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Backstage Dresser Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hale Centre Theatre

Dresser - Wardrobe

Sandy, UT · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

The Wardrobe Crew Members will provide hands-on assistance with costumes to actors in their dressing rooms and/or backstage. Wardrobe crew members may be required to act as stitchers in the costume ...

University of Michigan

Wardrobe Manager

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$52K - $58K/yr

Coordinate backstage schedule and wardrobe paperwork with shop manager, costume designer, stage management and wig/makeup personnel. Communicate wardrobe notes with the designer and shop manager.

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Backstage Dresser information

See salary details

$31K

$58K

$83K

How much do backstage dresser jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for backstage dresser in the United States is $57,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $63,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backstage dresser?

Backstage Dressers are theater professionals responsible for assisting performers with costume changes during live shows and rehearsals. They ensure costumes are properly maintained, quick changes happen smoothly, and any last-minute repairs are handled efficiently. Dressers work closely with costume designers and actors to guarantee that all costumes are ready and fit correctly, contributing to the overall success of a production. Their role requires discretion, organization, and a thorough understanding of the show's wardrobe needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backstage dresser, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backstage Dresser, you need a solid understanding of costume care, quick-change techniques, and garment repair, usually supported by experience in theater or fashion. Familiarity with sewing machines, wardrobe tracking software, and basic costume maintenance tools is often essential. Strong attention to detail, adaptability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for managing fast-paced changes and collaborating with performers and crew. These abilities ensure smooth costume transitions and contribute to the overall success and professionalism of theatrical productions.

What are some common challenges faced by backstage dressers during live performances?

Backstage dressers often work in fast-paced, high-pressure environments where timing and attention to detail are crucial. One common challenge is executing quick costume changes within tight timeframes, sometimes in low-light or crowded backstage areas. Dressers must also be adaptable, as last-minute alterations or unexpected issues with costumes can occur. Strong communication and teamwork with performers and other crew members are essential to ensure smooth transitions and maintain the flow of the performance.

What is the difference between Backstage Dresser vs Costume Designer?

AspectBackstage DresserCostume Designer
CredentialsExperience in wardrobe management, sometimes certifications in costume or fashionFashion or costume design degree, portfolio
Work EnvironmentAssist with costumes backstage, quick changes, wardrobe maintenanceDesigning costumes, collaborating with directors and actors
Industry UsageUsed across theater, TV, film productions for wardrobe supportPrimarily in theater, film, TV for costume creation and design

Backstage Dressers focus on managing costumes backstage, assisting actors with quick changes, and maintaining wardrobe continuity. Costume Designers create original costumes, design concepts, and oversee costume production. While both roles work closely in the costume department, Dressers handle the practical, hands-on wardrobe support, whereas Designers are responsible for the creative and conceptual aspects of costumes.

What cities are hiring for Backstage Dresser jobs?

Cities with the most Backstage Dresser job openings:

What states have the most Backstage Dresser jobs?

States with the most job openings for Backstage Dresser jobs include:

Infographic showing various Backstage Dresser job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,960 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Dresser - Wardrobe

Hale Centre Theatre

Sandy, UT • On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Hale Centre Theatre rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 6 rated theaters

Job description

Wardrobe Dressers are responsible for the care and maintenance of finished costumes as used in the production. The Wardrobe Crew Members will provide hands-on assistance with costumes to actors in their dressing rooms and/or backstage. Wardrobe crew members may be required to act as stitchers in the costume shop or in another costume-related field as determined by the Wardrobe Supervisor, Head of Costuming and Wardrobe.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Review of costumes prior to each performance. 
  • Assist with costumes load-in, strike, and dressing as assigned. 
  • Assist actors with dressing and quick changes. 
  • Maintenance of show costumes including laundry and repair. 
  • Maintain a clean and safe workspace. 
  • Perform pre-show setup and post-show clean up. 
  • Perform emergency costume repairs as necessary. 
  • Attend dress rehearsals as needed. 
  • Ensure proper placement of costume pieces prior to show. 
  • Any other tasks as requested by the Wardrobe Supervisor, Head of Costuming and Wardrobe and/or the PM. 

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS: 

  • Previous dressing experience preferred. Theatrical run crew required.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills. 
  • Ability to maintain a professional demeanor when working backstage with performers and fellow crew members.
  • Must be 18 yrs of age.

Hourly compensation commensurate with experience. Individual compensation packages are based on various factors unique to each candidate, including skill set, experience, and qualifications.

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