Nutcracker Costumer 2025 (CSSVII) na City of Davis, CA

The Davis Children's Nutcracker is a long running community tradition that provides a unique theater opportunity for approximately 250 children. Under the supervision of the Community Services Coordinator, the Costumer is responsible for the planning, organizing, purchasing, creation, and repairs of costumes for the Davis Children’s Nutcracker. During rehearsals and show times between late November to late December, the Costumer is responsible for costume fittings, alterations, preparing costumes (ironing, steaming), overseeing make up, and assisting with any costume needs during the show. After the final show, the Costumer will help to organize costumes for cleaning.

Past involvement as a participant, volunteer, or staff member in the Davis Children’s Nutcracker program is preferred, but not required for the position.
  
Hours:    Hours vary based upon the needs of the production, as well as costumer availability. Must be available to work Monday through Friday (M/W or T/TH or all days) between the hours of 3:30pm and 6:15pm from November 3 through December 5, 2025. Applicants need to be available between the hours of 12pm and 9pm during December 8 through December 14 for dress rehearsals, show performances and Load Out. Participation is mandatory November 3 – 7 for staff training.
 
Seasonal, temporary part-time, no benefits. Applicants are screened according to experience relevant to this position. Applications reviewed weekly; qualified candidates will be invited to individual or group interviews.

Responsibilities:

• Evaluate current costumes and costume needs to determine purchasing, creation and repair strategy
• Purchase costume pieces and/or materials as needed. Maintain budget, keep accurate and detailed financial records
• Design, create, alter and repair costumes using machine sewing, hand sewing and crafting techniques
• Run a costume fitting for groups of 10-20 children at a time
• Attend all rehearsals and show times, assisting with costumes and make-up, interacting with participants and volunteers throughout
• Be responsible for on-going costume organization
• Assist with collecting costume pieces at the end of the show for cleaning
• Collaborate creatively with director, producers and other staff
• Display positive and clear communication with parents, participants and staff; greet public and respond to questions regarding costuming and other needs
• Update and develop written costume records
• Be able to effectively handle both large and small groups of children and teenage volunteers
• Be a positive role model to elementary and middle school aged children as well as high school aged volunteers 
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and other City staff
• Report to daily and communicate effectively with program supervisors
• Assures that all equipment and facilities are safely and properly prepared and maintained
• Keeps work environments clean and organized

Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Intermediate-advanced machine and hand sewing skills. (Pattern-making skills are a plus, but not required.)
• Displays strong leadership and customer service skills.
• Experience working with children and teens ages 6-17 highly desirable
• Past participant or past volunteer in the Davis Children's Nutcracker program preferred, or willing to learn about the production
• Ability to demonstrate energy, enthusiasm, and creativity in the job position
• Ability to motivate and lead other program staff, volunteers, and youth participants
• Having knowledge of recreation activities, child development, behavior management practices and community resources is desirable
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and communication with other program staff and community members