Work With Us
Work With Us at the American Shakespeare Center
Join our award-winning team in Staunton, Virginia, and help bring the magic of live theatre to life.
At the American Shakespeare Center (ASC), we’re all about passion—passion for theatre, for our community, and for creating transformative experiences. Our team thrives in a dynamic and creative environment set against the backdrop of the historic town of Staunton, Virginia. We believe in the power of storytelling, and we invite you to be part of that journey.
Culture at ASC
The American Shakespeare Center fosters a culture that promotes work/life balance, open communication, and community. Learn more about the Beliefs That Drive Our Actions.
Equal Opportunity Employer
At ASC, we celebrate diversity in our team and believe that inclusion makes us stronger. We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we do not discriminate based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other non-merit factors. We are committed to providing a workplace where everyone is welcomed and empowered to succeed.
Now Hiring
Current Job Openings at ASC
Why Staunton, VA?
Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton, Virginia, is where small-town charm meets a vibrant arts and culture scene. Just a 40-minute drive from Charlottesville and a little over 2 hours from Richmond, Staunton offers the best of both worlds—peaceful living with easy access to city life.
- A Cultural Gem: Whether you’re strolling through local galleries, enjoying unique cafes and shops, or taking in one of the town’s many live performances, Staunton offers a rich arts scene that feels like home to creative spirits.
- Adventure Awaits: With the Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park nearby, the natural beauty here invites you to explore, unwind, and recharge.
Curious to learn more about Staunton? Visit Staunton to discover why it’s the perfect place to work, play, and live.
Contact Us
Got questions? We’re here to help! Reach out to us at info@americanshakespearecenter.com for more information on working with us.
Wardrobe & Costume Shop Assistant (Part-Time)
Reports to: Wardrobe Manager and Wardrobe Supervisor
Compensation: $15.90 per hour
Classification: Part-Time, Non-Exempt (approximately 20 hours per week, up to 29 Hours per Week)
Location: Staunton, Virginia (On-Site)
Position Available Beginning: On or about August 10, 2026
The American Shakespeare Center seeks a Wardrobe & Costume Shop Assistant to support both wardrobe and costume shop operations in a fast-paced repertory theatre environment.
Serving as a key bridge between wardrobe and costume shop workflows, this position provides continuity from costume construction and fittings through technical rehearsals and performance runs. Working closely with the Wardrobe Manager, Wardrobe Supervisor, and production staff, the successful candidate will help maintain costumes, support wardrobe operations, assist with costume construction and alterations, and contribute to the successful execution of ASC productions.
This position offers hands-on experience in both wardrobe and costume shop operations within a professional repertory theatre environment, providing opportunities to develop skills across multiple aspects of theatrical production.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Support wardrobe operations during rehearsals and performances, including costume maintenance, laundry, presetting, quick changes, and backstage wardrobe duties as assigned.
- Assist with costume construction, alterations, fittings, and repairs for ASC productions.
- Help maintain costumes throughout production runs, ensuring garments remain performance-ready.
- Assist with the organization and maintenance of costume stock, supplies, equipment, and workspaces.
- Provide support for both wardrobe and costume shop operations based on departmental needs and production priorities.
- Serve as a key point of continuity between costume construction, technical rehearsals, and performance runs.
- Work collaboratively with wardrobe staff, costume shop personnel, performers, and production teams.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
QUALIFICATIONS
Preferred Skills and Experience:
- Experience in costume construction, sewing, wardrobe, costume maintenance, or related theatrical costume work preferred.
- Familiarity with sewing equipment, garment construction techniques, and basic costume repairs.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt to shifting production priorities.
- Comfort working both backstage and in a costume shop environment.
- Ability to work respectfully and collaboratively with performers, production staff, and fellow crew members.
- Experience working in theatre, costume shops, educational theatre, or related settings is a plus.
- Familiarity with repertory theatre, wardrobe run crews, or backstage operations is helpful but not required.
- Interest in Shakespeare, repertory theatre, and live performance is welcomed but not required.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND SCHEDULE
- Work Setting: On-site at the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, Virginia.
- Schedule & Hours: This is a part-time position averaging approximately 20 hours per week, with a maximum of 29 hours per week. Weekly hours and schedules will vary based on production needs. Typical scheduling may include Tuesday–Sunday availability, including evenings and weekends.
- Supervision: This position supports both wardrobe and costume shop operations and receives day-to-day direction from the Wardrobe Manager and Wardrobe Supervisor based on assigned duties and production needs.
- Overtime: Any overtime must be approved in advance and will be compensated in accordance with applicable wage and hour laws.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and carry up to 20lbs and perform the physical duties associated with costume shop and backstage wardrobe work, including standing, bending, reaching, climbing stairs, and working on your feet for extended periods.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
- Compensation: $15.90 per hour, paid bi-weekly.
- Benefits: Part-time employees may be eligible for select ASC employee privileges, including complimentary ASC performance tickets and a discount on Blackfriars Playhouse Gift Shop merchandise, in accordance with ASC policy. This part-time position is not eligible for ASC-sponsored full-time employee benefits. Any legally required benefits or protections will be administered in accordance with applicable law and ASC policy.
- Housing & Transportation: Employees are responsible for securing their own housing and transportation.
HOW TO APPLY
Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply through the following application form: Wardrobe & Costume Shop Assistant Application
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled with an anticipated start date on or about August 10, 2026.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
The American Shakespeare Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, veteran status, national origin, or disability.
The American Shakespeare Center values and supports collaboration, inclusion, and work/life balance. Our home in Staunton, Virginia, embodies these values through its livable, walkable downtown, low cost of living, diverse arts opportunities, easy access to cities like Richmond, Charlottesville, and Washington, D.C., and abundant outdoor activities in the surrounding Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains.
ABOUT THE AMERICAN SHAKESPEARE CENTER
The American Shakespeare Center is a nonprofit theatre company based in Staunton, Virginia, and home to the world’s only recreation of Shakespeare’s Blackfriars Playhouse. ASC advances understanding, imagination, and community by illuminating Shakespeare through performance, research, and education in the Blackfriars Playhouse and beyond.
Costume Technician / Shop Hand (Seasonal)
Reports to: Design Assist and the Production Manager
Pay Rate: $18/hour at 40 hours per week
Classification: Full-Time, Seasonal
Location: Staunton, Virginia (On-Site)
The Costume Technician / Shop Hand supports the American Shakespeare Center’s Production team by maintaining the organization, efficiency, and workflow of the costume shop while playing a vital role in constructing, altering, and maintaining costumes for repertory productions. Reporting to the Design Assistant and the Production Manager, this role collaborates with designers and production staff to ensure costumes are built with excellence, durability, and performance-ready artistry that bring ASC’s stories to life onstage.
Key Responsibilities
- Work in a team setting to implement the vision of the Costume Designer through, but not limited to: patterning, cutting, stitching, finishing, distressing, dyeing, and fabricating costume pieces and accessories
- Assists in the creation and interpretation of patterns as designed by the Costume Designer and assigned by the Design Assistant.
- Collaborates withthe Costume Designer on the execution of the design.
- Assist with costume construction and alterations.
- Attends fittings and assists as necessary.
- Assists with taking measurements and maintaining an accurate, up-to-date costume bible for current productions.
- Create costume patterns of the designer’s renderings using draping, drafting, and/or commercial patterns.
- Cut garments and communicate construction plans clearly to the Costume Team.
- Assists with any maintenance of costumes during the performance period, including, but not limited to: repairs, laundry, cobbling, and finding any lost or missing costume items.
- Assists in the maintenance and organization of the costume stock, as well as assisting with pulls for shows and any understudies that may need costumes or alterations.
Full Description available upon request.
Qualifications
Preferred Skills and Experience:
- Demonstrated interest and proficiency in costume construction, alteration, and clothing care techniques. This should include, but not be limited to:
- pattern draping and drafting,
- pattern adaptation and alteration,
- moderate-to-advanced sewing skills,
- basic sewing machine and serger repair knowledge,
- basic knowledge of tailoring, embroidery, craftwork, and fabric modification.
- Experience working in a professional theatre environment.
- Effective organizational, communication, and time-management abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple, overlapping productions, projects, and personnel.
- Basic proficiency in Zoom, Gmail, and Google Drive.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND SCHEDULE
Work Setting: On-site in a professional theatre costume shop at the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, Virginia.
Physical & Technical Requirements: Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull production materials; stand for extended periods; and perform detailed, hands-on sewing and costume construction requiring strong hand dexterity.
Materials & Safety: Occasional work with dyes, paints, varnishes, and other theatrical materials in a shop environment that follows safety best practices.
Schedule & Hours: Full-time, production-based schedule with variable hours, including extended build periods, tech, evenings, weekends, and performance weeks. (Final schedule depends on production calendar.)
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Pay Rate: $18.00/hour, full-time, non-exempt, seasonal.
Benefits, Housing & Travel: Health and benefits offered; possible housing assistance for out-of-town applicants; travel stipend or reimbursement may be available.
Local Applicants: Encouraged to apply.
HOW TO APPLY
Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by emailing a resume and portfolio to artistic@americanshakespearecenter.com with the subject line: (NAME) Costume Technician Submission
Please include photos of Works-In-Progress (WIPs) that highlight your costume construction, building, and technical skills. This is not a design position — we are looking for strong evidence of craftsmanship, execution, and production-ready work.
For best consideration, submit materials as soon as possible. This posting will remain open until the position is filled.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The American Shakespeare Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, veteran status, national origin, or disability.
The American Shakespeare Center values and supports collaboration, inclusion, and work/life balance. Our home in Staunton, Virginia, embodies these values through its livable, walkable downtown, low cost of living, diverse arts opportunities, easy access to cities like Richmond, Charlottesville, and Washington, D.C., and abundant outdoor activities in the surrounding Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. Learn more about ASC’s mission.
About the American Shakespeare Center
The American Shakespeare Center (ASC) is a nonprofit theatre company based in Staunton, Virginia, and home to the world’s only recreation of Shakespeare’s Blackfriars Playhouse. ASC is dedicated to engaging audiences through performances, education, and community programs.
What sets ASC apart:
- Historic Blackfriars Playhouse: The first-ever re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre.
- Innovative Education Programs: Workshops and lectures that make Shakespeare accessible to all.
Community Engagement: Partnerships and outreach initiatives fostering connections in the Shenandoah Valley and beyond. - Repertory Theatre: Year-round productions featuring both Shakespearean classics and contemporary works.
Located in Staunton, Virginia, ASC offers a unique arts and cultural experience in a historic, vibrant setting, with easy access to Charlottesville, Richmond, and Washington, DC.
Costume Shop Overhire (Part-Time)
Reports to: Design Assist
Pay Rate: $15.90 per hour, variable hours
Classification: Part-Time
Location: Staunton, Virginia (On-Site)
Position Summary
The American Shakespeare Center seeks a Costume Shop Overhire to support our costume and wardrobe departments during active production periods. This is a part-time, hourly position focused on assisting with costume construction, alterations, and general shop operations within a collaborative team environment.
This role is designed as a flexible support position, contributing to the workflow of the shop as needed rather than maintaining a consistent weekly schedule or carrying primary responsibility for production deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
Costume Construction & Execution
- Assist with sewing, cutting, and costume construction
- Support alterations and finishing work
- Add embellishments and detail work to costume pieces
- Assist with ironing, steaming, and garment care
Shop & Wardrobe Support
- Assist with organization and maintenance of costume shop and equipment
- Support fittings and wardrobe needs as assigned
- Contribute to general costume shop duties when not assigned to specific production tasks
Collaborative Contribution
- Work as part of the costume and wardrobe team to support production needs
- Participate in problem-solving around construction techniques and execution
- Share knowledge or best practices when appropriate (informal and not required)
Schedule & Work Structure
- Part-time, hourly position
- Highly variable schedule based on production needs
- Weekly hours are not guaranteed and may range from 0 to 20+ hours
- Scheduled during designated shop hours (which may include evenings and weekends)
- Primarily in-person in the ASC costume shop
This role is structured to remain part-time, with hours assigned based on production workflow.
Supervision
- Reports to the Design Assist
- Works in coordination with wardrobe leadership and production staff as assigned
- Functions as part of the shop’s daily workflow with regular direction
Qualifications
- Basic to intermediate sewing or garment construction skills
- Ability to follow direction and work collaboratively
- Strong attention to detail and reliability
Preferred:
- Experience in a costume shop, wardrobe, or similar environment
Position Scope
This role is intentionally structured as a support position:
- Not responsible for independently delivering full costume builds
- Not expected to supervise others
- Not responsible for carrying primary production deadlines
- Scope and hours adjust based on production needs
Compensation
- $15.90 per hour
- Paid bi-weekly
- Part-time position; not eligible for benefits
- Overtime (over 40 hours/week) paid in accordance with applicable law and with prior approval
HOW TO APPLY
Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by emailing a resume and portfolio to artistic@americanshakespearecenter.com with the subject line:
(NAME) Costume Overhire Submission
Please include photos of Works-In-Progress (WIPs) that highlight your costume construction, building, and technical skills. This is not a design position — we are looking for strong evidence of craftsmanship, execution, and production-ready work.
For best consideration, submit materials as soon as possible. This posting will remain open until the position is filled.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
The American Shakespeare Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, veteran status, national origin, or disability.
The American Shakespeare Center values and supports collaboration, inclusion, and work/life balance. Our home in Staunton, Virginia, embodies these values through its livable, walkable downtown, low cost of living, diverse arts opportunities, easy access to cities like Richmond, Charlottesville, and Washington, D.C., and abundant outdoor activities in the surrounding Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. Learn more about ASC’s mission.
ABOUT THE AMERICAN SHAKESPEARE CENTER
The American Shakespeare Center (ASC) is a nonprofit theatre company based in Staunton, Virginia, and home to the world’s only recreation of Shakespeare’s Blackfriars Playhouse. ASC is dedicated to engaging audiences through performances, education, and community programs.
What sets ASC apart:
- Historic Blackfriars Playhouse: The first-ever re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre
- Innovative Education Programs: Workshops and lectures that make Shakespeare accessible to all
- Community Engagement: Partnerships and outreach initiatives fostering connections in the Shenandoah Valley and beyond
- Repertory Theatre: Year-round productions featuring both Shakespearean classics and contemporary works
Located in Staunton, Virginia, ASC offers a unique arts and cultural experience in a historic, vibrant setting, with easy access to Charlottesville, Richmond, and Washington, DC.
Box Office Associate (Part-Time)
Reports to: Playhouse Manager
Pay Rate: $16/hour, tips eligible when bartending
Classification: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Location: Staunton, Virginia (on-site)
Who We Are
The American Shakespeare Center (ASC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Staunton, Virginia, home to the world’s first recreation of Shakespeare’s Blackfriars Playhouse. We produce world-class performances, deliver dynamic education programs, and foster an inclusive community through audience-focused storytelling.
About the Position — What You’ll Manage
You’ll serve as a front-line ambassador for the American Shakespeare Center. From the moment a patron calls to order a ticket to the instant they walk into the Playhouse, you’ll ensure a smooth, welcoming, and patron-centered journey. At the core of what we do is creating great experiences that keep our patrons coming back. You’ll support the box office, front-of-house, concessions, and gift shop, helping deliver excellent service at every step of the patron’s visit.
Core Responsibilities
Box Office Operations
- Greet patrons warmly and provide information about ASC and current productions.
- Process phone and in-person ticket orders through PatronManager.
- Return voicemail and email inquiries about ticket sales; forward messages as needed.
- Generate and maintain daily report templates.
- Manage the Will Call desk for performances.
- Communicate content warnings for productions clearly and compassionately.
Front of House & Patron Service
- Assist the House Manager before and during performances.
- Answer patron questions in the lobby or via phone/email.
- Maintain appearance and stock of bathrooms, lobbies, and gift shop areas.
- Help with recurring gift shop inventory and ring sales.
- Distribute mail to staff and company members’ Playhouse mailboxes.
Bartending
- Complete routine inventory of all bar items.
- Sell beverages and snacks during preshow and intermission.
- Maintain Virginia ABC certification and compliance.
- Handle cash payments and maintain a cash drawer.
Event & Development Support
- Assist with Development or cultivation events as needed.
- Provide general support for special performances or rentals.
Work Environment & Schedule
Status: Part-time, on-site position averaging 12–18 hours per week.
Flexibility: Schedule flexes with production and event calendars.
Typical Pattern: Wednesday–Sunday, with hours between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Sample Schedule (illustrative only; subject to change):
- Wednesday/Thursday: 9:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m., 5:30–10:30 p.m., or 6:00–9:30 p.m.
- Friday: 1:00–5:00 p.m., 5:30–10:30 p.m., or 6:00–9:30 p.m.
- Saturday/Sunday: 12:00–4:00 p.m. or 6:00–9:30 p.m.
Coverage Window: Box Office public hours vary by season but generally align with performance schedules. Typical hours include Wednesday–Friday afternoons and weekends prior to performances.
Holidays: Must be available to work major holidays and peak performance dates. Alternate days off provided.
Qualifications
Required
- Customer service, box office, or FOH experience.
- Clear, professional, and patron-friendly communication skills.
- Strong organizational and multitasking ability.
- Availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Virginia ABC training and certification (or ability to obtain).
Preferred
- Familiarity with PatronManager or other ticketing systems.
- Experience in a theatre or performing arts environment.
- Retail or concessions sales experience.
Compensation & Benefits
- $16/hour, part-time, non-exempt; tips are eligible when bartending.
- No benefits offered for this position.
- Complimentary ASC performance tickets.
How to Apply
Send your resume and a brief cover letter to info@americanshakespearecenter.com with the subject line: Box Office Associate Application. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and candidates are selected based on seasonal needs.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The American Shakespeare Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, veteran status, national origin, or disability.
The American Shakespeare Center values and supports collaboration, inclusion, and work/life balance. Our home in Staunton, Virginia, embodies these values through its livable, walkable downtown, low cost of living, diverse arts opportunities, easy access to cities like Richmond, Charlottesville, and Washington, D.C., and abundant outdoor activities in the surrounding Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. Learn more about ASC’s mission.
About the American Shakespeare Center
The American Shakespeare Center (ASC) is a nonprofit theatre company based in Staunton, Virginia, and home to the first-ever re-creation of Shakespeare’s Blackfriars Playhouse. ASC is dedicated to engaging audiences through performances, education, and community programs.
What sets ASC apart:
- Historic Blackfriars Playhouse: The first-ever re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre.
- Innovative Education Programs: Workshops and lectures that make Shakespeare accessible to all.
Community Engagement: Partnerships and outreach initiatives fostering connections in the Shenandoah Valley and beyond. - Repertory Theatre: Year-round productions featuring both Shakespearean classics and contemporary works.
Located in Staunton, Virginia, ASC offers a unique arts and cultural experience in a historic, vibrant setting, with easy access to Charlottesville, Richmond, and Washington, DC.
Internships & Fellowships
Launch Your Career in the Arts
Ready to jump-start your career in theatre or arts management? We offer internships and fellowships that give you hands-on experience in the heart of our operations. Whether you’re interested in artistic roles, marketing, development, or education, ASC has opportunities for you to grow.
Opportunities are available seasonally, and some positions may be remote. Send your resume and cover letter to the appropriate department to explore internship and fellowship possibilities:
- Artistic: artistic@americanshakespearecenter.com
- (To learn more about upcoming audition opportunities, visit our Auditions Page.)
- Marketing: marketing@americanshakespearecenter.com
- Development: development@americanshakespearecenter.com
- Education: education@americanshakespearecenter.com
- Administration: info@americanshakespearecenter.com
ASC Theatre Camp
Mentor the Next Generation of Theatre-Makers
Do you love working with young, passionate performers? At our ASC Theatre Camp, you’ll have the opportunity to mentor the next generation of actors, directors, and theatre-makers. If you’re interested in helping young creatives shine, check out our camp positions and be a part of something magical.
Work at the ASC Theatre Camp
Auditions
Perform at the Blackfriars Playhouse
Dream of stepping onto the historic stage of the Blackfriars Playhouse? We regularly hold auditions for a variety of productions, and we’re always excited to welcome new talent. To learn more about upcoming audition opportunities, visit our Auditions Page.