Polka Theatre in Wimbledon seeks a Wardrobe Manager (permanent, part-time)

This is the role for you, if you: Want to create exceptional theatre for young audiences.  Love working with a busy, proactive team.   Have significant experience in wardrobe management, and take a hands-on and collaborative approach.   This role is a permanent role on an annualised hours basis equivalent to part-time 0.7 FTE (3.5 days per

Polka produces between 5 and 8 new in-house productions each year across its two theatre spaces. Over half of these are co-productions and recent exciting partners have included Derby Theatre, Little Angel Theatre, Leeds Playhouse and Birmingham Rep. We are committed to having our own wardrobe and workshop, enabling us to build all our own productions with the detail that defines the quality of our work. The production team also facilitate various projects (including education activities, community and fundraising event), supporting the wider Polka team to make memorable experiences for young audiences.   

You will play an essential and highly valued role within a busy and ambitious Production Team, taking direct responsibility for all aspects of Polka’s wardrobe. You will use your significant levels of specialist knowledge and experience as wardrobe supervisor and maker for all Polka shows and co-productions, bringing a positive, problem-solving approach to create work of the highest standards.   

Salary: £34,000 FTE per year pro rata (plus optional overtime taking it up to £35,308 per year pro rata) depending on experience – based on 3.5 days per week this would be £24,715 per year including overtime.  

Hours: 3.5 days per week (24.5 hours per week excluding a lunch break), on an annualised hours contract. You will need to work some additional hours, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays (we operate a Time Off In Lieu, ‘TOIL’ system). There is a maximum of 10 days overtime available.  

Annualised hours mean that you will work intensively during some periods (such as in the run up to production openings or events) and then work less during quieter periods, depending on the operational schedule of the theatre’s work. This requires the post-holder to have a flexible approach and good personal organisation. You will be expected to maintain timesheet records in liaison with your line manager to ensure careful management of these hours which equates to 1,274 hours per year.  

Polka’s commitment as an equal opportunities employer means we are keen to encourage applications from people from the Global Majority, people across the gender spectrum and people who self-identify as disabled, who are underrepresented in our sector. 

Polka is funded by Arts Council England, London, registered charity number 256979. 

For a Recruitment Pack with more information about who we are and what we’re looking for in this role plus how to apply please visit our website. https://polkatheatre.com/jobs/ 

Deadline for applications 9am on Monday 12th January 2026 

Interviews w/c 19th January 2026 

Ideal start date March 2026 

Specific location

Salaried

12/01/2026