2019/2020 Apprenticeships and Fellowships

Steppenwolf Theatre’s Professional Leadership Programs offer opportunities for students, graduates, and early-career professionals to experience the inner-workings of a professional theatre from every angle. Each of our programs includes a uniquely hands-on experience coupled with mentorship and professional development. Participants should expect:

·        Formalized and comprehensive training in arts administration or production

·        Focus on professional development and networking

·        Connections to peers, mentors, and industry professionals

·        Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion training

·        Independent and collective learning projects

·        Hands-on experience for future career opportunities

·        Free tickets to Steppenwolf programming

·        Ability to witness firsthand how a world-class theatre operates

The Apprenticeship Program (September 3, 2019 – May 29, 2020) is a professional training program for early-career arts administrators and theatre production practitioners. Participants are given practical learning experiences and independent and collective projects, all while working as a part of a team with Steppenwolf's staff. Apprentices also participate in monthly day long seminars focused around professional development, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, and career advancement.

2019/2020 Apprenticeships are available in the following departments:

•        Artistic

•        Costume Shop

•        Development/Fundraising

•        Education

•        Electrics

•        Literary

•        LookOut Producing

•        Marketing

•        Production Management

•        Properties

•        Publicity

•        Scenic Art

•        Scenic Carpentry

•        Sound

•        Stage Management

•        Theatre Management

•        Wardrobe

Compensation: Apprentices are paid minimum wage ($13/hr as of July 1st, 2019) for 28 or 40 hours per week, depending on department. They are also eligible for Steppenwolf’s part-time dental plan, paid sick time, as well as vision insurance and a pre-tax Chicago Transit Authority card.

The Fellowship Program (September 3, 2019 – May 29, 2020) is a professional development program for early-career people of color interested in working in theatre. Fellows will hold an apprenticeship in their department of interest while being given additional paid professional development opportunities both in and out of Steppenwolf Theatre. Fellows should be individuals with clear professional goals and an interest in the continued development of the theatre industry. Through hands-on experience, externship opportunities, mentorship, and career-guidance, Fellows are given the tools to become insightful new voices in the field.

Compensation: Fellows will be paid minimum wage ($13/hr as of July 1st, 2019) for 28 or 40 hours per week of Apprenticeship work, depending on department. Fellows will also receive paid hours specifically focused around professional development opportunities both in and out of Steppenwolf Theatre. Fellows will receive a modest monthly housing and/or transportation stipend to help defray their cost of living.

For more information on the Professional Leadership Programs or to apply online, please visit www.steppenwolf.org