Assistant Teaching Intern - Theater in a Box Camp

EDUCATION INTERNSHIP: ASSISTANT TEACHING – SUMMER 2026 – Part-time

Theater in a Box Camp - Summer 2026 (Theater Support Staff) -- $16/hour

Summer 2026 

Des Moines Performing Arts has an exciting short-term opportunity for current teachers or college students interested in art, literacy, and theater education to serve as an assistant instructor with our Theater in a Box camp for 12 days (about 2 and a half weeks) in June 2026. Come work with first through third graders as they create a story, characters, and sets for their box-sized theaters.
 

The Teaching Assistant Intern’s primary responsibilities include: 

• Assist the lead teaching artist in working with students on lessons in storytelling and creating character.
• Support students as they create stories, characters, and sets for their mini-theater boxes.
• Assist students in creating and editing short performances using iMovie or similar tools.
• Supervise students during breaks and transitions, keeping things fun and safe.
• Select and lead theater games and activities that spark creativity and teamwork.
• Prep materials for the next day and help prepare student performances.
• Create a safe and supportive environment for participating youth.

This position is ideal for students majoring in theater education, theater, or music education, art or elementary education and who have a passion for working with young people. 

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Art, literacy, or theater background and knowledge of storytelling, character development, and theater activities appropriate for grades 1-3
• High comfort-level with technology, specifically IMovie and video and basic editing skills
• Organization skills and the ability to keep self and others moving toward goals
• Ability to monitor the flow of energy in a classroom environment between focus and fun, on-task and creating.

This is a paid internship. This position will require 20-30 hours per week starting with training days in early June and camp sessions the week of June 15 and June 22, 2026. This position is a seasonal-based temporary position and will conclude on June 26, 2026. 

Pay - $16.00 per hour

Deadline to apply: February 20, 2026

Twelve-day commitment

Must be available 20-30 hours the weeks of camp, primarily between 8 AM and 2 PM.

Please submit your cover letter and resume via the online application at DMPA.org

Interviews scheduled in March and early April

Note:  A cover letter is REQUIRED.

If you are passionate about helping young students to explore and develop their ideas, join us for these two weeks of camp full of art, storytelling, and creativity. 

APPLY AT DMPA.org

QUESTIONS:  Contact Lynnae at LynnaeL@DMPA.org 

Des Moines Performing Arts’ Summer Camp internships offer excellent practical experience for college students with an interest in working with youth to develop their educational theater and production skills.