2023 - 2024 THEATRE HANDBOOK

COSTUME PROCEDURES
QUICK CHANGES
Each Dresser/Wardrobe Assistant should:
1. confirm with the Costume Manager which actors they will be assisting with quick changes.
2. Reference the Show Run Plot to determine the timing and location of an assigned quick change.
3. Choreograph the process with the actor. This should be scheduled by the Costume Manager, Stage Manager, and
Ms. Patti.
4. As the actor goes onstage, the Dresser/Wardrobe Assistant should look the actors over to ensure that they are
presentable before they step onto the stage; there should not be threads or lint hanging from the costumes. Confirm
that all fasteners are closed appropriately, and accessories, wigs, etc. are placed correctly. Make sure that ties are
straight, shoes are tied, shirts are tucked in if necessary etc. The Dresser/Wardrobe Assistants are the mirrors for
the actors during a quick change: they must make sure that all aspects of the actor’s appearance are pristine and
stage-ready.
COSTUME “EMERGENCY” KIT
The Costume “Emergency Kit” should be restocked at least one (1) week before tech week. The Dresser/Wardrobe
Assistants are responsible for making sure that the kits have everything that is required for them. The “Emergency Kits”
must include the following:
1. Safety pins of all sizes (approximately 5 of each size)
2. One (1) seam ripper
3. Bobby Pins (approximately fifteen [15])
4. A pair of scissors
5. Three (3) hand sewing needles varying in size
6. Thread of basic color(s).
PRE-SHOW RESTOCKING/CLEANING
The Costume Manager oversees restocking the costumes from the previous show within the first two (2) weeks after the
cast/crew list has been posted or by the first Production Meeting (whichever comes first). Collaborating with the Costumer,
the Costume Manager will be responsible for making sure that the costumes are put away correctly; however, the costume
crew is required to help with this process. Each costume has a designated category in which it falls under and MUST be put
away correctly. If there is any question where something should be restocked, consult with the Costumer. Restocking the
costumes includes but is not limited to just full costumes. Costume pieces such as shoes, hats, scarves, purses, ties,
badges, jewelry, glasses, etc. are all to be put away within the first two weeks. The sewing tables must be cleaned off as
well. There is an organizational system—put things where they go. Take out any trash and reline all the trash containers.