We're seeking committed, reliable and practical people to join us as Volunteer Garment Dressers for the 2026 season.

We invite people of all backgrounds and experience levels to be part of the magic backstage and help bring the World of WearableArt Show to life. As a Volunteer Garment Dresser, you will play a vital role in supporting our Models and Performers, assisting them into extraordinary works of wearable art during rehearsals and live performances. Our Dressers are highly valued members of the WOW team, and many return year after year to be part of this unique and rewarding experience.

Volunteering in this role is a significant commitment alongside your regular responsibilities. It will involve a schedule of evenings and weekends throughout the rehearsal and show period. You’re welcome to register your interest now, and more detailed information about the role and schedule will be provided when we begin recruiting Dressers (approximately May/June). At that stage, you’ll need to ensure you’re available for all required dates in the confirmed schedule.

To be considered for a Volunteer Garment Dresser role, you will need to be:

18 years old or over
Practical with hands-on work
Able to remain calm under pressure
Able to work both independently and collaboratively within a team
Reliable and committed to being available for a range of dates (weekday evenings and weekends) across the rehearsal and show period dates: 30th July - 4th October
Exact dates required will be shared during the recruitment process in May/June

Additionally, we would love it if you:

Have previous experience within the performing arts, either on stage or behind the scenes
Love art, performance, and all things creative
Have strong communication skills, particularly under pressure
Are comfortable working in a dark, fast paced, and sometimes loud environment

Please note that this opportunity is not open to Designers entered into this year’s competition.

If this sounds like you, or you have any questions, we would be delighted to hear from you! Please send an email to dressers@worldofwearableart.com with your contact details, relevant skills and experience, and a brief note about why you would love to be part of the WOW Dressing team.

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Audition FAQ

What are you looking for in a model/performer?

We primarily seek models based in Wellington/Te Whanganui-a-Tara; however, applications from outside the region are welcome, provided applicants can relocate at their own expense
You need to be 15 years or older (as at 1 August 2026)
Minimum height: at this stage there is no minimum height. Height requirements will be determined by garment entries selected as finalists to appear in the show; specifics on height will not become available until closer to fittings.
You must be able to commit to all rehearsals and shows
Be confident performing in front of large groups of people and cameras
Be able to take instructions from choreographers and directors
Dance, performing and or modelling experience is an advantage, but not essential
Be able to confidently walk and move in high heels

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What should I wear in the photo/video?

Please wear fitted clothing. Make-up is optional.

If selected as a model/performer, will I be paid?

Yes, this is a paid role.

If selected as a model/performer, how much time am I committing to?

Rehearsals start early August and continue through until the show opens mid-September. The show season runs from 16 September - 4 October 2026. 100% commitment to all rehearsals and shows is essential.
There is a pre-show historic section and six competition sections in the show. Each section is rehearsed on a different day, and you are only called for the sections you are cast in. Most models/performers are required to rehearse 3-4 evenings and 1-2 weekend days. All models/performers must be available for all rehearsal days and be able to accommodate changes in the rehearsal schedule.
Rehearsals generally run Monday to Thursday evenings 5.45pm - 10.30pm, plus Saturday and Sunday 10am – 6pm

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Is there a dancer, circus artist or musician audition?

All performer submission opportunities are listed here.

Are you looking for child performers?

Not at this stage. More information will be provided if submissions are wanted.

When will I know if my submission has been successful?

WOW will reply to all submissions via email by 1 June 2026 and successful applicants will be invited to attend an in-person audition in July 2026
In the July audition we will select a smaller group to attend the garment fittings. It is likely that all models who attend the fittings will be allocated garments, but we cannot guarantee this.

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