Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Wigs, Hair, and Makeup Team for My Neighbour Totoro at the Gillian Lynne Theatre.
- Company: Join the Royal Shakespeare Company, a renowned charity dedicated to theatre excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fixed-term contract until June 2026 with opportunities for creative expression.
- Why this job: Be part of a magical production and make a real impact on stage aesthetics.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing wigs, hair, and makeup for large theatre productions is essential.
- Other info: Applications close on 1 July 2025; we value diversity and sustainability in our workforce.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Royal Shakespeare Company are looking to appoint a Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup for its production of My Neighbour Totoro at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, in London. This position is offered as a fixed term contract until June 2026, commencing 14 July 2025.
As Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup you will manage the Wigs, Hair, and Makeup Team, facilitating the smooth running of the show from a Wigs, Hair, and Makeup perspective as well as ensuring that the show's wigs are well maintained and show-ready for the duration of the productions run.
To be suitable for this role, it is essential that you have the following skills and experience:
- Previous experience as a Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup for rehearsals, technical rehearsals and show running on a theatre performance with a large cast.
- Practical working knowledge of working with multiple hair textures.
- Hair cutting experience in a theatrical setting.
- Practical wigs maintenance experience.
- Theatrical makeup experience.
- Previous management responsibility of a multi-person Wigs, Hair, and Makeup team.
The closing date for applications is midnight on Tuesday 1 July 2025, and you must be available to interview that week. All applications should be made online using the RSC website. If you need any assistance when applying, please email jobs@rsc.org.uk.
We are committed to building a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all individuals. We believe that safeguarding children and adults is everyone's responsibility, and everybody working at the RSC has a duty to place safeguarding at the heart of their work. We welcome candidates who will support and advocate the RSC's environmental objectives continuing to improve our sustainability work and actions both on and off stage.
Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup (My Neighbour Totoro) employer: ROYAL SHAKESPEARE COMPANY
Contact Detail:
ROYAL SHAKESPEARE COMPANY Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup (My Neighbour Totoro)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the theatre industry, especially those who have worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company or similar productions. Attend industry events, workshops, or seminars to make connections that could lead to recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of My Neighbour Totoro and its unique aesthetic. Understanding the character designs and overall vision will help you demonstrate your suitability for the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous work in wigs, hair, and makeup, particularly in theatrical settings. Highlight any experience with large casts and diverse hair textures to align with the job requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends and techniques in wigs, hair, and makeup within the theatre industry. This knowledge can set you apart from other candidates and show your commitment to continuous learning.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup (My Neighbour Totoro)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the specific requirements and responsibilities of the Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in managing a team and working with various hair textures.
Showcase Your Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your previous roles in theatre, particularly any experience as a Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup. Include details about your management skills and practical knowledge in wigs maintenance and theatrical makeup.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your passion for theatre and commitment to the RSC's values, including diversity and sustainability. Make sure to connect your personal experiences to the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in the theatre industry.
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL SHAKESPEARE COMPANY
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous roles as Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup. Highlight specific productions you've worked on, focusing on your management of large casts and how you ensured everything ran smoothly during rehearsals and performances.
✨Demonstrate Technical Knowledge
Make sure to brush up on your practical knowledge of various hair textures and wigs maintenance. Be ready to explain your techniques for hair cutting in a theatrical context and how you approach makeup application for different characters.
✨Emphasise Team Management Skills
Since this role involves managing a team, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led a multi-person team in the past. Discuss your leadership style and how you motivate your team to achieve high standards.
✨Align with RSC's Values
Familiarise yourself with the Royal Shakespeare Company's commitment to diversity and sustainability. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to these values in your role, particularly in terms of safeguarding and environmental objectives.
