Costume Attendants

Select, fit, and take care of costumes for cast members, and aid entertainers. May assist with multiple costume changes during performances.

The occupation of "Costume Attendants" has an automation risk of 44.5%, closely mirroring its base risk of 45.2%. This moderate risk level arises because many aspects of a costume attendant’s job—such as managing inventory and assisting with costume changes—are logistical and procedural. Tasks like creating worksheets for dressing lists, show notes, or costume checks could be automated by software that streamlines the organization and record-keeping processes. Similarly, arranging costumes in order of use for performances and facilitating quick-changes are routines that could be assisted by robotics or smart organizational systems. Furthermore, some dressing assistance could potentially be semi-automated by wearable technology or robotic aids, although human interaction remains crucial in high-pressure, live performance environments. However, not all responsibilities of costume attendants are equally susceptible to automation, with several tasks rated as highly resistant. For instance, caring for non-clothing items such as flags, table skirts, or draperies requires delicate handling and an understanding of the materials, which is hard for machines to replicate without risking damage. Recommending vendors and monitoring their work is another complex task, as it involves judgment, negotiation, and maintaining professional relationships. Additionally, assigning lockers and maintaining various rooms used for costumes and related items involves interpersonal interaction, problem-solving, and a level of caretaking that currently lies beyond the scope of most automated systems. Key bottleneck skills protecting the occupation from automation include originality, which is rated at 3.0% and 3.1% in importance. Originality is vital when improvising solutions during backstage emergencies or creating efficient workflows amid the unpredictable backstage environment. Costume attendants often face situations that require creative thinking and speed, especially when show schedules are tight and unforeseen challenges arise. The ability to quickly resolve issues, adapt to changing needs, and innovate organizational systems is a trait that current AI and automation technologies lack. Consequently, while routine and repetitive aspects of the job are at risk of being automated, the unique combination of creativity, judgment, and interpersonal skills required in this role ensures that full automation remains unlikely in the near-term future.