Shakespeare Theatre of NJ Accepting Submissions

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is now accepting applications for its highly competitive 2007 Summer Professional Training Program designed for young adults ages 18 and up. The program, which includes the Acting Apprentice Company as well as the Intern Company, provides young artists with an invaluable opportunity to develop their skills within the auspices of a major professional regional theatre. The 2007 program runs from May 27 through August 13. The application deadline is May 4, 2007. The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is one of the nation's leading classic theatres and is located on the campus of Drew University in Madison. The company is New Jersey's only professional theatre dedicated to the Shakespeare canon and other classic masterworks. 
 
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey's resident director and director of education Brian B. Crowe, who himself took part in the Summer Professional Training Program over a decade ago, said, "Eleven years ago, I walked into The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey as an intern eager to learn and anxious to explore the classics. I had no idea how that summer would change my life and give focus to my career as a theatre artist," according to press notes. 
 
"With a long-standing and nationally recognized commitment to the development of young theatre artists, The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey nurtures each member of the training program, providing strong mentorship along with thoughtful and candid evaluation within a professional theatre arena. In addition, the program provides one-on-one instruction and interaction with faculty, the artistic director and the professional staff and company  members of the Theatre. Training program participants are involved in every phase of the Main Stage, Outdoor Stage and student-produced projects from concept to casting, rehearsals to performance, production to marketing,  and fundraising to public relations," state press materials.
 
"A time-honored and traditional system of theatrical training, the Apprentice Company provides college-age and graduate student with classroom training in acting, voice, movement, text analysis and more; valuable hands-on performance experience; and essential exposure to all aspects of professional theatre. While The Shakespeare Theatre cannot guarantee the casting of apprentices on the Main Stage, the size of productions often allows apprentices to be cast in small roles. Apprentices cast in Main Stage productions are eligible to receive Equity Membership Candidate points by enrolling in the AEA-EMC program. Apprentice Company members are also assigned crew assignments including running crew, carpentry, costumes, lighting, sound, props and administration. During the course of the summer, as part of the Late-Nite Series, apprentices present three scene-night presentations directed by Shakespeare Theatre faculty, directors and staff to an audience comprised of the entire company. There are also opportunities for apprentices to participate in intern directed Late-Night Projects. 

The Apprentice experience culminates in a fully produced abridged Shakespeare production in the theatre's black box presented for family and company members. 
 
The Intern Company is designed for early-career theatre professionals interested in non-acting areas. Interns work in one department throughout the summer under the direction of The Shakespeare Theatre's professional staff. Internships offer in-depth practical training and provide the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience at a professional level. Prior experience in the field of interest is necessary for most internships. Some universities and colleges offer professional training credits for internships when included in regular full-time course loads. Administrative internships include general management, company management, development/fundraising, marketing and education. Artistic internships include direction and artistic/casting. Production and design internships include lighting, props, scenic construction, design and painting, sound tech and design, stage management, production management and costume construction and design. 
 
Tuition for the Apprentice Company, including housing, is $2,475 for the eleven-week program. There is no tuition fee for the Internship Company. The majority of internships are unpaid; however a limited number of stipends are available in certain areas. Housing is available for interns for an additional cost."
 
For more information on the Summer Professional Training Program or to receive an application form, call 973-408-3806, email SPTP@ShakespeareNJ.org or visit www.ShakespeareTraining.org.