WHERE ARE YOU IN YOUR CAREER?
Entering college, university, graduate program or the professional workplace? No matter where you are, attaining the skills necessary to make it in theatre is no easy task. Taking advantage of every opportunity to develop yourself as a performer, director, designer, technician or administrator – as a theatre professional others will want to work with – in a creative environment is absolutely essential in the performing arts. An apprenticeship at Flat Rock Playhouse is exactly what you need to take your education in theatre and expand it into a career in theatre.
The Vagabond Players were founded in 1936 and from the inception of the Company, training theatre artists has been a vital part of the mission. Over the years more than 1,000 students have benefited form the challenging and rewarding experience of being an Apprentice on The Rock. Many continue to be a part of the Company and of the full time staff, 50% started their career with the Playhouse as Apprentices. The Company of Vagabond Players believes in growing our own and maintaining lasting relationships.
The First-Year Apprentice
New members to the Company audition/interview for a place in the program. Once accepted they join a Company of up to sixteen fellow Apprentices. First-Year Apprentices receive a weekly stipend of $50 along with room & board for the session.
- Audition for non-Equity roles in main-stage productions
- Perform at The Carl Sandburg National Historic Site located adjacent to the Playhouse
- Perform at Midnight Studio, the weekly in-house cabaret
- Perform in the annual summer fundraiser
- Develop a showcase performance
- Attend master classes taught by the Professional Company
- Earn points toward their Actors’ Equity Association membership (if desired)
- Receive college credit (if pre-approved through their school)
- Work in scenic, lighting, costume, and properties technical crews and PA for the SM
The Second-Year Apprentice
Upon completion of the first-year, an Apprentice may be invited back for a second session. Second-Year Apprentices enjoy all of the performing and learning opportunities but also assume a role of leadership in the Company. They serve as Big Brothers/Sisters to the First-Year Company and help shape the experience. A Second-Year Apprentice receives a weekly stipend and is provided with room and board.
The Company
If an Apprentice shows exceptional promise, they may be invited to be a member of the Fall Non-Equity Company which focuses on making the Company member a working professional. These Company members perform main-stage roles as well as contribute to artistic outreach programs of Flat Rock Playhouse. Company members are paid a salary and provided room and board.
