Totem Pole Playhouse
Fayetteville, PA
US

CONTACT NAME

Kia Armstrong

DESCRIPTION

Totem Pole Playhouse – 2026 Wardrobe Positions

General Information

Totem Pole Playhouse, Pennsylvania’s premier professional summer theatre, is located within the breathtaking 1,200-acre Caledonia State Park between Gettysburg and Chambersburg, PA. We are currently seeking seasonal Costume shop and Wardrobe Staff to join us for our 76th Season where we offer both Equity productions and guest presentations, including “Tucked Away Treasures”, as part of our summer series. The award-winning Playhouse has a stellar industry reputation, with the New York Times describing Totem Pole Playhouse as, “the Cadillac of summer theaters.”

The 2026 season schedule runs from May 29th through August 30th. While there may be some flexibility with start and end dates, applicants are encouraged to be available for the entire season.

2026 Summer Series Shows:
A Night with Janis Joplin
Come From Away
Oscar & Felix: A New Look at the Odd Couple
South Pacific
Karen Hester as “Dolly”
Tucked Away Treasure series & Summer Camp Performances

Most shows include a 2.5-day strike/load-in and three days of technical rehearsals, creating the unique—and occasionally hectic—pace of traditional summer stock theatre. When operational, Totem Pole Playhouse maintains fully staffed private scenic and costume shops. For certain staff positions, complimentary housing is available in shared staff accommodations, each offering a private bedroom. Housing locations are conveniently situated as close as 2 miles and no further than 20 miles from the work site. Limited access to company vehicles is also provided, as needed. All positions include weekly salaries. Depending on the role and responsibilities, some positions meet the threshold for overtime-exempt status, while others are eligible for overtime compensation in compliance with applicable PA labor laws.

As part of our ongoing growth, Totem Pole Playhouse is implementing several new operational approaches this season. While these adjustments are being made thoughtfully and with intention, some processes may evolve as the season progresses. We are seeking team members who are adaptable, solution-oriented, and excited to collaborate in an environment that values flexibility, communication, and creative problem-solving in the face of occasional unknowns.

Seasonal Agreement Dates:
On or around May 11th, 2025 – On or around Aug 30th 2026 (Start & End dates vary by department. Arrival waves between May 11th - 26th, Departure waves between August 2nd - 30th, 2025)

*Totem Pole Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Positions available:

Costume Shop Manager:
The Costume Shop Manager oversees the construction, organization, and management of costumes for Totem Pole Playhouse’s fast-paced 5-show summer season. This position requires a highly skilled stitcher and an experienced manager who can upkeep the costume shop and lead the costume department with initiative, problem-solving ability, and clear communication. The Costume Shop Manager works closely with designers, stage management, and production staff to ensure timely delivery, professional presentation, and seamless backstage operations. This position reports to the Producer and supervises all wardrobe staff, including the Wardrobe Supervisor and Hair & Wardrobe Assistant.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Management:
  • Lead the costume department, supervising the Wardrobe Supervisor and Hair & Wardrobe Assistant to ensure all productions run smoothly.
  • Provide clear direction, training, and support to the wardrobe crew, fostering a professional and collaborative team environment.
  • Identify potential challenges or bottlenecks in costume production and proactively implement solutions.
  • Maintain strong working relationships with designers, stage management, vendors, and local over-hire resources.
  • Oversee all daily wardrobe operations during rehearsals, tech, and performances, ensuring accuracy and consistency.

• Costume Construction & Maintenance:
  • Organize build, fitting, and alteration schedules to ensure all costumes and wardrobe assets are completed and delivered on time.
  • Work hands-on in the shop with stitching, pulling, and constructing costumes, including specialty garments.
  • Maintain high standards for costume quality, care, and backstage presentation.
  • Ensure compliance with all costume-related aspects of the CBA with AEA during fittings and performances.

• Budget & Resource Management:
  • Maintain and manage materials and budgets for all costume-related expenses, including the ordering shop and wardrobe supplies.

• • Monitor shop capacity and communicate potential production limitations to the Producer.
  • Maintain accurate inventory and shop organization, including tools, fabrics, and wardrobe assets.

• Special Projects & Programming:
  • Assist with wardrobe needs for Totem Pole Playhouse’s “Tucked Away Treasures” Series and Camp Performances as assigned.
  • Participate in or oversee special projects as needed, including show prep, maintenance, rental returns, and costume clean-up after openings, including our final show of the season.
  • Perform other duties traditionally associated with this job title in live theatrical production.

Requirements:
• Proven expertise in costume construction and administration; strong stitching skills required.
• Experience managing staff and supervising a team in a technical or production environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills, initiative, and the ability to make independent decisions.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, capable of working with a variety of personalities. Willingness to seek advice and ask questions.
• Physical capability to work on tall ladders, lift at least 30 lbs., and manage long, physically demanding hours.
• Comfort working with vintage & delicate fabrics.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to operate a vehicle for production-related needs.

Weekly Salary Range $500-650 DEO

To Apply: Please send resume and cover letter to [email protected]

Stitcher:
The Stitcher supports the Costume Shop Manager in the daily activities of the costume shop and assists with the fabrication, modification, and acquisition of costumes for Totem Pole Playhouse’s fast-paced 5-show season. This position requires a skilled, self-directed stitcher who can work independently, manage assigned projects from start to finish, and contribute to an efficient costume shop environment. The Stitcher reports to the Costume Shop Manager and works closely with the costume shop team to support the successful execution of all productions.

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Contribute to the completion of costume packages for all productions, including construction, alterations, and repairs.
  • Work independently on assigned stitching projects, managing time and tasks to meet production deadlines.
  • Assist with the load-in and load-out of costume assets to and from dressing rooms as needed.
  • Pull costumes from stock and help maintain accurate costume inventory.
  • Support the Costume Shop Manager with special projects and seasonal workload demands as needed.
  • Help monitor costume shop supplies and communicate material needs.
  • Assist with Totem Pole Playhouse’s “Tucked Away Treasures” Series and Camp Performances as needed.
  • Perform other duties traditionally associated with this job title in live theatrical production.

• Requirements:
  • Demonstrated proficiency in stitching and costume construction techniques.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and take ownership of assigned projects.
  • Strong time-management and problem-solving skills.
  • Physical capability to work on tall ladders, lift at least 30 lbs., and manage long, physically demanding hours.
  • Comfort working with vintage and delicate fabrics.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with the costume shop team and follow direction from the Costume Shop Manager.

Weekly Salary Range $400-500 DEO

To Apply: Please send resume and cover letter to [email protected]

Hair & Wardrobe Assistant:

The Hair & Wardrobe Assistant supports the Wardrobe Supervisor in maintaining costumes and wigs throughout Totem Pole Playhouse’s 5-show season. This position plays a hands-on role in the daily care, application, and maintenance of wigs and costumes and requires attendance at all performances as part of the run crew. The Hair & Wardrobe Assistant must be confident working independently while also collaborating closely with the wardrobe, hair, and stage management teams to ensure smooth backstage operations. This position reports to the Wardrobe Supervisor and works closely with the costume and hair teams to support performers’ comfort, consistency, and confidence throughout the run of each production.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform daily wig and hair maintenance, including cleaning, styling, resetting, and minor repairs.

• Confidently apply wigs and hairpieces for performances, ensuring secure and consistent placement.

• Identify potential wig or hair issues and make minor adjustments or repairs as needed.

• Assist with wig fittings, labeling, and organization of hairpieces.

• Prepare wigs and hairpieces for each performance, including pre-setting and maintaining styling continuity.

• Ensure proper storage, cleanliness, and organization of wigs, hair accessories, and styling tools.

• Assist with costume changes backstage during technical rehearsals and performances.

• Perform daily show laundry and ensure costumes are clean, repaired, and performance-ready.

• Informing Wardrobe Supervisor/Costume Manager of maintenance supplies in need of restocking.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of dressing rooms, wardrobe areas, and costume storage.

• Assist in the costume shop with basic stitching, alterations, repairs, and maintaining costume stock as needed.

• Work independently to complete assigned tasks while remaining responsive to direction and feedback.

• Communicate clearly with the Wardrobe Supervisor and Stage Management regarding costume and wig needs or concerns.

• Assist with Totem Pole Playhouse’s “Tucked Away Treasures” Series and Camp Performances as needed.

• Perform other duties traditionally associated with this job title in live theatrical production.

Requirements:

• Demonstrated comfort and proficiency with wig maintenance and application.

• Ability to identify wig and hair issues and execute minor repairs or adjustments.

• Basic sewing skills, including hand stitching and familiarity with sewing machines.

• Ability to work independently with a proactive, can-do attitude.

• Strong ability to listen, take instruction, and collaborate as part of a team.

• Physical capability to navigate stairs, work on tall ladders, lift at least 30 lbs., and endure long, physically demanding hours.

• Comfort working with vintage and delicate fabrics.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Weekly Salary Range: $450–525 DOE

To Apply: Please send resume and cover letter to [email protected]

DURATION

Jan 11, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026

SALARY

$400.00 – $650.00 per week

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