At a Glance
- Tasks: Support daily operations in a vibrant theatre environment, ensuring performers look their best.
- Company: Join the magical team at Lapland UK, creating unforgettable experiences.
- Benefits: Earn £15.85 per hour, enjoy free meals, and receive travel subsidies.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic team with flexible shifts and great career opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting live show and make a real impact on performers' appearances.
- Qualifications: Experience in live theatre and knowledge of wig maintenance are essential.
The predicted salary is between 15.85 - 15.85 £ per hour.
The WHAM Assistant plays a critical role in ensuring continuity, maintaining standards, and supporting the smooth daily operational flow within the principles and FC departments. In this position, the WHAM Assistants support the daily WHAM operation, consistent delivery of department‑wide quality. The WHAM Assistant is expected to uphold the highest standards of practice across the department, ensuring that all health and safety procedures, WHAM protocols, and performance‑ready standards are consistently met. Strong communication skills and a calm, professional presence during high‑pressure and busy periods are essential.
WHAM & Wardrobe Structure
The WHAM room sits within the wardrobe structure closest to our principal department. The department is made up of three sub‑departments, each with a dedicated team assigned for the duration of the run:
- Principals department – supports 50 performers daily, ensuring all actors apply makeup correctly, offer support with hair prep, apply wigs and facial hair to the highest standard, and manage hats for a 12‑hour performance schedule.
- Father Christmas – supports 50 Father Christmas performers throughout the day, maintaining facial hair and makeup presentation, and providing training to the FC wardrobe assistants.
- Groups – works with ensemble and crowd performers; over 200 elves are dressed across 15 different costume designs, requiring excellent organisation, consistency, quality control, and rapid turnaround.
Show & Shift Information
The show runs daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, with a new audience beginning every 30 minutes. Each audience experiences ~1.5 hours of scripted performance, followed by ~1.5 hours of immersive free time in the Elven Village, before meeting Father Christmas. WHAM shifts – AM: 6:00 am – 3:00 pm; PM: 2:45 pm – 11:45 pm. The show operates 7 days a week. Wardrobe schedules follow a 5 days on / 2 days off rota, with no guaranteed weekend days off.
Key Responsibilities
- To apply wigs, facial hair and hats to actors securely.
- To assist actors with their make‑up looks if needed and ensure make‑up is kept clean and hygienic between shows.
- To ensure wigs and facial hair are dressed to the highest standard and styles are kept in line with the designs in the wig bible.
- To understand the different types of hair each wig is made of (synthetic, human hair, textured hair) and how to care for it correctly.
- To develop an exceptional knowledge of the wigs and the wig standards.
- To maintain existing systems used for the smooth running of every shift/show.
- To complete all set up and closing duties necessary for the department to run seamlessly.
- To follow cast lists in order to set the correct wigs for each day of shows.
- To keep the WHAM room clean and tidy.
- To have a good knowledge of health and safety protocols.
- To work closely alongside the WHAM Manager on duty to ensure full support to the cast and the rest of the team.
- To effectively communicate running and handover notes to WHAM Manager and WHAM team.
- To respond quickly and efficiently to any one‑set WHAM calls.
- To attend training days specified by the WHAM Manager.
- To maintain a supportive and positive WHAM environment with the cast and team.
- To represent the company and comply with company policies.
Key Attributes
- Excellent teamwork and communication.
- Passion for the role and the company.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Proven experience in live theatre.
- Knowledge of wig maintenance techniques.
- Experience washing and caring for wigs.
Location & Dates
Lapland UK Live Site, Manchester: Capesthorne Hall, Macclesfield SK1 19JY
Start Date: 1st November 2026
Preview Day: 4th November 2026
Opening Day: 7th November 2026
End Date: 24th December 2026
De‑Rig: 27th December – 30th December
Interview location: Capesthorne Hall (interviews will be held at this venue).
Pay Rate & Contract
Pay Rate: £15.85 per hour, plus £50 per working day subsidy.
Contract basis: PAYE or Self‑Employed.
Benefits
- One on‑site meal per working shift.
- Lapland Shuttle bus from local train station to site.
- On‑site parking for staff (Manchester).
- Holiday paid in full at end of contract calculated at 12.07% of total hours worked.
- £50 subsidy per working day to help with travel costs.
Employment Eligibility
Applicants must be authorised to work in the United Kingdom without the need for visa sponsorship.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Lapland is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace that seeks to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We therefore encourage applications from all genders, races, religions, ages and sexual orientations, as well as parents, veterans, people living with disabilities, and any other groups that could bring diverse perspectives to our business.
WHAM Assistant - Manchester in London employer: LaplandUK
Lapland UK is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work culture that values teamwork and creativity. Located at the picturesque Capesthorne Hall in Manchester, employees enjoy unique benefits such as on-site meals, travel subsidies, and convenient shuttle services, all while contributing to a magical experience for visitors. With opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to inclusivity, Lapland UK fosters an environment where every team member can thrive and make a meaningful impact during the festive season.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land WHAM Assistant - Manchester in London
✨Get in Early: Embrace the Seasonal Rush
In hospitality, seasonal hiring can be a bit of a frenzy, so make sure you’re applying early. Keep an eye on when local businesses like cafés and restaurants ramp up for holiday seasons or summer rushes. We can help you stay ahead by tracking application windows—don’t miss out!
✨Join Local Hospitality Groups
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✨Show Your Face: Walk-Ins Matter
In hospitality, nothing beats a good ol' walk-in. Visit local establishments and introduce yourself. Bring along a flashy CV and maybe even drop a line about why you’re keen to work there. Sometimes just chatting with the manager can score you an interview on the spot!
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Look for platforms that specialise in seasonal positions in the hospitality sector. Websites dedicated to summer jobs or Festival employment can offer unique roles that align with your interests. Don't forget to apply through our website too—companies like LaplandUK are constantly looking for enthusiastic seasonal workers like you!
We think you need these skills to ace WHAM Assistant - Manchester in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality and food service game, your customer service skills are your bread and butter. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience you have in restaurants, cafés, or similar environments, emphasizing your ability to handle busy situations and provide excellent service.
Seasonal Availability is Key:Since this is a seasonal role, we're looking for candidates who are flexible with their availability. In your cover letter, mention specific times you’re available during the season and any previous seasonal positions you’ve held. This helps us see you as a perfect fit for this temporary gig!
Culinary Knowledge Can Set You Apart:If you have any culinary certifications or training, be sure to feature them prominently in your application. Knowing your way around a kitchen or having food safety certifications could give you an edge over other candidates when applying for a role at LaplandUK.
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How to prepare for a job interview at LaplandUK
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
With a seasonal role in hospitality-food-service, it’s super important to familiarise yourself with the menu. Be ready to chat about your favourite dishes, special ingredients, and any dietary considerations people might have. This shows you're passionate and prepared to provide excellent service right from the start!
✨Brush Up on Your Customer Service Skills
In hospitality, customer service can make or break the experience. Think of scenarios where you've gone the extra mile for a guest, or how you've handled challenges with a smile. Prepare a few stories that highlight your ability to connect with customers, solve problems, and create a welcoming atmosphere.
✨Flexibility is Key
Seasonal roles often require us to be flexible with our hours and responsibilities. During the interview, be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt. Highlighting your ability to jump into different roles, whether it’s serving or kitchen support, can really set you apart.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, especially in busy seasons. Prepare to share experiences where you collaborated with colleagues to create a seamless experience for guests. If you've got any examples where you helped to lift team morale during busy shifts, mention them! It’s all about showing that you can contribute positively to the work environment.
