Deputy Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup (My Neighbour Totoro)

About the Role

The [Employer hidden] Company is looking to appoint a Deputy Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup for its production of My Neighbour Totoro at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, in collaboration with NIPPON TV and IMPROBABLE. This position is offered initially as a fixed term contract until May 2027, commencing on 25 May 2026. The Deputy Head of Wigs, Hair, and Makeup is central to the effective running of the department, supporting the Head of Department and the Assistant in delivering the artistic and practical requirements of the production to a consistently high standard. The role helps ensure that all wigs, hair, and makeup elements are maintained, performance-ready, and delivered with accuracy and care throughout the run of the show. It also supports the smooth organisation of departmental operations, strong communication across the company, and a positive, safe and professional working environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head of Department and Assistant in delivering artistic and practical requirements.
• Ensure all wigs, hair, and makeup elements are maintained, performance-ready, and delivered with accuracy and care throughout the run.
• Support smooth organisation of departmental operations, strong communication, and a positive, safe and professional working environment.

Requirements

• Previous experience in a senior Wigs, Hair and Makeup role on a large-scale theatre production.
• Strong practical expertise in wig preparation, dressing, maintenance and repair.
• Practical working knowledge of multiple hair textures and styles.
• Comprehensive technical proficiency in precision haircutting, traditional barbering techniques, and hair colour applications.
• Strong theatrical makeup skills, with excellent attention to detail and consistency.
• A high level of attention to detail and ability to maintain consistency in performance.
• Good organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise effectively in a busy environment.
• The ability to work calmly under pressure and respond positively to changing demands.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues across departments.
• A practical understanding of health and safety responsibilities within a theatre environment.
• A professional, reliable and proactive approach to supporting the smooth running of the department and the wider production.

Additional Information

My Neighbour Totoro performs 8 shows a week, on a Tuesday to Sunday schedule, with matinees on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, London. The RSC strives for excellence, and values creativity, inclusivity, sustainability, collaboration, and accountability. 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. The [Employer hidden] Company is a registered charity (no. 212481).

Documents

Deputy WHAM MNT Role Profile.pdf (0.83 MB)

How to Apply

All applications should be made online using the RSC website. If you need any assistance when applying, please email [contact hidden]. The closing date for applications is midnight on Thursday 7 May 2026, and you must be available to interview in the week commencing 11 May 2026.