Are you interested in working behind the scenes of New York’s biggest theater productions but not sure how to get involved? A great way for a young backstage creative who wants to be a stage manager, director, set designer, etc. to get introductory experience in the administrative field is through a theater internship. While competition for such positions across casting and creative departments run steep, there are a few first steps interested individuals can take to ensure they are putting their best foot forward.
READ: “1 Way Theater Internships Can Pay Off”
A fantastic internship program for young New York City-based creatives can be found at Manhattan Theatre Club, which fittingly enough is soon taking applications for its winter and spring session. The deadline for applicants to be considered is Friday, Nov. 11. In addition to the bonuses of excellent professional experinece, hired interns are paid $315 per week. There are also evening and weekend shift options available—all while learning from some of the area’s best theater-makers in this intensive, hands-on real-world educational program.
In order to be considered for these intern roles, interested parties must first download and fill out MTC’s intern application form, then write a cover letter indicating his/her three areas of interest (there are administrative options across business, creative, literary, marketing, and more), send in an up-to-date résumé, and provide one letter of recommendation from an employer or professor.
READ: “How to Become a Stage Manager”
Handily, MTC produced a trilogy of informative videos titled “Stand Out: Getting an Internship in Arts Administration” earlier this year that detail quick tips and tricks on writing your résumé, writing your cover letter, and nailing your interview. We’ve rounded up the major takeaways from each video below.
HOW TO WRITE YOUR RÉSUMÉ
- Your résumé should be skills-based, highlighting experiences of relevance rather than listing your credentials in chronological order.
- Include a bullet point list outlining each piece prior job or position’s responsibilities.
- List where and when you went to school, and be sure to include any leadership roles you held while studying.
HOW TO WRITE YOUR COVER LETTER
- Your letter should stick to a structure of three paragraphs: one stating who you are and what position you are applying for, one saying specifically why you’re interested in the company, and one expanding on your résumé to highlight past applicable experience.
- Pay close attention to each specific application’s requirements! A slip-up on directions could quickly lose you the internship opportunity.
HOW TO NAIL YOUR INTERVIEW
- Research the position and the company’s history before the interview.
- Just like an audition, you should plan what you’re going to wear to the interview. Business casual attire is usually appropriate.
- Practice your answers to basic interview questions like, “Why are you interested in this position?” Speak confidently and smoothly about not only why you’re interested, but why you’re the right candidate for the role.
Want to act on the stage? Check out our theater audition listings! And for acting advice, visit Backstage’s YouTube channel!