Wardrobe Manager

Wardrobe Manager

Reading Full-Time No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a wardrobe team for a magical live theatrical event.
  • Company: Join LaplandUK, a spectacular immersive experience loved by over 170,000 guests each winter.
  • Benefits: Earn £22/hour plus £50 daily subsistence; accommodation available if needed.
  • Why this job: Be part of an award-winning production creating unforgettable festive memories.
  • Qualifications: Experience in wardrobe management and strong leadership skills required.
  • Other info: Contract runs from July 25 to January 2026; early applications encouraged!

Wardrobe Manager – £22/hour + £50 daily subsistence

Location: Ascot

Start: July 25 to Jan 2026

Accommodation: Available if needed

Join the magic of LaplandUK – one of the UK’s most spectacular live experiences

Each winter, over 170,000 guests (including royalty and celebrities) step into a 30-acre immersive world, crafted by Hollywood set designers and West End creatives. Recently featured in a Channel 4 Christmas special, LaplandUK is a fully walk-through, live theatrical event that transforms festive storytelling into unforgettable memories.

We’re looking for a highly organised and experienced Wardrobe Manager to lead our wardrobe department for the 2025 season. If you\’re a calm, capable leader with experience in live shows, theatre tours, immersive events, or large-scale productions, we’d love to hear from you.

About the Role

As Wardrobe Manager, you’ll oversee a team of 5 supervisors and 20+ assistants, ensuring smooth costume operations for a live cast of over 1,000 performers. From managing quick changes and laundry to maintaining high costume standards, this role suits someone who thrives in high-energy environments and has a sharp eye for detail.

  • Pay: £22.00 per hour + £50 per working day in subsistence/accommodation provided
  • Contract Dates: 25 July – 26 January

Key Responsibilities

  • Recruit, train, and manage a team of around 25 wardrobe staff
  • Deliver costume and presentation training to the wider cast
  • Oversee day-to-day wardrobe operations including: Costume get-in and de-rig, Dressing and quick changes, Laundry, repairs, and costume maintenance, Stock control and documentation
  • Liaise with the Costume Manager on costume standards and issue resolution
  • Manage rotas, payroll, wardrobe tracking, and daily reporting
  • Foster a calm, collaborative, and efficient backstage culture
  • Carry out hand and machine sewing repairs as needed

What We’re Looking For

  • Experience as a Wardrobe Manager or Wardrobe Supervisor
  • Experience managing a team of 4 or more staff
  • Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to remain calm, organised, and detail-focused under pressure
  • Sewing and costume repair experience (hand and machine)
  • Comfortable managing schedules, documentation, and logistics

Why Work With Us

  • Join a one-of-a-kind, award-winning theatrical production
  • Work alongside a passionate and creative team
  • Help create magical memories for families from across the UK
  • Enjoy competitive pay, great energy, and a festive working atmosphere

Apply now to be part of something extraordinary.

  • Interviews are ongoing — early applications encouraged!

Wardrobe Manager employer: LaplandUK

At LaplandUK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant and festive environment that brings joy to families across the UK. Our collaborative culture fosters creativity and teamwork, while competitive pay and accommodation support ensure our staff feel valued and comfortable. Join us in creating unforgettable experiences as part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering magic during the holiday season.
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Contact Detail:

LaplandUK Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Wardrobe Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the theatre and live event industry. Attend local theatre productions or workshops to meet people who might have connections to LaplandUK or similar events. Building relationships can often lead to job opportunities.

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your leadership skills by volunteering for roles that require team management, even if they are outside of wardrobe management. This experience will demonstrate your ability to lead a team effectively, which is crucial for the Wardrobe Manager position.

✨Tip Number 3

Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges of managing costumes in high-pressure environments like live shows. Consider researching case studies or speaking to current Wardrobe Managers to understand best practices and common pitfalls.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your sewing and costume repair skills in detail during interviews. Bring examples of your work or a portfolio that highlights your experience with both hand and machine sewing, as this will set you apart from other candidates.

We think you need these skills to ace Wardrobe Manager

Leadership Skills
Team Management
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Attention to Detail
Sewing Skills (Hand and Machine)
Costume Maintenance
Organisational Skills
Ability to Work Under Pressure
Logistics Management
Documentation Skills
Training and Development
Collaboration Skills
Time Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in wardrobe management or similar roles. Emphasise your leadership skills and any specific achievements in live shows or theatre productions.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the unique qualities you bring. Mention your experience with managing teams and your ability to thrive in high-energy environments.

Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your sewing and costume repair skills, as well as your experience with logistics and documentation. These are crucial for the Wardrobe Manager position.

Showcase Team Management Experience: Provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Discuss your approach to training and fostering a collaborative environment, which is essential for this role.

How to prepare for a job interview at LaplandUK

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Wardrobe Manager, you'll be leading a team of supervisors and assistants. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you motivate your team, and any challenges you've faced in managing a large group.

✨Demonstrate Your Attention to Detail

This role requires a sharp eye for detail, especially when it comes to costume maintenance and presentation. Bring examples of how you've ensured high standards in past productions and be ready to discuss your approach to quality control.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities under pressure. Think of specific scenarios where you've had to manage quick changes or resolve costume issues during a live performance, and explain how you handled them.

✨Familiarise Yourself with the Production

Research LaplandUK and its unique immersive experience. Understanding the production's ethos and audience will help you align your answers with their vision and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.

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