Guthrie Theater

Purpose

The Stage Management internship at the Guthrie will provide a training ground for students and young stage managers that are seeking exposure and hands on experience in a professional theater.

Prerequisites

The primary prerequisite for an internship candidate is the desire to learn what is expected of a professional stage manager and how to perform those duties well. Intern candidates must have substantial previous stage management experience with a college, community, or professional theater.

What to Expect

Internships have no formal academic structure and instruction does not take place in a traditional educational setting. One or two interns are assigned to each production and are expected to attend all rehearsals of that show through dress rehearsals. The stage manager and assistant stage manager assign responsibilities to the interns based on ability and willingness. As the rehearsals progress, the intern becomes an integral member of the stage management team. Through the closeness of the team working relationship, the interns learn the methods and accumulated experience of each stage manager and assistant stage manager. A concerted effort is made to afford the interns experience with more than one stage manager on the Guthrie staff. Most stage management internships do not include backstage work once the show has opened.

Time Commitment

Since the production schedule is intense and very strenuous, a strong commitment to a career in theater is necessary. The stage management schedule is based on a six-day work week. Rehearsals run from 11a.m. to noon to 10p.m. with a dinner break. Interns may work hours on either end of this schedule to do preparatory work. Intern applicants should be aware that Actor's Equity rules preclude active intern participation in some stage management functions, such as calling shows, and some other rehearsal and performance duties; also, the internship does not count toward Equity membership.