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Job description

Wigs, Hair and Make Up Assistant (Grade 4) - Fixed Term Contract (1778)

Are you passionate about theatre and skilled in creating and maintaining wigs, hair and make-up looks to a high professional standard? Could you confidently support live performances, handling quick changes and working under pressure to deliver seamless results? Do you enjoy collaborating as part of a creative team while also taking initiative in a fast-paced production environment? Are you immediately available to start a short, fixed term contract in Stratford-upon-Avon?

We are looking for a Wigs, Hair and Make-Up Assistant to provide high-quality support to the Wig & Make-Up team, ensuring the effective delivery and maintenance of wigs, hair and make-up on The Mad King. You must be available to start on 22 June and committed in the role until 5 September 2026.

Reporting to the Head of Wigs & Make-Up, key areas of responsibility include (please see the Role Profile for the comprehensive list):

• Supporting the production, maintenance and preparation of wigs, hairpieces and make-up to the highest standards
• Dressing wigs and applying make-up for performers pre-show and during performances as required
• Working closely with senior team members to realise and maintain the designer's vision throughout rehearsals and performances
• Learning and executing all wig and make-up changes accurately for assigned productions
• Maintaining clear and accurate documentation, including show plots, cue sheets and running notes
• Ensuring all work is completed efficiently within production timeframes and health & safety guidelines

To be suitable for this role, it is essential that you have the following:

• Proven skills in hairdressing, including textured hair, wig making, and make-up (with relevant qualification such as City & Guilds or equivalent)
• Strong knowledge of wigs, hairdressing, cutting and make-up techniques, including period styling
• Experience in wig dressing, preparation and maintenance within a production environment
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a fast-paced team
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a friendly, proactive approach
• Understanding of Health & Safety practices within a technical theatre or similar environment

This is a full-time, fixed-term position based in Stratford-upon-Avon.

You will be working 44 hours per week, Monday to Saturday with regular evening and weekend work. Flexibility is essential to meet the demands of a live production environment.

Application Process

All applications should be made online using the RSC website. If you need any assistance when applying, please email jobs@rsc.org.uk

The interviews will be online from 17 June.

About the RSC

The RSC strives for excellence and values creativity, inclusivity, sustainability, collaboration, and accountability.

We can offer great benefits and aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment which is happy, healthy and safe. We place great importance upon developing a diverse, highly motivated and energised workforce to help achieve our priorities. We put our values at the heart of everything we do.

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.

The Royal Shakespeare Company (no. 212481) is a registered charity.

• Artistic/Executive:Artistic
• Position Type:Fixed term (Full Time)
• Closing Date:16 June 2026
• Salary:£45,004.96 pro rata for the duration of the contract