At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in costume design for a vibrant theatre production, focusing on 1980s and 1990s queer fashion.
- Company: Join the Donmar Warehouse, a leader in inclusive theatre and professional development.
- Benefits: Earn £135/day, gain mentorship, and access to a supportive creative community.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and travel bursaries available for candidates outside London.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in theatre with hands-on experience and valuable industry connections.
- Qualifications: Experience in costume design or supervision on fringe productions; passion for inclusivity in the arts.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 3 August 2026
Department: Catalyst
Employment Type: Freelance
Location: Donmar Warehouse Theatre
Reporting To: Costume Designer, Ryan Dawson Laight and Head of Inclusion and Skills, Stacey Carr
Compensation: £135 / day
Description
Mission: Creating equitable access to the industry is a core Donmar value. CATALYST is a professional development programme for those who have been historically underrepresented at the Donmar and within the sector. We are interested in supporting artists who identify as being a part of the global majority, trans, non-binary, D/deaf or disabled, neurodivergent or from a lower socio-economic background. The programme provides key professional development for these artists to catapult their careers to the next level, preparing them to thrive and lead in the theatre sector.
About the role: As a part of the Donmar’s CATALYST professional development training programme, the role is an opportunity for outstanding, early-career artists to receive bespoke training, both practical and observational, by assisting the Designer to realise the set and costume design for a Donmar production. The goal is to gain insight into a high-level production process while developing and strengthening your skills and artistic voice.
About the Production: This production will sit in the reality of the 1980s and 1990s with an emphasis on queer fashion. It is not necessary to have significant experience in making as most items will be sourced. It is important that candidates have an eagle-eye focus on details and emotional intelligence as you will be working closely with actors as they develop their characters.
Key Responsibilities:
- Attend and take notes at rehearsals and production meetings
- Attend meetings at the workshop and other offsite locations
- Assist with sourcing costumes and costume fittings
- Collaborate with stage management team and Props Supervisor
- Attend technical rehearsals and previews, assisting as necessary
- Serve as a proactive member of the team, willing to fill any gaps that arise
Please see the attached Recruitment Pack for full details.
Terms and Dates
Fixed Term Freelance Contract, 25-30 days between 31st August and 20th October at £135 per day (+1.5 day rate during tech)
AVAILABILITY
Key Dates:
- 1-3 Days Introductory Work/Onboarding: Week commencing 24th August 2026
- Rehearsals Commence: 31st August 2026
- Fit Up/Tech Week: 5th to 10 October 2026
- Previews: 10th - 16th October 2026
- Press Night: 2nd October 2026
Working hours: Flexible–dates and hours to be mutually agreed with the Costume Designer and Head of Inclusion and Skills
Travel and accommodation bursaries are available for candidates based outside of London
Person Specification
Essential Criteria:
- Experience as a lead Costume designer (or equivalent experience as a Costume Supervisor) on at least 4 fringe level productions (gained outside of a Higher Education setting as a student)
- Experience of working with professional creative teams
- Experience of working with professional technical and stage management teams
- Able to demonstrate and articulate a clear artistic vision and reason for pursuing the opportunity and why this is a crucial next step for their creative practice and career
- At least one element of your identity or an intersection of identities that is currently underrepresented in creative roles in the theatre industry (Global majority, trans, non-binary, D/deaf or disabled, neurodivergent or from a lower socio-economic background)
What You Will Receive
- Access to mentorship from a leading practitioner in the development of a large scale, ambitious production
- Mentoring support from the Head of Inclusion and Skills and the Resident Assistant Director
- Company-wide investment in your professional development where we encourage you to connect with the wider Donmar community as much as possible to gain insight into the sector at large
- A 1-hour mentoring session with a leading theatre maker post-contract
- Access to a vibrant and active Donmar trainee alumni community of emerging directors and designers which includes post-contract invites to networking mixers and Donmar productions, ongoing coaching and mentorship as needed, as well as other learning and professional development opportunities from our sector partners and beyond
CATALYST | Assistant Costume Designer - Ilford Boy in London employer: DONMAR WAREHOUSE
The Donmar Warehouse Theatre is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment through its CATALYST programme. This role offers early-career artists invaluable mentorship and professional development opportunities, allowing them to thrive in the theatre sector while working closely with experienced professionals. With a commitment to equitable access and a vibrant community of emerging talent, the Donmar provides a unique platform for growth and creativity in the heart of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CATALYST | Assistant Costume Designer - Ilford Boy in London
✨Put Your Work on Display
As a freelancer in the fashion-apparel sector, your portfolio is your best friend. Make sure to create an eye-catching online presence—think stylish website or Instagram page showcasing your designs. This is where your creativity can shine and attract potential clients like DONMAR WAREHOUSE!
✨Join Fashion Communities
Get involved in fashion communities, both online and offline. Websites like Behance or DeviantArt are great for showcasing your work, while attending local fashion events or trade shows can help you network with brands and potential clients, opening doors for freelance gigs.
✨Leverage Social Media Marketing
As a freelancer, social media is your marketing engine. Start sharing your creations on platforms like Instagram and TikTok with relevant hashtags to build visibility in the fashion scene. Engage with other creators and brands to boost your discoverability—who knows, DONMAR WAREHOUSE might just stumble upon your work!
✨Pitch Directly to Brands
Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; be proactive! Research brands you love, like DONMAR WAREHOUSE, and reach out with tailored pitches and links to your portfolio. Show them how your unique style can add value to their brand, and you could land some exciting freelance opportunities.
We think you need these skills to ace CATALYST | Assistant Costume Designer - Ilford Boy in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Style with a Portfolio:As a freelance fashion-apparel professional, your portfolio is your best friend! Make sure to include a diverse range of your work that reflects your unique style and versatility. Whether it's sketches, completed outfits, or even photoshoots you've styled, these visuals speak volumes about your capabilities.
Tailor Your CV to Fashion Trends:When crafting your CV, highlight any relevant experience in the fashion industry. List your design skills, any fashion shows you’ve participated in, and collaborations with other creatives. Don’t forget to mention current trends you’re familiar with – this shows you’re in tune with what’s happening in the industry!
Specify Your Rates and Availability:Since this is a freelance gig, be upfront about your rates and availability in your application. It helps DONMAR WAREHOUSE to understand if you’re a good fit for their budget and timeline. A clear mention not only shows professionalism but also sets the right expectations from the get-go.
Express Your Passion for Fashion:In your cover letter, let your passion for fashion shine through! Share why you’re excited about the opportunity with DONMAR WAREHOUSE and how your freelance work can bring something fresh and innovative. This personal touch can make a big difference and help you stand out among other applicants.
How to prepare for a job interview at DONMAR WAREHOUSE
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
As a freelancer in fashion-apparel, your portfolio is your best friend. Bring along a well-curated selection of your best designs, sketches, and final products. Be prepared to explain your creative process and the inspiration behind your work—this is where you can really shine!
✨Know Your Fabrics and Trends
Brush up on the latest trends and fabric technologies relevant to your niche in fashion-apparel. Be ready to discuss how you select materials and create pieces that not only look good but also fit current market trends. It shows you’re passionate and informed, which clients love!
✨Pitch Your Unique Style
Freelancing means you’re essentially pitching yourself and your unique style. Prepare a concise elevator pitch about what makes you different as a designer. Highlight your skills, style influences, and how you can address the specific needs of DONMAR WAREHOUSE. The more genuine and enthusiastic you are, the better!
✨Be Ready for Collaboration Questions
Freelancers often need to work closely with clients and other creatives. Expect questions about how you handle feedback, work with teams, or adapt your designs based on client requests. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully collaborated or adapted to feedback!
