2023 GLIMMERGLASS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM (Summer Seasonal) - The Glimmerglass Festival

2023 GLIMMERGLASS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

Graciously supported by Denise Littlefield Sobel

The Glimmerglass Festival is reinforcing the company’s decades-long history of mentoring and educating theater professionals with the Glimmerglass Festival Apprenticeship Program. With staff undergoing anti-bias training and education in creating more accessible, equitable and inclusive work environments, the company offers hourly paid summer Apprenticeships in Administration, Artistic Administration and Theater Production. Our Apprenticeship Program provides a unique combination of practical, work, and educational programs, each designed to further professional growth.



Our Apprentices join the program after gaining interest through practical experience or their academic studies. Our Apprenticeship Program is geared toward participants, ages 18 and over, who would like to continue to learn and grow in their chosen field. Apprentices work directly with noted professionals under the guidance of supervisors and staff from many of the top theaters, opera companies, and institutions in the nation. Apprentices are engaged for a period of 7 – 18 weeks, with some positions beginning as early as April.







PROGRAM MISSION

To provide experience and knowledge to early career professionals and students who seek to further their professional growth through practical training, personal mentorship, and a range of workshops and seminars across multiple disciplines.







PROGRAM GOALS

Goal 1: Train competent and creative professionals.

Apprentices receive training in industry best practices and current technologies in areas of their interest within the performing arts.



Goal 2: Provide mentorship and evaluate growth.

Apprentices work alongside professional staff and artists from around the world, as well as work with Supervisors to establish goals and review progress throughout the season.



Goal 3: Deliver a broad range of educational programs.

Apprentices participate in seminars, workshops, and resume & portfolio reviews with industry professionals.



Goal 4: Foster equity and access to the Apprenticeship Program

Recruitment and outreach connections are expanded every year to maximize accessibility and visibility for participation in the program while also reviewing the applicant’s hiring process to ensure that each candidate is evaluated equitably and (should they be hired) compensated fairly.







PROGRAM METHODOLOGY AND CURRICULUM

The Glimmerglass Festival Apprenticeship Program provides a unique combination of practical experience and educational programs, each designed to further professional and personal growth. Each Apprenticeship offers a well-rounded experience including structured training sessions, curated seminars, and frequent opportunities to learn and work alongside seasoned professionals in formal and informal settings.







TRAINING/SEMINARS

Training Sessions include but are not limited to: (required by department/role)



Emergency Procedures

Back Safety

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Standard and Oversized Vehicle Trainings

Lifts and Ladders

Spray Booth Training; Lockout/Tagout

Secondary Container

Tool Checkout

Rigging Walkthrough

CPR/First Aid

Active Shooter Awareness

Fire Extinguisher Training

Respirator Fit Testing



2022 Glimmerglass Apprentice Seminar Series



Introduction to CNC Routing

Hacking the Nervous System

Getting & Giving Useful Feedback

Design Seminar for Carmen

Design to Production Forum

Design Seminar for The Sound of Music

Design Seminar for Tenor Overboard

Hazardous Materials in the Performing Arts

Thistle Hill Weavers Tour

Color Theory in Practice

Design Seminar for Taking Up Serpents/Holy Ground

Opera America Making Connections & Finance as a Theatre Professional

Creating a Design Mood/Research Board

Hand Sewing Skills

Costume Design with Van Broughton Ramsey

Leadership in the Performing Arts

Wightman’s Lumber Mill Tour

Welding Theory

Welding Practice

JR Clancy & Wenger Tour

Resume/Portfolio Workshop with OA

Lighting Design with Kevin Adams







PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION

The Program is advertised at vocational institutions, academic institutions, in industry publications, and at professional and collegiate conferences attended by interested parties. The application process is comprised of an online application, where candidates choose up to three Apprenticeships in order of preference and submit required materials such as portfolios, writing samples, and references. Applications are reviewed directly by the Apprentice mentors/supervisors for interview.



Apprenticeships are competitive, and are awarded based on the candidate’s:

Demonstrated interest and/or applicable experience

Academic achievement, development of technical skills, and/or personal merit

Potential and desire to pursue a professional career in the chosen field



Mentor Responsibilities:

Work with Apprentices to set goals for the term of the apprenticeship. Use the evaluation form and instruction sheet for pre-season, mid-season, and post-season evaluations.

Supervise Apprentices in day-to-day work development and operations.

Ensure an appropriate mix of practical experience and educational opportunities.

Administer any documentation or program criteria required by the Apprentice’s academic institution, if applicable.







APPRENTICES ARE COMPENSATED AT A RATE OF $14.20/HR, ARE ELIGIBLE FOR OVERTIME, AND ARE PROVIDED HOUSING.

The Apprenticeship Program is highly competitive; some positions are filled as early as the end of January. Early applications are encouraged. All positions in the Apprenticeship Program will be posted for two weeks prior to the start of the offer process and applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.



For further information, email the Hiring Search Department at hiring@glimmerglass.org.



No phone calls, please.



ADMINISTRATION

Box Office 2 positions. Assist with ticket sales, patron services, and preparation of income reports, as well as coordinating group activities. Successful candidates have excellent attention to detail, good organizational, communication and interpersonal skills, as well as computer literacy. Customer service skills are desirable. June 1 – August 20.



Communications 2 positions. Work directly with the Director of Communications on Content Marketing and Public Relations. They assist with the preparation and development of press materials, work with members of the media and general public, and support the Audience Services/Press Desk at all performances. Brainstorm and draft social media content with the company voice, draft e-commerce copy and assist in the gift shop. Excellent writing and proofreading skills, strong research skills, and a congenial public manner appreciated. Experience with Adobe Creative Suite, Google Suite, and POS systems is helpful but not required. Moves equipment up to 25lbs. Driver’s license with clean driving record preferred. May 23 – August 28.



Company Management: 3 positions. Assist department responsible for the housing, transportation, and other practical concerns of singers, directors, designers and general personnel, including on-campus transportation of patrons. Operates as part of a 9-person team, but will have many tasks that require independence. Will need to respond positively and tactfully to a variety of logistical arrangements. Problem solving skills, flexibility, and quick decision making is desired. Driver’s license with a clean driving record required. Early May – Late August.



Development 3 positions. Assist with the administration and execution of summer fundraising projects and events, including: prospect research, analysis of prospective donors and the subsequent one-on-one engagement of selected patrons. Event planning, execution, and follow-up are major components of this Apprenticeship, including prospect identification, invitation tracking, set-up and logistics, and face-to-face, written, and phone communication with donors. Provide assistance with tickets and trip logistics for donors, and help with general development administration and long-range projects, such as the annual fund campaign and grant preparation. Successful Apprentices have excellent verbal and written communication skills, are flexible in a fast-paced environment, and work successfully as an individual and as part of a team. A musical background is not required, but knowledge of and appreciation for the arts is preferable. Early May – late August.



Events 2 position. Maintain, update, and digitally disperse the weekly event calendar within the company; Coordinate catering services and rental equipment (i.e., tents, tables, chairs, linens); Responsible for set up/tear down of event spaces; Provide oversight of events to resolve operational issues and/or patron concerns; Oversee Intermission Club events; Assist as necessary with food and beverage concession sales; Provide support for Operations Manager and Production Manager. Requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills; attention to detail; and computer literacy. May 22 – August 27.



Finance 1 position. Work with the Finance Manager to implement the policies and practices of financial management within a non-profit organization. Assist with accounts receivable and accounts payable. Analyze and reconcile Credit Card accounts. Work with Finance staff maintaining internal controls for point of sales systems. Work closely with our Box Office Department to balance and track revenue. Must be able to collect, evaluate, and interpret data, and be capable of maintaining records and documentation. Expertise in numbers and good math skills very important. Some remote work is an option for the end of the apprenticeship. May1-August 27, Additional Opportunity possible through September 30.



Front of House 1 position. Assist House Manager with management of theater and secondary venues to ensure audience comfort and safety. Assist with soliciting, scheduling and training volunteer ushers. Provide support to Box Office, Patron Services, Group Sales, and Events as needed. A successful candidate will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Late May – late August.



Information Technologies 1 position. Assist with the install, update and support of Windows/Apple software and hardware; function as Help Desk support, respond to end-user requests via phone, in person and electronically; track changes and support calls; map network drives and printers, monitor systems and network status; run preventative maintenance. Knowledge of MS Office 2010, as well as Windows and Mac OS are desirable. There is occasional local travel between remote offices and properties; driver’s license with a clean driving record required. Late May – late August.



Operations 1 position. Provide direct support to the Operations Manager for the effective management of the venue and associated facilities; Assist as necessary with routine office administrative duties; Assist with ‘Front of House’ activities that assure patron comfort and safety; Oversee on-site patron transport (golf cart transport); Provide support to Executive Director as needed. Requires good organizational skills; strong verbal communication skills; ability to use Google Workspace apps; and resourceful approach to problem solving. May 22 – August 27.



Photography 1 position. Working and learning under the company photographer within the Communications Department, help documents the many facets of the Festival, photographing everything from mainstage performances, rehearsals and coachings, to events and community endeavors. Maintain photo files and occasionally assist company videographer with second shooting and equipment set-up and breakdown. Successful candidates are familiar with photographing action in a variety of lighting situations. Familiarity with external flash is helpful but not required. Independent work-ethic, strong communication skills and a high degree of professionalism desired; must possess a valid driver’s license with clean driving record. Portfolio required. Early June – August 26.







ARTISTIC ADMINISTRATION

Artistic Administration: 2 positions. Supervised by the Director of Artistic Administration and Artistic Operations Coordinator, apprentices will primarily assist in the clerical and operational duties supporting our Guest Artists, Young Artist Program (YAP), and Youth and Local Chorus. These positions work collaboratively with staff, artists, visiting industry professionals, and parents/guardians. Shared duties include: coordinating logistics for ancillary and off-site performances/events including the YAP Industry Auditions, liaising with industry professionals to book travel and process ticket requests, assisting with artistic planning, liaising with music staff, assisting the Director of Artistic Administration with artist relations duties, and managing wellness checks and backstage duty. Apprentices will be responsible for child wrangling and serve as the primary contact during the youth opera. Successful candidates possess a sound sense of judgment, strong organizational skills, initiative, remain composed under pressure, and an ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. Strong editing skills and proficiency in Google and Microsoft Office suite are strongly recommended. Knowledge of opera or classical repertoire, and previous experience working with children is a plus. Driver’s license with a clean driving record required. May 15 – August 22.



Music Library: 1 position. Primary duties include: marking of piano/vocal (P/V) scores and orchestral parts for changes to cuts, and string bowings; notating changes using both hand and computerized engraving techniques, helping maintain a collection of circulating P/Vs, arias, excerpts and anthologies. The position works closely with music librarian, and orchestra personnel. Candidates should be able to read a full score, be familiar with marking string bowings, have exceptional attention to detail, possess excellent penmanship, and be able to work independently. Driver’s license with a clean driving record required. May 17 – August 22.



Music Operations: 2 positions. Supervised by the Music Operations Manager, orchestra operations apprentices are primarily responsible for the set-up and tear-down of rehearsal rooms and the orchestra pit for every orchestral service. Guided by the collective bargaining agreement between AFM Local 443 and Glimmerglass, apprentices are also responsible for the secure transportation of instruments and strict adherence to all written company policies and CBA work rules. Attendance at all orchestra rehearsals and performances is required. General administrative and run-out performance duties within the artistic department may also be assigned. A background in music and/or music ensemble logistics is preferred. These positions work closely with orchestra members, conductors, and the stage operations team. Successful candidates will be highly organized, reliable, and have strong interpersonal skills. These positions require heavy lifting (+50 lbs.) and manual labor on a nearly daily basis, but they also require meticulous care to protect Glimmerglass and orchestra-owned instrumental assets. Work is scheduled primarily on weekends and evenings in the summer season specifically catered to the orchestra schedule. Driver’s license with a clean driving record required. May 17– August 25.



PRODUCTION

Audio/Video Engineering 2 positions. Assist with installation, use and maintenance of in-house audio & video monitoring/playback systems, a large wired and wireless intercom system and a computer-controlled projection system for projected titles. Completing pre-show checklists, troubleshooting equipment, fulfilling assigned run-crew duties, and helping to facilitate company concerts, lectures, and additional programming will be part of the daily responsibilities of this position. Experience with sound, video, intercom and computer systems desired; Previous experience with analog and digital sound systems, analog video, intercom, and QLab would be beneficial. May 22 – August 27.



Costume Administration 1 position. Assist Production Management in facilitating costume department accounting and reconciling all purchases/shipping/returns, distributing information to the Costume Shops, processing all fitting photos, purchasing and distribution of Costume Shop/Craft Shop supplies, as well as assisting in the execution of Orientations, Seminars, and Crew Meals. A working knowledge of computers and word/excel, some understanding of costume shop terminology, and experience in administrative organization are desired. Requires organizational, communication and interpersonal skills; Valid driver’s license with clean record required. April 24 – August 27.



Costume Crafts 2 positions. Assist with craft work including dyeing, distressing, jewelry construction and modification, leatherwork, stitching, painting, dying, labeling, shoe/boot modification, fabric and garment aging, and millinery/footwear construction and modification of costumes for four productions. Requires theatrical sewing skills and skill in one or more crafts areas. Portfolio required. May 8 – July 30 (1 position) or August 27(1 position).



Costume Design 1 position. Assist Costume Design teams during build, fitting set-up, and rehearsal process research and purchasing. Requires attention to detail and the ability to work as part of a collaborative team. Portfolio required. May 15 – August 6.



Costume Stitcher 6 positions. Assist with construction and/or alteration of costumes by hand and with machine for four productions while working on a team within the Costume Shop structure. Requires theatrical sewing skills and academic shop experience. Portfolio required. May 15 – July 9 (4 positions), July 16 (1 position), or July 30 (1 position).



Electrics 4 positions. Assist with installing, circuiting and focusing 500+ unit plot; perform daily changeovers; run productions; and strike. Requires thorough experience with stage electrics. This is a large crew and a team-oriented attitude is essential. May 15 (2 positions) or May 22 (2 positions) – August 28.



Hair & Makeup 2 positions. Assist with daily maintenance of wigs; pre-performance application of make-up, wigs and hairstyling for singers; and backstage quick changes. Ventilating experience necessary, and a congenial and artist-oriented personality is essential. A successful candidate will have broad knowledge and experience working with all hair types and skin tones, ventilating, foundation building, and show running experience. Portfolio required. May 29 – Aug 22.



Lighting Supervision 1 position. Will work closely with the Lighting Supervisors and Lighting Director to document, archive, and maintain 2 of 4 operas in repertory. In addition, will act as the second assistant on two operas. Must be familiar with Vectorworks, Lightwright, Microsoft Excel, and basic electrician knowledge. May 22 – August 20.



Production Administration 1 position. Assist Production Management and production department heads with office routines, scheduling, shopping, purchasing and budget tracking; provide staff support including safety program implementation, as well as assisting in the execution of Orientations, Seminars, and Crew Meals. Requires organizational, communication and interpersonal skills; basic knowledge of production procedures and terminology; computer literacy; and valid driver’s license with a clean driving record. April 24 – August 27.



Properties 1 position. Assist with construction and procurement of props for mainstage productions and other events. Basic woodworking skills are required as well as skills in one or more of the following areas: sewing, soft goods, crafts, sculpting, painting, or metal working. No run crew. Portfolio required. May 1 – July 30.



Properties Paint 1 position. Assist with the painting of props for mainstage productions and other events. May assist the scenic artists at times. Requires the ability to replicate scenic treatments through instruction from the Scenic Charge and/or references from designers. No run crew. Portfolio required. May 1 – August 27.



Rigging 1 position. Assist rigging staff with construction and modifications to flying scenery; installation of rigging systems for scenery and lighting equipment; electrics load-ins and rigging notes. No run crew. Requires the ability to read drawings, good metal fabrication skills and basic knowledge of single purchase counterweight systems. Basic MIG welding experience required. May 1 – July 30.



Scenic Carpentry 2 positions. Assist carpentry with construction and modifications to scenery; initial install of scenery; load-ins and some changeovers. No run crew. Requires the ability to read drawings, good stage carpentry skills in both wood and metal, and basic knowledge of single purchase counterweight systems. MIG welding experience required. May 1 – August 27.



Scene Design 1 position. Assist scenic designers during the technical rehearsal process with notes, research and drafting. Also assist in prop or paint shops as needed. Requires attention to detail and the ability to work as part of a collaborative team. Photoshop skills are desirable. Portfolio required. May 15 – August 13.



Scenic Painting 2 positions. Assist with scenery, prop painting and touch-ups. A strong foundation in drawing, layout, mixing and scenic craft skills is required. No run crew. Portfolio required. May 8 – July 30 (1 position) or August 11 (1 position).



Stage Management 2 positions. Assist stage management team with prep and running rehearsals of four productions; run rehearsals and performances for ancillary shows and concerts as assigned. Requires organizational, communication and interpersonal skills, ability to read music, and stage management experience on the academic level with a preference for those with an interest in opera. May 15 – August 20.



Stage Operations 5 positions. Assist with the install of repertory scenery; run deck, rail and properties; perform daily scenery changeovers; install and maintain rehearsal scenery and properties; and strike scenery at the end of the season. Basic familiarity with stage procedures is ideal. The position is an excellent introduction to most aspects of production. This is a large crew and a team-oriented attitude is essential. May 8 – August 27.



Technical Direction 1 position. Assist Technical Director and ATDs with shop management, drafting, budgeting and technical rehearsal supervision. AUTOCAD experience required. 3D preferred. Knowledge of Microsoft office is required. May 1 – August 27.



Wardrobe 4 positions. Assist in maintaining large repertory costume inventory, dressing principals and chorus, and backstage quick changes. Apprentices also are given the opportunity to work in costume shop and/or crafts shop for the first weeks of the contract period and need basic theatrical sewing skills. A congenial and artist-oriented personality is essential. May 29 – August 27.



APPRENTICESHIP APPLICATION INFORMATION/INSTRUCTIONS:

Date ranges are included for each Apprenticeship. Start dates are more flexible than end dates. Applications that have start and end dates significantly outside of the dates needed will not be considered.



Applicants are asked to submit a cover letter, resume (multiple single page resumes recommended when applying for multiple Apprenticeship positions), and references as a PDF file, combined as ONE document named the position you are applying for. The PDF file, in combination with your portfolio (as applicable), should be no larger than 10MB.



When applying for the Costumes, Crafts, Design, Hair & Makeup, Props, Photography, Scenic, or Technical Direction Apprenticeships, please send examples of work. An online portfolio is preferred. Online submissions are limited to 10MB.



The Apprenticeship Program is highly competitive; some positions are filled as early as the end of January. Early applications are encouraged. All positions in the Apprenticeship Program will be posted for two weeks prior to the start of the interview process and applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.



Cover letter



– Indicate earliest date available and latest departure date. Glimmerglass start dates are often more flexible than end dates. Applications that have start and end dates significantly outside of the dates provided below will not be considered.



Resume



– Include mailing address, telephone number, e-mail address, education (post high school, if applicable), work and internship experience (with dates). Multiple single page resumes recommended when applying for multiple Apprenticeship positions.



References



– Provide contact information for three references. Indicate your relationship to each reference, their telephone numbers and e-mail addresses. Applications listing “References upon request” will not be considered.



Portfolio



–Some positions (Carpentry, Costumes, Costume Crafts, Design, Hair & Makeup, Paints, Props, and Photography) require examples of your previous work- please include either a link to your digital portfolio/webpage or images with descriptions on additional pages at the end of your PDF submission. Online portfolio is preferred.







TO APPLY, PLEASE PREPARE YOUR ONEPAGE RESUME WITH THREE REFERENCES, ONE PAGE COVER LETTER, AND POSSIBLE PORTFOLIO IN A SINGLE PDF FILE AND COMPLETE THE GLIMMERGLASS EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION FORM ON OUR WEBSITE.
Salary: $14.20/Hr., eligible for Overtime, and includes housing.