Description
Disney Theatrical Group is recruiting a passionate, skilled and motivated Head of Wardrobe to join the production of The Lion King, London on a permanent basis. Disney is committed to a diverse, inclusive workplace and welcomes applicants of all backgrounds and identities.
As Head of Wardrobe, you will play a pivotal role in maintaining the iconic looks that bring the characters of the Pride Lands to life.
Working alongside the Company Manager, Technical, Creative Team and Production staff, this role supports the daily running of a large-scale musical production.
Your Role in the Circle of Life
- Act as the primary liaison between Company Management, Technical teams, Creative teams, Production, General Management, and staff to ensure the smooth delivery of rehearsals and performances.
- Communicate with the Company Manager, Production, General Management and the Creative Team on any day-to-day changes that might impact the running of the Production.
- Supervise tasks and support team members in teaching workroom and backstage practices.
- Train and oversee local dressers and maintenance teams ensuring safe, efficient handling of costumes.
- Manage daily costume operations including pre-sets, show tracks, repairs, laundry, and performance adjustments.
- Maintain and coordinate all wardrobe requirements for understudy and swing performances to ensure show continuity.
- Ensure all costumes are delivered to the highest standard and are performance ready.
- Conduct fittings, alterations, repairs and technical requirements when required.
- Learn and provide cover for all backstage wardrobe tracks as needed.
- Attend rehearsal, technical, dress and understudy rehearsals as required.
- Maintain accurate wardrobe documentation and ensure effective communication across departments.
- Identify and resolve wardrobe issues during performances calmly and efficiently.
- Acquire a familiarity with all plots/tracks within the Wardrobe department to provide holiday or absence cover for other members of the department as required.
- Attend weekly head of department meetings.
- Ensure full compliance with Health and Safety policies, maintaining excellent knowledge of legislation and best practices, and liaising closely with Disney's H&S manager.
What We're Looking For
- Experience: Previous work in a similar role on a large-scale theatrical production preferred.
- Leadership: Strong managerial skills with the ability to lead and support a team effectively.
- Technical Skills: Extensive knowledge of costume construction, fabric types (including silk, Spandex, painted textiles) and repair techniques.
- Maintenance Expertise: Proven experience in maintaining and laundering stage costumes to a high standard.
- Problem-Solving: Calm, quick-thinking, and capable of addressing wardrobe issues in real time during performances.
- Collaborative Communication: Excellent relationship and interpersonal skills with the cast, creative and production teams essential.
- Interpersonal Finesse: Ability to build strong, respectful relationships with cast, creatives, and crew, while remaining a steady and supportive presence backstage
- Health & Safety Awareness: Solid working knowledge of relevant H&S legislation and safe practices within a backstage
The Right Fit: You Are...
- A calm and confident problem-solver who thrives under pressure and adapts with agility.
- A collaborative spirit, respectful, open, and team-oriented
- Able to follow instructions and uphold department rules with professionalism.
- A motivated individual with a drive to learn new skills and a clear understanding of what it takes to maintain consistent, high production standards.
- Discretion and ability to work closely with others.
- Organised, detail-oriented, and driven by excellence in everything you do.
Additional Information
- Start Date: Early - Mid September
- Hours: 48 hours per week
- Schedule: Tuesday to Sunday (evening and weekend show schedule)
- This role will require the candidate to understand and follow the Health and Safety Rules & Regulations in place at the production.