DRAPER

DEPARTMENT: Production
 

POSITION: Draper


REPORTS TO: Costume Shop Manager


JOB TYPE: Full Time, Seasonal (July – March, 33 Weeks), Exempt


START DATE: July 21st, 2025


SALARY: $900 Weekly 

 

ABOUT:
 

The Rep is the St. Louis region’s most honored live professional theatre company. Founded in 1966, The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis is a fully professional theatrical operation belonging to the League of Resident Theatres, The League of St. Louis Theatres, and is a constituent member of Theatre Communications Group, Inc., the national service organization for the not-for-profit professional theatre.

 

MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES
 

Mission: The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis creates bridges between people in the St Louis region and beyond through expertly crafted theatrical experiences that are joyful, unique, inspiring, and thought-provoking.

 

Vision: The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis will be a welcoming home where a full spectrum of artists and audiences courageously engage with one another and expand their appreciation and understanding of the world.

 

Values: Collective Excellence, Equity and Anti-Racism, Resource Stewardship for Sustainability and Growth, Life-Long Learning

 

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis is seeking a talented and dedicated Draper with tailor and menswear expertise to join our dynamic costume shop team. The Draper will be responsible for creating, fitting, and altering costumes for productions, working closely with the Costume Designer & Shop Manager to ensure each design is brought to life with precision and artistry. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on a wide range of theatrical productions and contribute to the artistic vision of the theatre.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Construct, Alter, and Tailor Costumes: Draft patterns, cut fabric, and sew costumes based on designer sketches and instructions
  • Fittings: Collaborate with the Costume Designer and Costume Shop Manager to conduct fittings with actors, making adjustments and alterations as needed to achieve the desired look and fit.
  • Pattern Drafting and Modification: Create patterns for custom garments and modify existing patterns to fit individual performers and production needs.
  • Fabric Selection and Handling: Advise on fabric choices, ensuring the proper materials are selected for each design, and manage the care and storage of fabrics and finished costumes.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with the Costume Designer, Director, and other members of the production team to ensure that costumes align with the overall aesthetic and functional requirements of the production.
  • Maintain Work Area: Ensure that the costume shop is organized and that tools, materials, and costumes are maintained in good condition.
  • Meet Production Deadlines: Manage time effectively to ensure all costume pieces are completed on schedule, and collaborate with other departments to meet show deadlines.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience as a Draper or in a similar costume construction role within a theatre environment.
  • Skills: Advanced skills in pattern drafting, garment construction, sewing (hand and machine), fitting techniques, and alterations.
  • Knowledge: Strong understanding of historical and contemporary costume styles, textiles, and garment construction techniques.
  • Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail, quality, and precision, especially in the finishing touches of each costume piece.
  • Collaboration: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with a team.
  • Time Management: Ability to manage multiple projects at once and meet strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Degree or formal training in Costume Design, Fashion Design, or a related field.
  • Experience working in a regional theatre or large-scale production environment.
  • Proficiency with specialized sewing machines, industrial equipment, and pattern software.

TO APPLY:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to productionjobs@repstl.org. Please include where you saw the job posting.
Subject Line: Last Name, First Name – Draper