American Ballet Theatre (ABT) is one of the greatest dance companies in the world. Since its founding season in 1940, ABT’s mission has been to create, present, preserve, and extend the incredible repertoire of classical dancing for the widest possible audience. Headquartered in New York City, ABT is the only cultural institution of its size and stature to extensively tour, enchanting audiences for eight decades in 50 U.S. states, 45 countries, and over 480 cities worldwide. ABT’s repertoire includes full-length classics from the nineteenth century, the finest works from the early twentieth century, and acclaimed contemporary masterpieces. In 2006, by an act of Congress, ABT was designated “America’s National Ballet Company®.”
The Assistant Hair & Make-Up Supervisor is responsible for assisting the Supervisor in all areas of the HMU department. Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: preproduction planning, wig care & styling, maintaining inventory & supplies, documenting & archiving HMU ballet designs & notes as well as execution of hair styling and make up application.
The assistant supervisor is responsible for coordinating with & reporting to the Hair & Make-Up Supervisor in overseeing both ABT and local HMU departments at the warehouse in Secaucus, NJ and on tour, both domestically and internationally. This position requires excellence in the evaluation and maintenance of all HMU elements to ensure that all designs uphold the integrity and high standards of ABT. This position is part of the touring company of ABT and will require travel both internationally and domestic along with work at our warehouse in Secaucus, NJ. Union
membership is required for this position as this role falls under the ABT Ballet Pink contract with IATSE.
Directly report to the ABT Hair & Make-Up Supervisor on all matters related to this department. Applying wigs, make up, styling hair, running a show track & executing quick changes for each ballet. Styling wigs and hair pieces for established ballets and working with designers to develop new ballet designs. Executing make up designs & make up application, including prosthetic application and removal.Assist in the load-in, set-up, tech, pre-show, running of performances, strike, and load-out of all ABT productions. Assist in the preparation and pack of all HMU elements for tours both domestically and internationally. Assist with documentation and all archival notations, as well as maintaining wig stock inventory.Assist in maintaining a workable inventory of all HMU supplies required for the department.Assist in maintaining all HMU shop equipment and keeping a safe, clean and organized working environment.Assist in overseeing operations of ABT HMU crew and local HMU artists. Adhere to all local IATSE rules and regulations along with all rules outlined in the ABT IATSE Pink Contract, and ABT handbookAttend all production meetings as required. Collaborate with all other departments in ABT production
Essential Skills and Qualifications
Experience running live theatrical performance with an in depth understanding of stage etiquette, terminology for a theatrical environment, with a specialization in Hair, Wigs and Make-up. Strong understanding of makeup and ability to apply theatrical, stage, beauty, old age, character make ups. Ability to apply & remove prosthetics, facial hair, bald caps and additional special effects make up including but not limited to tattoo coverage. Strong execution of hair & wig styling including but not limited to updos, period styling, braiding Knowledge of period hair history Knowledge of all hair types and textures, including human, yak, and synthetic hair Proficiency in roller sets, understanding patterns and roller sizes to achieve designs Competency with all types of hot tools for human hair, wigs, and facial hair Proficiency in wig and facial hair maintenance ie: washing, blocking and maintenance for all pieces Proficiency with various types of wig preps, as well as an understanding of functional wig pining and hat application Ability to accurately cut wigs, facial hair and hair pieces to desired styles and lengths. Knowledge of industry products, types of hair pieces and wigs Ability to ventilate Ability to read, interpret and create theatrical paperwork. Basic computer proficiency with email, google drive, excel, dropbox Strong understanding of performers needs. Ability to work under time constraints, and high pressure while maintaining a controlled and positive attitude. Valid passport required for international touring. Current IATSE membership or ability to join upon hiring with payment of ACT initiation fee
American Ballet Theatre is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We are committed to recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting qualified people of all backgrounds, and make all employment decisions without regard to any protected status.
