Job Openings at Shakespeare & Company

Summer Season 2020 Technical Jobs

Our summer season features eight shows on four different stages on our 30-acre campus. Shop spaces include natural light in second floor, air-conditioned Costume Shop, a 110’ x 60’ Scene Shop with a 20’ x 40’ Paint deck, and separate Props Shop. We also have separate Sound and Lighting facilities as well as 3,500 sq. ft. of costume stock and 12,000+ sq. ft. of props and scenic storage.

Technical Director

Shakespeare and Company, located in Western Massachusetts, is looking for a Technical Directors to join our scene shop staff. 

The Technical Director would take lead on and work closely with the ATD in the creation of working drawings from designer draftings. He or she would collaborate with the ATD and PM to determine materials and methods that should be used to build the scenic design. He or she would then lead in creating shop drawings and then ensure its proper construction and installation. The person in this position will find their time split between determining the build and supplies, drafting, attending production meetings, and solving problems in the field. The TD may lead the build of extremely complex projects. This position may also be responsible for digitizing scenic drawings from our designers if necessary. This person may also be required to take the lead in any complex rigging and be present at load ins and strikes in the theater according to the production schedule.

Preferred applicants will have a strong background in technical direction with experience in wood construction, welding, and rigging. A level of proficiency in Vectorworks or AutoCad is needed. An applicant with experience in welding aluminum and with Vectorworks is strongly desired. Completion or near completion of a degree in Technical Theater is preferred. Candidates should be able to lift 70 pounds, be comfortable working at heights, and have a valid driver's license.

Contract runs from mid-April through mid-September. Shorter or different availabilities will be considered. Housing for non-local applicants is available. There is a possible extension to work on our Fall Education program that ends just prior to Thanksgiving.

Shakespeare + Company is an E.O.E. and this is a salaried position with overtime. Send cover letter with dates of availability, resume, and 3 references with e-mail contact to: Kevin Harvell, Production Manager at  jobsearch@shakespeare.org. More information on the season and company can be found at Shakespeare.org.

Scenic Charge

The Scenic Charge would take lead on and work closely with the TD, ATDs, Designers and a scenic artist in the finishing of scenic elements, primarily through paint, to achieve the designer’s artistic vision. The Scenic Charge is tasked with determining the proper techniques and materials in which to complete the look of the set. The person in this position will find their time split between leading the scenic artist, liaising with directing and design teams, and determining materials and techniques that will be needed. The Scenic Charge may take on the task of creating small murals or paintings. Must be willing to work some nights or early mornings.

Preferred applicants will have a strong background in scenic painting technique, leadership skills, Photoshop, and in time management; especially estimation. There is a large emphasis placed on the knowledge of surface treatments including, texturing, ageing, foam carving and distressing. Prior experience as a scenic charge is required. Candidates should be able to lift 50 pounds, and be comfortable working at heights, and have a valid driver's license.

The contract runs approximately from mid-May through mid-September. It is important to note that shorter availabilities will be considered. Housing for non local applicants is available.

Shakespeare + Company is an E.O.E. and this is a salaried position with overtime. Send cover letter with dates of availability, resume, and 3 references with e-mail contact to: Kevin Harvell, Production Manager at jobsearch@shakespeare.org. More information on the season and company can be found at Shakespeare.org.

Costume Shop

Seasonal Costume Shop personnel sought for an Equity L.O.A. 7 show season at Shakespeare & Company. Season runs from mid-May through mid-September. Most contracts are for shorter duration.

Late season and early start contracts may include theater-in-education support. Housing available for most applicants, local transportation negotiable, though preferred candidates will have own transportation. Experience in fast paced Summer Theater helpful. E.O.E. Send cover letter, resume, 3 references with e-mail contact, and your dates of availability to: jobsearch@shakespeare.org

First Hands: Applicants should have a strong background and preferably several years of experience in costume construction and cutting, with some experience with draping. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to all tasks related to being a first hand for construction & alteration of costumes for productions as assigned, working directly with drapers, designers, and stitchers to lead the execution and completion of all aspects of costume designs in a timely manner. Preferred candidates will also have good organization and leadership skills and a sense of humor. Participation in fittings, consultations, and shop work as needed. Other duties as assigned.

Stitchers: Applicants should have strong stitching skills, familiarity with all types of basic sewing machines and construction techniques. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to all tasks related to being a stitcher for construction and alteration of costumes for productions as assigned, working with Drapers, First Hands and shop staff as assigned to ensure execution of all aspects of costume designs. Participation in other shop duties as assigned. Preferred candidates will have good organization skills and a sense of humor and are good team players.

Wardrobe Staff: Applicants will be responsible for preparation of costumes for each performance, assisting actors into and out of costumes, presetting backstage changes, performing quick changes, resetting costumes at end of show, daily maintenance and cleaning of costumes and occasionally, wigs, for assigned productions from technical rehearsals through closing. Some shop hours may be required as well, other duties as assigned. Previous experience, good people skills, good sewing skills, and some understanding of garment construction preferred. Dates are June 24 – Sept 6, 2020. Costume & Wardrobe Department

Interns: please refer to Intern Program Page.