Theatre Calgary is seeking an individual to fulfil the role of Head Dresser (Head of Wardrobe Running). The successful candidate will be responsible for providing supervision, co-ordination, and maintenance of a safe and welcoming environment for the onstage productions and backstage operations of Theatre Calgary, primarily working at the Max Bell Theatre.
The Head Dresser reports directly to the Production Manager and Technical Director. The successful candidate will have excellent technical and communication skills and will exhibit a keen interest and ability to work as a part of a dynamic team environment. The successful candidate shall be willing to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends according to the production schedule created by management.
Theatre Calgary operates as a certified Union House with IATSE Local 212. The successful candidate will be a member in good standing or be willing to join as a full member. Theatre Calgary is also a Category “A” venue with CAEA; is a signatory to the Canadian Theatre Agreement (CTA); and is a member of the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT).
We are the resident company in the Max Bell Theatre within the Werklund Centre complex, where we primarily present theatrical plays and musicals that are created and produced in-house. The seasons are typically structured with work spanning from August through June, including a summer maintenance & repair period. Theatre Calgary also occasionally produces works in other venues, and/or in collaboration with other theatres.
The Max Bell Theatre is a 55’ wide by 40’ deep proscenium stage fly house, with a capacity for an audience of up to 750 patrons. Theatre Calgary is proud to have made significant investments in cutting-edge theatrical equipment and technology, as well as deep investments in the working culture of our team – both of which allow us to create world-class productions right here in Calgary.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
– Supports the Production Department as a whole, particularly the Technical Director and Production Manager, in the efficient management and operation of the department.
– Upholds and ensures stage safety for all personnel.
– Enforces safety policies, advises management on changes, and documents incidents.
– Collaborates on costume designs with Wardrobe Department and works with other departments for planning and installation.
– Collaborates with other Resident Theatre Companies on the efficient use of shared spaces.
– Researches and suggests solutions with other departments and creatives.
– Coordinates with other departments to streamline production process.
– Plans and oversees safe and efficient installation, set-up, and strike of all costume components backstage and in dressing room areas, working with management.
– Manages the tracking and execution of all changes, including quick-changes, working with management.
– Creates and maintains show paperwork, ensuring timely and complete archiving of each production.
– Advises management on departmental needs and budget considerations.
– Ensures compliance with Theatre Calgary policies and the IATSE Collective Agreement, promoting a safe and inclusive work environment.
– Identifies and manages labour resources, adjusting schedules and budgets as needed.
– Responsible for monitoring and scheduling equipment maintenance and repairs.
– Maintains inventories and records of maintenance and repairs.
– Coordinates with management on venue requests, such as events, rentals, and tours.
– Manages the loaning or rental of equipment from the Wardrobe Running department.
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
– A collaborative, creative, and strategic thinking individual with experienced knowledge of theatre production and techniques.
– Self-directed, able to identify and undertake a task with limited direction or information.
– Robust experience with backstage environments and wardrobe operations, including maintenance and repairs, quick changes, and working with performers of varying experience levels.
– Strong communication, organizational and project management skills; ability to switch focus and juggle competing priorities and requests.
– Positive attitude and comfortable working in dynamic collaborative environments, with a demonstrated ability to function under stress.
– Working knowledge of functional techniques, including but not limited to machine sewing, hand sewing, industrial steam irons, sergers, and computer skills.
– Ability to safely lead and manage a crew of varying skillsets.
Preferred:
– Excel and other MS Office software proficiency
– First Aid Certification
WORKING CONDITIONS
Conditions may include working alone, lifting up to 50lbs, frequent use of stairs, and working in low-light and loud environments.
Occasional travel outside of the city may be required.
EMPLOYMENT TERMS
As per the collective agreement, this role is a Stage Department Head position, with a guaranteed minimum 39 weeks of employment at 40 hours per week. The current hourly wage is $35.50. Other terms and conditions are outlined within the 2022-2026 collective agreement between Theatre Calgary and IATSE Local 212.
This role will require weekend and evening work, and weeks in excess of 40 hours at various times throughout the season. Employees are strongly encouraged and supported in finding appropriate times to balance their hours. The Head Dresser is supported by an assistant Head Dresser and other crew members throughout the season, and the successful candidate will play a central role in refining the structure of the wardrobe running team.
ABOUT THEATRE CALGARY
Theatre Calgary’s vision is to stand amongst the best theatres globally as a leader in innovative, impactful and diverse programming. Our mission is to stimulate, provoke and delight through ambitious programming created to ignite local, national, and international engagement in a sustainable manner.
Theatre Calgary reflects the communities, the country, and the world we live in with ambitious programming, passionate community engagement and extraordinary productions. For more than 50 years, we have focused our energy on providing our community with the highest level of classic and contemporary plays, featuring the best artists from Calgary and across the country.
Theatre Calgary believes in a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. We are committed to reflecting the diversity of our community and we believe in equity and inclusion and strongly encourage submissions from all qualified individuals regardless of gender, age, race, sexual orientation, and physical ability.
In the spirit of reconciliation, Theatre Calgary acknowledges that we live, work, and create on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Districts 5 & 6), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta. They were the original occupants of this land and continue to be here to this day. Theatre Calgary is grateful to have the opportunity to present in this territory.
If you are excited to join our team and support our mission and values, we invite you to apply for this position with Theatre Calgary.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates are asked to send their cover letters and resumes, with “Head Dresser” in the subject line to: Emma Brager, Production Manager [email protected]
Suggested Start Date: Monday August 17th, 2026
A suitable start date will be discussed with the successful candidate, and flexibility to provide required notice and/or relocation will be accommodated.
Posting Closes: June 15th, 2026
