Wardrobe Manager?

Question:What exactly is it or what do they do and what are they responsible for? (broadway)

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: What exactly is it or what do they do and what are they responsible for? (broadway)

Wardrobe head/mistress is responsible for running the dress crew. They are the first people in the shop/dressing rooms, and the last one out.
They must delegate to the costume crew, help w/hair, makeup/costume/wigs. He/She decides who on the crew will be doing what quick changes backstage, and makes sure that all runs smoothly, not only for actors, but the costume shop as well. Typically laundry is done by someone else, other than t-shirts/underthings that are worn and washed w/each shows.

They must also make sure that each actor has each and every piece that the costume designer has designated for that character. Not to mention, making sure that all items are worn appropriately. They have access to the costume shop, where they can do small/sometimes large repairs that are necessary for the show to run smoothly.

Basically, during the run of the show, they are the costume designer's eyes/ears/hands. I have been in theatre for several years (although currently not working due to familial obligations) and was always wardrobe head. While it's not always the easiest job, there are definitely perks, just make sure you know what you're signing yourself up for, as far as time obligations go. Break a Leg!

They make minor repairs (ie sewing buttons, etc.) They collect washable costumes at the end of the night (or the week). They ensure all the actors have their costumes at the start of the show. They may be pressed to act as a dresser.

They are in charge of caring for the costumes during the run of the show. Making sure the actors are wearing the correct pieces. They decide what the other wardrobe members are in charge of (who does quick changes back stage who is in charge of which actors). Also what gets washed and what doesn't every night. They are also in charge of repairs on the costumes (if and when they get damaged). I hope that helps!