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ArtsFAirfax

Costume Designer, The Alden's 2026 Youth Production

ArtsFAirfax, Mc Lean, Virginia, us, 22107

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Costume Designer, The Alden’s 2026 Youth Production

Posted On:

October 23, 2025

Location : 1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean VA 22101

“The Wizard of Oz” adapted by Erin Detrick, produced by special arrangement with Playscripts, Inc.

When Dorothy drops into the Land of Oz, only one thing is certain: she’s got to find a way back to Kansas. A funny and fast-paced journey down the yellow brick road ensues, as Dorothy and her new friends travel to the fabled Emerald City to meet the Great Oz. When Oz demands a steep price for sending her home, a perilous new adventure begins. This imaginative adaptation captures the heart of L. Frank Baum’s classic tale.

Auditions:

Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 13 and 14, 7-9 p.m. Call Backs:

Thursday, Jan. 15, 7-9 p.m. Rehearsals:

Tuesday – Thursday 7-9 p.m. February and March. Performances:

Saturday and Sunday, March 21 and 22, 2 p.m

Design a cohesive collection of costumes based on Director’s vision of the show. Costumes may be created, rented or purchased, but overall total must stay within budget.

The Costume Designer is responsible for collaborating with the Director to create a cohesive hair and makeup look that aligns with the overall vision of the production. They will communicate this look clearly to the youth cast and/or their guardians.

The Costume Designer may also be asked to assist with minor hair and makeup needs during tech rehearsals and performance days.

The Costume Designer must schedule all costume fittings in advance in coordination with the Director and Stage Manager, based on the rehearsal schedule.

If any costume items or show-specific attire need to be provided by the youth actors, this must be communicated ahead of time to both the cast and the Stage Management team so the message can be relayed to parents and guardians.

Costume Designer has access to The Alden’s modest costume collection.

Costumes must be designed with the safety and modesty of young actors at the forefront—especially for any possible quick changes.

Final costumes must be ready by a mutually agreed upon date or earlier.

Create costumes in own space or, in coordination with The Alden’s TD, space on site may be used.

Coordinate with Director if any costume pieces are needed during rehearsal and have all rehearsal costumes ready at agreed upon date or earlier.

Organize, track and maintain costumes through tech week and run of performance.

Strike costumes within one week after show is complete.

Attend all production meetings, read all rehearsal reports and communicate in a timely manner with production staff. Respond to any suggestions or changes from the Director and Producer.

A mutually agreed “NO MORE CHANGES DATE” date will be set to indicate the last time a major design request can be made by the Director. The only required changes past this point are for safety.

Adhere to the rules and regulations of the Alden Theatre and the McLean Community Center including the Fairfax County Harassment Policy (Procedural Memorandum 39-06). Designer must sign compliance with policy.

Other duties deemed necessary by the Producer.

Qualifications

Age 21 or older

Bachelor’s Degree in Theatre, Costume Design, Fashion, or related field OR equivalent professional experience

Minimum 2–3 years of experience designing or coordinating costumes, preferably in youth or educational theatre

Strong communication and organizational skills, especially when working with children and families

Experience collaborating with directors and production teams to create cohesive visual designs

Familiarity with hair and makeup design or willingness to coordinate basic looks in line with director’s vision

Ability to assist with basic hair/makeup needs during tech and performance days

Must be comfortable scheduling and running costume fittings with youth actors

Understanding of costume safety and comfort for performers of various ages and abilities

Special Requirements:

The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check and a check of the Child Protective Services Registry to the satisfaction of the employer.

Working Conditions:

Office, indoor/outdoor recreational facility and professional theatre environment; exposure to computer screens. Schedule will primarily be evening and weekend hours.

Essential and marginal functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for walking, standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time; moderate or light lifting and carrying; ability to visually and audibly supervise.

Compensation :

$3,500; Paid as an honorarium via check or ACH deposit within 30 days after completion of required tasks. Any approved purchases made by the Costume Designer will be reimbursed within 30 days after receipts are received.

Location : 1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean VA 22101

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