This summer (June–August 2025), Bard SummerScape returns with a vibrant season of dance, theater, opera, music, and the beloved Spiegeltent. Presented by the Fisher Center at Bard, this celebrated multi-arts festival takes place in person on Bard’s idyllic 1,000-acre campus, featuring performances in the stunning Frank Gehry-designed performing arts center.
Stitchers are part of the Wardrobe team in the Production Department and support the execution of costuming elements and needs for the SummerScape opera. Stitchers sew and finish all assigned costumes. They report to the Wardrobe Supervisor and work closely with other production team members and costume designers.
We are accepting applications from entry-level candidates, including current and/or recently graduated students who possess sewing skills and are willing to receive training on specific tasks related to being a Stitcher.
This is a seasonal position from June 6 through June 28, non-exempt (overtime eligible), paid hourly at a rate range of $16-19/hr depending on experience. Hours will average 35–40 hours/week, with potential for overtime.
Local residence is required during the dates listed above; campus housing will be provided free of charge if needed, including a single bedroom and shared amenities based on availability. Employees will have access to three (3) meals per weekday and two (2) meals per weekend day on campus during the residency period.
RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Maintain a safe, healthy, and inclusive workplace at all times.
2. Assist in fitting, stitching, or other assigned costume duties.
3. Assist the Wardrobe Supervisor in the preparation and maintenance of all wardrobe facilities, including the chorus’ and principles’ dressing rooms.
4. Assist performers in the maintenance and use of their costumes and make repairs as needed.
5. Participate in pre-show and post-show checks and duties as assigned by the Wardrobe Supervisor.
6. With the assistance of the Wardrobe Supervisor, maintain up-to-date paperwork.
7. Assist the Wardrobe Supervisor on matters of specific rigging or actor comfort.
8. Perform other duties as assigned by the Wardrobe Supervisor.
9. Sew, either by machine or hand, the costumes assigned by your team leader.
10. Manage time efficiently on each sewing project.
11. Maintain personal work area, including sewing machinery as necessary to keep work moving effectively.
12. Communicate with other team members concerning problems and their possible solutions.
13. Perform other duties as assigned by your team leader or the Wardrobe Supervisor.
WORKING CONDITIONS
* Extended periods of standing and sitting.
* May handle dyes, natural and synthetic fibers, and materials including but not limited to feathers, furs, leather and more.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Demonstrated experience in machine and hand-sewing techniques.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
1. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
2. Ability to sit and stand for long periods.
3. Ability to move and lift objects up to 50 lbs.
4. Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays, as set by production schedule.
5. Successful candidates possess strong communication skills and keen attention to detail, are collaborative and self-motivated, and bring a positive, can-do attitude.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
1. Prior backstage costume-related experience.
For any access-related requests, questions, or issues with the application form, please contact fcjobs@bard.edu.
Bard College is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from those who contribute to our diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, mental or physical disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, familial status, veteran status, or genetic information. Bard is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for all individuals in employment practices, services, programs, and activities.
#J-18808-Ljbffr