Festival 56 is offering three high school students and 2024 graduates an opportunity for paid apprenticeships at a local professional company in theater production. The program is sponsored through federal funds and a grant from the Illinois Arts Council. Applications should be received by 5 PM on May 1st.
Over 8 weeks, each high school student will be assigned to work in one or more of the following areas: Scenic Design (including properties and scenic art), Technical Direction (and scenic construction), Costume Design (including construction and wardrobe), Directing (including choreography and/or music direction), Lighting and Sound Design (including electrics and engineering), Production and Stage Management, and Public Relations (including marketing and audience services).
Apprentices will work approximately 15 hours per week at a wage of $14.00 an hour and will have the opportunity to enter into a mentorship with one of the company’s professional artists. Apprentices will also have the opportunity to volunteer additional time in one or more areas of theater production. Applicants must be available to work for an 8-week period between June 12, 2024, and August 6, 2024.
To apply, please submit a cover letter (including contact information) stating previous experience, goals relating to future studies or a career in the theatre arts at the college or professional level, and a personal artistic statement. Letters should be emailed to [email protected] with the subject, “Apprentice.” Following a review of the applicants, those moving on to the next level will be interviewed. One letter of recommendation will be required from a teacher or artistic mentor.
Those applying under the age of 16: The Illinois Child Labor Law (820 ILCS 205/1 et seq.) regulates the employment of minors under the age of 16 and requires all minors to have employment certificates. Should one of these minors be hired, the Princeton Theater Group will follow the procedures for teens under 16:
- A “letter of intent to hire” must be obtained from all prospective employers. The letter must outline hours worked.
- The teen and parent or guardian must bring this letter to an issuing officer at the minor’s school or school district to obtain the required work permit.
- The issuing officer will review the criteria and verify safety before issuing the work permit.
Visit our website: www.festival56.com for more information. Summer Youth Employment in the Arts directions will be under the Education/Learning Stage tab.
