Wigs and Makeup Assistant Intern

Reports to:

Wigs and Makeup Designer / Supervisor

Summer

Work Schedule:

Tuesday-Sunday during Festival Season (May-August)

Salary Range: $800/week plus roundtrip airfare (or equivalent travel stipend) and shared accommodations in CCO historic properties.

Location:

Central City, CO with occasional work at CCO’s office in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Final date to receive applications:
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis through March 6, 2026 or until filled.

The Wigs and Makeup Assistant Intern will be working in the Wig Shop with the Resident Wig & Makeup Designer / Supervisor and two professional Wig/Makeup Assistants for several hours every day. Interns will be tasked based on the needs/designs for the season’s productions and the individual intern’s skill level and prior experience.

• Clean, ventilate, style, and maintain wigs and facial hair throughout the season.
• Wash and block wigs and set them into curlers as needed.
• Wash and block facial hair.
• Apply makeup to cast members as designated by supervisor during rehearsals and performances.
• Assist the Wig/Makeup Department backstage during performances.
• Ensure wigs and facial hair are properly stored and maintained in between rehearsals and shows.
• Keep wig rooms and work spaces clean and organized.
• Collaborate and interact with industry professionals in the cast, crew, and staff, and comply with the instruction of stage management as designated by location and duty.
• Regularly clean wig rooms and work spaces
• The person in this position moves across and around Central City’s mountain environment multiple times daily, including traversing steep hills, unpaved areas, and tight corners.

An ideal candidate will be an organized and detail-oriented individual who wants to excel in assisting with makeup and wig preparation for productions. They have a strong ability to follow instructions, work efficiently under pressure, and support the team in a fast-paced environment. With a basic understanding of makeup techniques and wig styling, the intern is adaptable and quick to assist with last-minute changes or adjustments.

Strong communication skills, reliability, and a professional attitude are essential, as well as the ability to maintain a clean and organized work area. A willingness to learn and be a friendly face are also key for success in this role.

• Familiarity with standard makeup application for stage productions, including some knowledge of stage lighting and how it affects makeup appearance.
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills with acute attention to detail.
• Ability to assist with wig preparation, styling, and care (e.g., cutting, curling, and maintaining wigs).
• Ability to think ahead and maintain self-driven initiative.
• Ability to keep the work area clean, organized, and stocked with necessary supplies, ensuring the team is always prepared for rehearsals and performances.
• Clear and effective communication with the production team and actors to understand and address their needs in a timely manner.
• Comfortable working in a collaborative setting and supporting a diverse team to ensure the success of each production.
• Prior experience in makeup application, wig styling, or assisting in theater productions is beneficial but not mandatory.
• A genuine passion for theater and an eagerness to learn about the intricacies of theatrical makeup and wig design.
• Ability to work long hours, particularly during rehearsal periods and live performances, while maintaining focus and energy.
• Comfortable taking direction from senior staff, such as makeup artists, wig designers, or directors, and executing tasks accurately.

For this role, Central City Opera can provide a fee of $800.00 per week for nine (9) weeks and two (2) days. Dates of work are May 31 through August 3, 2026. Exact dates can be flexible for the right candidate.

In addition, CCOHA will provide rent‑free housing accommodations and a prepaid, round‑trip air coach ticket, or its cash‑equivalent, for transportation from city of residence or engagement route and return to city of residence.

CCO is committed to creating and sustaining an inclusive and equitable work environment. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are core values, and we are currently working to expand our capacities in these areas with a company‑wide understanding that this is an ongoing process that must be embedded into the fabric of the organization. We encourage candidates who identify as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, otherwise‑abled, and other underrepresented identities to apply.

All applications will receive consideration for employment.