment by cleaning shared spaces and supply bins/shelves after each use.
Maintain quality control of garments during the show build process, considering time, staff resources and industry standards.
Uphold physical safety compliances set through precedence, policy, and procedure per A.R.T.
Participation in the technical rehearsal process:
Complete notes and pertinent information to achieve clear and efficient quick changes, under or over-dressing, pre-setting props in costumes and tracking show updates from the Costume Designer and Costume Management team.
Work overtime the week before tech up to the opening of the show.
Participation in training, maintenance, and planning:
Participate in Costume departmental training, workshops, and meetings.
Provide feedback and support developing new, or existing office systems and organization.
Basic Qualifications
Candidates MUST meet the following basic qualifications to be considered for this role:
1+ years of experience working in live entertainment, events, or an equivalent combination of relevant work experience and education beyond high school. Broad working knowledge of costume construction
Experience working in a costume shop, fashion, garment manufacturing, or similar environment.
Experience with hand sewing and alterations.
Additional Qualifications and Skills
If you believe this is a role is one that you will be excited to work in, even if you do not have the following, we encourage you to apply.
Intermediate knowledge of Costume history, Theatre, Opera, Ballet and/or fashion construction skills as demonstrated through professional or academic experience.
Expertise in several of the following machines: domestic and industrial sewing machines, sergers, cover stitch, buttonholes machines, irons, and steamers.
Familiarity with and knowledge of different types of fabrics, sewing notions, tools, and a variety of craft and building supplies.
Well-organized and exceptional attention to detail.
Proficient in using computers and knowledge of basic computer programs (email, word processing, etc. Microsoft Office environment a plus.).
Ability to multi-task and work effectively while managing multiple deadlines and priorities.
Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism in practice.
Support education and job development training. This can include, but is not limited to teaching workshops, leading tours, discussing behind the scenes activities, or taking on interns or apprentices.
Maintain and promote a safe work environment by following and enforcing all safety regulations, providing safety equipment, training employees on safe practices, reporting incidents, managing record keeping, staying up to date on safety issues and advising on safety related practices.
With advanced notice, must be willing and able to work flexible hours/days, including evenings and weekends, reflecting the dynamic schedule of the theater.
Flexibility, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. Inclusive communication and behavior particularly with different communication styles. Strong leadership qualities with managing time and organizational responsibility. Successful under time and space limitations, while maintaining a safe and respectful environment.
Ability to lead by example and carry forward the values of the production department.
Willingness and ability to work 40 hours per week. Flexibility to work overtime as needed.
Working Conditions
Current Driver's License or ability to obtain license upon employment
Working Conditions
This position requires frequent evening and weekend hours and the ability to work overtime as needed.
The A.R.T. is located in a multistory building without an elevator, with work taking place on all levels
Costume storage is located offsite, and housed in the A.R.T. production shop building, approximately two miles from the theater. The storage area is on a second-level loft, accessed via a staircase.
Additional Information
This is a one-year term appointment
This position is deemed critical during the production and technical rehearsal period.
This position is subject to periodic unpaid leaves of absence based upon the Production calendar.
This position requires occasional overtime and the ability to work some nights and weekends.
This position has a 3-month orientation and review period.
Harvard University does not provide visa sponsorship.
The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines.
Benefits
We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
LinkedIn Recruiter Tag (for internal use only)
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Department Office Location: USA - MA - Cambridge
Job Code: 402006 A.R.T. Technician
Job Function: Arts
Work Format: On-Site
Sub Unit: ------------
Salary Grade: 052
Department: ART
Union: 55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers
Time Status: Full-time
Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
Schedule: Full time. Monday through Friday. 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. *Additional hours during show production
Commitment to Equity Diversity Inclusion and Belonging: Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.
EOE Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.
