Quick Rigging

Term from Costume Design industry explained for recruiters

Quick Rigging refers to a method costume designers and dressers use to modify garments for fast costume changes during live performances or film shoots. It involves adding special fasteners, like snaps, velcro, or magnetic closures, to replace traditional closures like buttons or zippers. This technique is essential in theater and film productions where performers need to change costumes quickly between scenes. Think of it as creating "emergency exit doors" in clothing that allow for speedy removal and putting on of costumes while maintaining the appearance of traditional closures.

Examples in Resumes

Designed Quick Rigging solutions for 15+ costume changes in Broadway musical production

Implemented Quick Rig systems for complex period costumes in regional theater

Trained junior costume designers in Quick Rigging techniques for rapid costume changes

Typical job title: "Costume Designers"

Also try searching for:

Wardrobe Supervisor Costume Technician Theatrical Costume Designer Film Costume Designer Wardrobe Master Costume Shop Manager Quick Change Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach quick rigging a complex period costume for a 30-second change?

Expected Answer: A senior designer should discuss assessing the costume's structure, planning strategic placement of quick-release closures, maintaining historical appearance, and ensuring durability for repeated use while considering performer comfort and movement.

Q: How do you train a wardrobe team in quick rigging techniques?

Expected Answer: Should explain creating standardized procedures, demonstrating various fastening methods, teaching safety protocols, and mentoring team members in problem-solving for different costume challenges.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when choosing quick rigging materials?

Expected Answer: Should discuss durability of different fasteners, noise considerations for stage performances, costume weight, fabric type compatibility, and budget constraints.

Q: How do you document quick rigging specifications for a production?

Expected Answer: Should explain creating detailed diagrams, maintaining records of modifications, communicating with dressers, and developing maintenance schedules for quick-change elements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic types of fasteners used in quick rigging?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list and describe common fasteners like snap tape, velcro, magnets, and hooks, and explain their basic applications in costume changes.

Q: What safety considerations are important in quick rigging?

Expected Answer: Should discuss checking for sharp edges, ensuring secure closures, testing durability, and maintaining clear paths for quick changes.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic sewing and alteration techniques
  • Knowledge of common quick-change fasteners
  • Understanding of costume maintenance
  • Basic documentation of costume modifications

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex quick change solutions
  • Team coordination during performances
  • Budget management for materials
  • Advanced fastening techniques

Senior (5+ years)

  • Design of complex quick-change systems
  • Training and team management
  • Production-wide costume planning
  • Innovation in rigging techniques

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with costume alterations
  • Lack of understanding of performance timing needs
  • Poor communication with wardrobe team members
  • No experience with different types of fastening systems