Des Moines Metro Opera is a major summer opera festival located in Indianola, IA. The company produces 3-4 new productions each season in a summer repertory schedule, presented within the intimate 467-seat theatre at the Blank Performing Arts Center. Our 53rd season includes Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman, Janáček’s The Cunning Little Vixen, and Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress.
Principle Duties and Responsibilities:
• Interpret costume designs to create costume pieces, including but not limited to: full build items, foundational garments and alterations.
• Assist in the preparation and running of all productions. This includes the building, altering, fitting, repair, washing and general upkeep of costumes used by DMMO.
• Work under the Costume Shop Manager to supervise and maintain work flow within the costume shop.
o This includes daily check-in with Costume Shop Manager and Costume Director and collaboration on the daily, weekly and season-long work calendars.
• Provide instruction to the stitchers and interns regarding costume construction, alteration and repair.
• Answer questions and consult Shop Manager, Asst. Designer, Costume Director, Costume Designer(s) as needed.
• Work under the Wardrobe Supervisor during the run of shows, prepping costumes and assisting in quick changes if needed.
• Attend fittings and assist as needed. Work with wardrobe supervisor to ensure fitting spaces are clean, organized and prepared for fittings before and between all fittings.
• Communicate issues with costume pieces, builds and shop flow as they arise with the Shop Manager and Costume Director.
• Ensure that the costume shop and all workspaces are kept in a clean, organized and safe manner.
• Communicate any maintenance requests or concerns to Costume Shop Manager and Costume Director.
• Move costume supplies into the BPAC and return them to storage at the beginning and end of the festival.
Dates of Employment:
Monday, May 26 – Friday, July 25, 2025.
Compensation:
$700/week during the festival season, overtime after 50 hours at a rate of $16.80/hour.
$300 travel stipend to be paid upon arrival.
DMMO will provide single occupancy air-conditioned dormitory housing during the residency period.
Skills and Knowledge
Any Combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying. Typical qualifications would be equivalent to:
• 2+ years of experience working in a costume shop.
• Proficiency in hand and machine sewing.
• Minimum BA/BFA in Theatre or equivalent professional experience
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
• Work includes periods of sitting/standing, working in low light, and climbing stairs/ladders
Application Process:
Submit resume and cover letter via email with the subject line “Stitcher Dresser” or by mail to:
Production@dmmo.org
Attention: Bridget Anderson, Assistant Production Manager
Deadline:
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applicant screening process to begin immediately.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Des Moines Metro Opera celebrates diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate against any employee or job applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, creed, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, age, veteran status, political affiliation or philosophy. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.