WARDROBE CREW HEAD

Preparing for the show

1. Obtain a copy of the script read it . Share the script with the crew.

2. Meet with the Costume Designer as soon as possible after being assigned to this position. This meeting will provide an overview of the general duties and special requirements of the production. Set up future meetings with Costume Designer .

2. Attend the first call rehearsal as a member of the Production Staff. Obtain a copy of the rehearsal schedule. Discuss with the Director how many and which rehearsals should be attended in order to become familiar with the production, the blocking, quick changes and other costume related issues. Attend all Production Staff meetings.

3. Meet with the Wardrobe Crew as soon as they have been assigned to the crew.

• contact the students in timely manner;
• be prepared to answer questions about the schedule of rehearsals and performances as well as likely call times;
• give a general introduction and description of the duties to the crew members;
• set future meetings
• answer any other questions crew members might have.

4. Conduct an orientation meeting with the crew in the week prior to Dress Rehearsals.

• conduct a tour of all backstage spaces, the dressing rooms and the costume shop.
• cover information on sign-in and basic backstage etiquette and proper dress
• demonstrate the most basic hand sewing stitch, handling the industrial iron and steamer, and basic repairs .
• review crew duties, the inventory process, specific crew assignments and an initial preview of the costumes.
• cover how to actively look at actors,
• cover how to assist them without distracting them.
• cover how to correctly hang up a costume.

5. Determine which final run-through rehearsals the crew will attend to gain familiarity with the show. Introductions to the cast and other crew members will also be made at this time.

6. Prior to Dress Rehearsals, compile the complete costume inventory for each actor. This will consist of a detailed description for each item per actor per costume. The inventory will be checked by and corrected by the designer. A final copy must be ready by first dress.

 

Production Duties

1. The call for the crew is 15 minutes prior to the first actor call.

2. In the 15 minutes before actor call conduct and complete the pre-show inventory. Find any missing item immediately.

3. If laundry has been done, return all clean items to the appropriate actor.

4. Check the pre-show steaming and ironing list. The Costume Designer will determine ALL steaming and ironing .

5. Once the show is fully ready, pre-set all necessary items for quick and fast changes in their pre-arranged positions backstage. Notify each actor involved in these changes that the items are in place. This must all happen before the House is open.

6. As actors finish their hair and make up preparation, the assist them in dressing. Check each actor to be sure the costume is worn correctly and that all pieces of the costume are present.

7. During the performance, the Crew Head is responsible for each and every actor and all the costumes. The actors must be checked before every entrance, when possible, and quietly assisted to maintain the look established by the designer.

 

After Each Performance

1. At the end of the performance, complete the post-show inventory by each actor and crew member.

2. Assure that all costumes are hung or stored correctly.

3. Monitor need for costume repairs and schedule simple repairs.

4. Inform the designer of any special issues or needs regarding the costumes and the actors.

5. Make laundry announcements and collect the appropriate items according to the predetermined schedule set by the Designer.

 

Post-Production Duties

1. Prior to the final performance, meet with the designer and determine;

• the list of things needing to be done during Strike,
• the items to be put away immediately and
• where to store those costumes needing to be cleaned.

2. During Strike in conjunction with the Designer, direct the crew in moving all items out of the dressing rooms to the appropriate location(s).

3. Complete evaluation of THA11 students (see appendix II) and turn in to Dr. Cummins on or before Monday after strike.