First Hand

First Hand

Barrington Stage Company, an award-winning professional theatre company located in the heart of the Berkshires, is seeking a First Hand to join our team in Pittsfield, MA. This position assists in the construction and maintenance of costumes for productions on our Boyd-Quinson Stage and St Germain Stage. This position requires a skilled artisan with a working knowledge of pattern drafting, hand and machine sewing techniques, the willingness to work as part of a team, and the ability to follow through on individual projects.

Barrington Stage has a three-fold mission: to produce top-notch, compelling work; to develop new plays and musicals; and to engage our community with vibrant, inclusive educational outreach programs. BSC is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age. We strongly encourage candidates of color, and/or from diverse backgrounds/underrepresented groups to apply.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in the construction of costumes for all of BSC’s 2025 season’s productions and events, under the guidance of the Costume Shop Supervisor and Cutter/Draper


• Assist Cutter/Draper in the creation of patterns as assigned


• Cut fabric based on patterns supplied


• Make patterns for facings and linings based on original patterns supplied as assigned


• Grade patterns to other sizes as needed


• Attend fittings to assist and take notes for Cutter/Drapers


• Prepare alterations from fittings for Stitchers


• Supervise Stitchers


• Effectively manage time to ensure all sewing projects are completed on schedule and to the highest quality


• Use and maintain costume shop tools and equipment appropriately


• Keep work station clean and assist in keeping the costume shop and storage areas clean 


• Assist in maintaining and updating costume stock and inventory throughout the season

Skills:

• Basic pattern drafting skills


• Working knowledge of costume construction techniques and materials


• Basic knowledge of fabric types and their uses for the stage


• Basic knowledge of costume and fashion history


• Ability to manage time effectively


• Good interpersonal and communication skills


• Good organizational skills

This position reports to the Costumes Shop Manager. It is a full-time, seasonal position.

Contract: 5/5/2025 through 6/29/2025

Pay is $769.90 per week, non-exempt, with overtime starting at 45 hours and housing available.