Glimmerglass Festival Summer Apprenticeship Program 2025

The Glimmerglass Festival

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM 2025 

The Glimmerglass Festival is reinforcing the company’s decades-long history of mentoring and educating theatre professionals with the Glimmerglass Festival Apprenticeship Program.  With staff undergoing anti-bias training and education in creating more accessible, equitable, and inclusive work environments, the company offers hourly paid summer Apprenticeships in Artistic Administration, Company Administration, and Theater Production. Our Apprenticeship Program provides a unique combination of practical, work, and educational programs, each designed to further professional growth.
 

Our Apprentices join the program after gaining interest through practical experience or their academic studies. Our Apprenticeship Program is geared toward participants, ages 18 and over, who would like to continue to learn and grow in their chosen field. Apprentices work directly with noted professionals under the guidance of supervisors and staff from many of the top theaters, opera companies, and institutions in the nation. Apprentices are engaged for a period of 8 - 16 weeks, with some positions beginning in early May.
 

APPRENTICESHIP APPLICATION INFORMATION/INSTRUCTIONS:

Application information will be posted at www.glimmerglass.org starting on January 6, 2025. The application process will involve filling out an online Employment Application Form (EAF) and attaching one PDF file containing a one-page cover letter and a one-page resume with references. Some positions may require an additional portfolio attachment or link (preferred).
 

Cover letter

- One (1) page. Indicate earliest date available and latest departure date. Glimmerglass start dates are often more flexible than end dates- typically a week’s worth of flexibility can be given depending on the position. Applications with start and end dates significantly outside of the dates provided below will not be considered. 

Resume

- One (1) page. Include telephone number, e-mail address, education (post high school, if applicable), work and internship experience (with dates). Multiple single-page resumes are recommended when applying for multiple Apprenticeship positions, each detailing your experience for the desired Apprentice position you are applying for. These can be combined into your single PDF submission. 

References

- Provide contact information for three references. Indicate your relationship to each reference, their telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses. Applications listing “References upon request” will not be considered.

Portfolio

-Some positions (Costumes, Crafts, Design, Hair & Makeup, Paints, Photography, Props, Scenic Carpentry, or Technical Direction) may require examples of your previous work. Please include either a link to your digital portfolio/webpage or images with descriptions on additional pages at the end of your PDF submission. Online portfolio link is preferred.
 

For further information, email the Hiring Search Department at hiring@glimmerglass.org.  

No phone calls, please.
 

Apprentices are compensated at a rate of $15.50/hr and are eligible for overtime. Housing provided. 

The Apprenticeship Program is highly competitive; some positions are filled as early as the end of January. Early applications are encouraged. All positions in the Apprenticeship Program will be posted for two weeks prior to the start of the offer process and applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. 

ARTISTIC ADMINISTRATION 

Artistic Administration: 2 positions. Supervised by the Director of Artistic Administration and Artistic Operations Coordinator, apprentices will primarily assist in the clerical and operational duties supporting  our Guest Artists, Young Artist Program (YAP), and Youth and Local Chorus. These positions work collaboratively with staff, artists, visiting industry professionals, and parents/guardians.  Shared duties include: coordinating logistics for ancillary and off-site performances/events including the YAP Industry Auditions, liaising with industry professionals to book travel and process ticket requests, assisting with artistic planning, liaising with music staff, assisting the Director of Artistic Administration with artist relations duties, and managing wellness checks and backstage duty. Apprentices will be responsible for child wrangling and serve as the primary contact  during the youth opera. Successful candidates possess a sound sense of judgment, strong organizational skills, initiative, remain composed under pressure, and an ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. Strong editing skills and proficiency in Google and Microsoft Office suite are strongly recommended. Knowledge of opera or classical repertoire, and  previous experience working with children is a plus. Driver’s license with a clean driving record required. May 19 – August 20.

Music Library: 1 position. Primary duties include: marking of piano/vocal (P/V) scores and orchestral parts for changes to cuts, and string bowings; notating changes using both hand and computerized engraving techniques, helping maintain collection of circulating P/Vs, arias, excerpts and anthologies. Position works closely with music librarian, and orchestra personnel. Candidates should be able to read a full score, be familiar with marking string bowings, have exceptional attention to detail, possess excellent penmanship, and be able to work independently. Driver’s license with a clean driving record required. May 19 – August 20.

Music Operations: 2 positions. Supervised by the Music Operations Manager, orchestra operations apprentices are primarily responsible for the set-up and tear-down of rehearsal rooms and the orchestra pit for every orchestral service. Guided by the collective bargaining agreement between AFM Local 443 and Glimmerglass, apprentices are also responsible for the secure transportation of instruments and strict adherence to all written company policies and CBA work rules. Attendance at all orchestra rehearsals and performances is required. General administrative and run-out performance duties within the artistic department may also be assigned. A background in music and/or music ensemble logistics is preferred. These positions work closely with orchestra members, conductors, and the stage operations team. Successful candidates will be highly organized, reliable, and have strong interpersonal skills. These positions require heavy lifting (+50 lbs.) and manual labor on a nearly daily basis, but they also require meticulous care to protect Glimmerglass and orchestra-owned instrumental assets. Work is scheduled primarily on weekends and evenings in the summer season specifically catered to the orchestra schedule. Driver’s license with a clean driving record required. May 26– August 22.

COMPANY ADMINISTRATION

Box Office 2 positions. Assist with ticket sales, patron services, and preparation of income reports, as well as coordinating group activities. Successful candidates have excellent attention to detail, good organizational, communication and interpersonal skills, as well as computer literacy.  Customer service skills are desirable.  June 10 – August 20.

Communications 2 positions. Work directly with the Director of Communications on marketing, communications, and publication relations activities, including (but not limited to) the preparation and development of press materials, working with members of the media and general public, and supporting the Audience Services/Press Desk at all performances, brainstorming and drafting social media content, drafting e-commerce copy, and assisting in the Gift Shop. Excellent writing and proofreading skills, strong research skills, and a congenial public manner appreciated. Experience with Adobe Creative Suite, Google Suite, Canva, Marketing/PR Automation and Email Software, and POS systems is helpful but not required. Moves equipment up to 25lbs. Driver’s license with clean driving record preferred. June 3 - Aug 23.

Company Management: 5 positions. Assist department responsible for the housing, transportation, and other practical concerns of singers, directors, designers, and general personnel. This position will spend a majority of time in the field transporting staff and artists as well as responding to housing concerns and developments. Staggered scheduling and an on-call phone number will be essential in order to cover all day parts. Candidate will spend a significant amount of time in a stationary position at a desk or in a vehicle. Operates as part of a 9-person team, but will have many tasks that require independence. Will need to respond positively and tactfully to a variety of logistical arrangements. Problem-solving skills, flexibility, and quick decision making is desired. Driver’s license with a clean driving record required.  May 11 - August 25. 

Development 3 positions. Assist with the administration and execution of summer fundraising projects and events, and long-range projects, such as the annual fund campaign and, potentially, grant preparation. General development administration tasks will include prospect research, analysis of prospective donors and the subsequent one-on-one engagement of selected patrons. Interaction with patrons is a major component of this Apprenticeship, including face-to-face, written, and phone communication with donors. In addition to the overarching development tasks, each Apprentice will have one of three distinct, summer-long roles: 1) Operations, 2) Sponsorship Pairings, or 3) Events. Successful Apprentices have excellent verbal and written communication skills, are flexible in a fast-paced environment, and work successfully as an individual and as part of a team. A musical background is not required, but knowledge of and appreciation for the arts is preferable. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs.  Early June - late August.

Finance 1 position. Work with the Finance Manager to implement the policies and practices of financial management within a non-profit organization. Assist with accounts receivable and accounts payable.  Analyze and reconcile Credit Card accounts.  Work with Finance staff maintaining internal controls for point of sales systems. Work closely with our Box Office Department to balance and track revenue. Must be able to collect, evaluate, and interpret data, and be capable of maintaining records and documentation. Expertise in numbers and good math skills are very important. Some remote work is an option for the end of the apprenticeship. May 1 - August 27,  Additional Opportunity possible through September 30.

Front of House  1 position. Assist House Manager with the management of theater and secondary venues to ensure audience comfort and safety. Assist with soliciting, scheduling, and training volunteer ushers. Provide support to Box Office, Patron Services, Group Sales, and Events as needed. A successful candidate will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  This position has workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. Late May - late August.

Operations Management: 2 positions. Maintain, update, and digitally distribute the weekly event calendar. Assist with the planning and coordinating of daily activities, including scheduling, task assignments, and resource management. Coordinate catering services and rental equipment (tents, tables, chairs, linens). Oversee set-up and tear-down of event spaces. Provide oversight during events, resolving operational issues and addressing patron concerns. Manage Intermission Club events, ensuring smooth execution and guest satisfaction. Assist in Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion efforts and events. Contribute to “Front of House” activities, ensuring patron comfort and safety. Oversee on-site patron transport using golf carts. Assist with routine administrative duties, including filing, data entry, and scheduling. Weekends and evenings are required in accordance with the season production schedule. Qualifications include: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with a diverse range of individuals. Excellent computer literacy, proficient in standard software applications (e.g., Google Suite).  Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Flexibility and willingness to learn and adapt to new tasks. A driver's license with a clean record is a plus. June 3 – August 23.

PRODUCTION

Audio/Video Engineering 2 positions. Assist with installation, use and maintenance of in-house audio & video monitoring/playback systems, a large wired and wireless intercom system and a computer-controlled projection system for projected titles. Completing pre-show checklists, troubleshooting equipment, fulfilling assigned run-crew duties, and helping to facilitate company concerts, lectures, and additional programming will be part of the daily responsibilities of this position. Much of the work this position performs routinely is at height, on ladders, or in lifts; involves lifting equipment to elevated positions; and may require occasional use of power tools for custom projects. Experience with sound, video, intercom and computer systems desired; Previous experience with analog and digital sound systems, analog video, intercom, and QLab would be beneficial. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs or ladders. May 19 - August 24.

Costume Administration 1 position. Assist Production Management in facilitating costume department accounting and reconciling all purchases/shipping/returns, distributing information to the Costume Shops, processing occasional fitting photos, purchasing and distribution of Costume Shop/Craft Shop supplies, as well as assisting in the execution of Orientations, Seminars, and Crew Meals. Much of the work this position performs routinely involves lifting equipment, boxes, and costumes to elevated positions. A working knowledge of computers, google drive, and word/excel, some understanding of costume shop terminology, and experience in administrative organization are desired. Requires organizational, communication and interpersonal skills; Valid driver’s license with clean record required. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. May 13 - August 25.

Costume Crafts 2 positions. Assist with craft work including dyeing, distressing, jewelry construction and modification, leatherwork, stitching, painting, dying, labeling, shoe/boot modification, fabric and garment aging, and millinery/footwear construction and modification of costumes for four productions. Requires theatrical sewing skills and skill in one or more crafts areas. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. Portfolio required. May 19 - July 27 (1 position) or August 3 (1 position).

Costume Design 1 position. Assist Costume Design teams from fitting set-up to opening, this includes paperwork updates and design/shop communication. Assisting in the purchasing process from helping with sourcing, getting arrived items to fitting spaces, and working with the Shopper on returns/exchanges. Fittings assisted by note taking and processing of fitting photos. All these lead to assisting in the continual updates of our piece lists as they are the basis for other documentation. Requires attention to detail and the ability to work as part of a collaborative team. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. Portfolio required. May 19 - August 10.

Costume Stitcher 4 positions. Assist with construction and/or alteration of costumes by hand and with machine for four productions while working on a team within the Costume Shop structure. Requires sewing skills and costume/clothing construction experience. Portfolio required. May 19 - July 13 (2 positions) or July 20 (2 positions).

Dramaturgy/Titles 1 position. Assist Dramaturgy/Titles team with creating research materials to support current and future festival seasons; program supertitles for all shows; call titles for rehearsals and performances. Successful candidates will read music well; possess typing, proofreading and organizational skills; demonstrate excellent attention to detail and professionalism. Opera knowledge is a plus. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. June 2 - August 17.

Electrics 3 positions. Assist with installing, circuiting, and focusing 500+ unit plot; perform daily changeovers; run productions; and strike. Much of the work this position performs routinely is at height, on ladders, or in lifts; involves lifting equipment to elevated positions; and may require occasional use of power tools for custom projects. Requires thorough experience with stage electrics including intelligent lighting, networking, and set electrics. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs or ladders. This is a large crew and a team-oriented attitude is essential. May 12 – August 24.

Hair & Makeup 2 positions. Assist with daily maintenance of wigs; pre-performance application of make-up, wigs and hairstyling for singers; and backstage quick changes. Ventilating experience necessary, and a congenial and artist-oriented personality is essential. A successful candidate will have broad knowledge and experience working with all hair types and skin tones, ventilating, foundation building, and show running experience. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. Portfolio required. May 26 - Aug 20.

Lighting Supervision  1 position. Will work closely with the Lighting Supervisors and Lighting Director to document, archive, and maintain 2 of 4 operas in repertory. In addition, will act as the second assistant on two operas. Must be familiar with Vectorworks, Lightwright, Microsoft excel, and basic electrician knowledge. May 12 – August 17.

Production Administration 1 position. Assist Production Administration/Management and Production Department Managers with office routines, scheduling, interdepartmental communication, shopping, purchasing, reconciling, budget tracking, mail distribution, and item returns; provide staff support including safety program implementation, union contract execution, and production rental communication, as well as assisting in the execution of Orientations, Seminars, and Crew Meals. Requires organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills; basic knowledge of production procedures and terminology; computer literacy; and valid driver’s license with a clean driving record. Much of the work this position performs involves remaining in a stationary position during the shift; and involves moving boxes of supplies. Should feel comfortable working in a busy office setting. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. May 5 – August 24. 

Properties 1 position. Assist with the construction and procurement of props for mainstage productions and other events. Basic woodworking skills are required as well as skills in one or more of the following areas: sewing, soft goods, crafts, sculpting, painting or metalworking. No run crew. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. Portfolio required.  May 5 – July 27.

Properties Paint 1 position. Assist with the painting of props for mainstage productions and other events. May assist the scenic artists at times. Requires the ability to replicate scenic treatments through instruction from the Scenic Charge and/or references from designers. Some work this position performs is on ladders or in lifts; involves lifting equipment to elevated positions; and may require occasional use of power tools for custom projects. No run crew. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. Portfolio required.  May 5 – August 10.

Safety 1 position. Assist in maintaining an excellent company safety culture and safe working environment; assist the Safety Department in ensuring compliance with regulatory OSHA requirements; promote a safe work environment daily; conduct safety observation reports regularly; assist in Orientation set-up and execution; assist in outside training set-up and execution; will help to implement all Health and Wellness Compliance Policies as outlined by Glimmerglass Festival; collect and maintain required documents per company requirements; investigate, document, and respond to incidents; assist with compliance documentation; and assist in purchasing/tracking and restocking PPE, First Aid, and other equipment. Much of the work this position performs involves remaining in a stationary position during the shift; and involves moving boxes of supplies. Knowledge and experience within production and theatre operations are helpful. Requires organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills; basic knowledge of production procedures and terminology; computer literacy; and valid driver’s license with a clean driving record. Projects will be in coordination of all Festival Employees (400+), patrons who visit the campus, and will be a highly collaborative position. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. May 19 – August 24.

Scenic Carpentry 1 position. Assist carpentry with construction and modifications to scenery; initial installation of scenery; load-ins and some changeovers. No run crew. Requires the ability to read drawings, good stage carpentry skills in both wood and metal, and basic knowledge of single-purchase counterweight systems. MIG welding experience is required. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. May 5 - August 24. 

Scene Design 1 position. Assist scenic designers during the technical rehearsal process with notes, research and drafting. Also assist in prop or paint shops as needed. Requires attention to detail and the ability to work as part of a collaborative team. Photoshop skills are desirable. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. Portfolio required.  May 12 – August 10.

Scenic Art 2 positions. Assist with painting hard and soft scenery, prop painting and touch-ups. Much of the work this position performs routinely is at height, on ladders, or in lifts; involves moving equipment to elevated positions; and may involve occasional use of power tools for specific projects. A strong foundation in drawing, color mixing, and teamwork is required. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs or steps with uneven ground. No run crew. Portfolio required. May 12 – July 20 (1 position) or August 3 (1 position).

Stage Management 2 positions. Assist stage management team with prep and running rehearsals of four productions; run rehearsals and performances for ancillary shows and concerts as assigned. Requires organizational, communication and interpersonal skills, ability to read music, and previous stage management experience with a preference for those with an interest in opera. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. May 19 – August 17. 

Stage Operations 5 positions. Assist with the install of repertory scenery; run deck, rail and properties; perform daily scenery changeovers; install and maintain rehearsal scenery and properties; and strike scenery at the end of the season. Basic familiarity with stage procedures is ideal. The position is an excellent introduction to most aspects of production. This is a large crew and a team-oriented attitude is essential. May 5 – August 24.

Technical Direction 1 position. Assist Technical Director and ATDs with shop management, drafting, budgeting and technical rehearsal supervision. AUTOCAD experience required. 3D preferred. Knowledge of Microsoft office is required. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. May 5 - August 24.

Wardrobe 3 positions. Assist in maintaining large repertory costume inventory, dressing principals and chorus, and backstage quick changes. Apprentice’s also are given the opportunity to work in costume shop and/or crafts shop for the first weeks of the contract period and need basic theatrical sewing skills. This position has offices or workspaces that require the employee to climb flights of stairs. A congenial and artist-oriented personality is essential. June 9 - August 24.