Moonlight Youth Theatre Offers Theatre Internships for Students

Moonlight Cultural Foundation announces its new internship program through Moonlight Youth Theatre in partnership with the Vista Education Foundation. The year-round program will offer several internship opportunities for local middle and high school youth who are interested in musical theatre production and design.

"Through the generous financial support from Vista Education Foundation, we are able to offer students in the Vista Unified School District and neighboring districts the opportunity to gain valuable experience and skills through meaningful, impactful hands-on experiences in a professional and nurturing environment," said Toria Watson, CEO, Moonlight Cultural Foundation.

Moonlight Cultural Foundation funds the program as part of their commitment to providing education in theatre arts that fosters confidence, creativity and leadership skills. Each year, MYT helps hundreds of aspiring young actors pursue their dreams by performing in stage productions and attending theatrical workshops. The organization is committed to providing exceptional internship opportunities for the next generation of artists, educators and administrators.

The program will provide students with short-term and long-term internship opportunities throughout the year to perform hands-on tasks and learn about the tools needed to move forward in a chosen field observing, training, collaborating and shadowing dedicated professionals at an award-winning theatre organization and gain invaluable experience, build a resumé, and make connections.

The following positions will be offered through the MYT internship program:

Assistant Stage Management Intern

Choreography Intern/Dance Captain

Costume Design Intern

Director Intern

Lighting Design Intern

Make-Up Design Intern

Musical Direction Intern

Orchestra Intern

Production Management Intern

Properties Design Intern

Sound Design Intern

Stage Management Intern

Along with acquiring invaluable skills, professional development and networking opportunities, MYT interns will also be compensated with complimentary tickets to Moonlight Stage Productions and Moonlight Cultural Foundation performances. Interns will also receive community service hours as well as be considered for job opportunities in future Moonlight productions.

"To have the artistic freedom that Moonlight provides, encourages, and fosters is truly unique and special," said Courtney Conway, dance captain, Moonlight Youth Theatre. "You are in charge of what you are going to create from the first rehearsal."

According to a new Harris Poll, 93 percent of Americans believe that the arts are vital to providing a well-rounded education. Certain arts activities promote growth in positive social skills, including self-confidence, self-control, conflict resolution, collaboration, empathy and social tolerance. Research evidence demonstrates these benefits apply to all students, not just the gifted and talented, but also at-risk youth.

Moonlight Youth Theatre produces shows at both Moonlight Amphitheatre and AVO Playhouse. Currently, more than 100 youth are enrolled in the program and come from all over San Diego County to participate in master classes, workshops and other special performance groups such as the annual traveling Holiday Show Choir.

MYT recently received 12 nominations for the 11th Annual National Youth Arts Awards, which honors exceptional work by youth artists. Some of the nomination categories consisted of Best Lead Actor in a Musical, Outstanding Production, Best Ensemble, Best Direction and Best Orchestra. MYT earned four awards, including Best Lead Actress in a Musical, which went to Courtney Conway for her portrayal of Jane in "Tarzan The Stage Musical" in 2015.

For more information on how to apply to the MYT internship program, visit moonlightfoundation.com or contact Toria Watson, CEO, Moonlight Cultural Foundation via 760-630-7650. Community sponsors are also welcomed to sustain the program for the future.

Moonlight Cultural Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was formed in 1974 and is the fundraising arm as well as the producing partner for Moonlight Stage Productions. In addition to providing funds for Moonlight Stage Productions, the Foundation plans and presents the Moonlight Youth Theater education program and also supports educational and community arts outreach programs. Community and financial support is essential to our mission to promote culture and diversity through theatre that unites the community. With financial, marketing, and program support from the Foundation, Moonlight Stage Productions is now regarded as one of Southern California's most professional and mature arts institutions.

Moonlight Cultural Foundation's sponsors include: Muriel & Hans Schiff, Forte For Children, Datron World Communications, Issa Family Foundation, Modern Builders Supply, Vista Valley Country Club, Gardenology, Cox, Scripps, Pacific Marine Credit Union, Atlantic & Pacific Management, ArtBeat on MainStreet, and Scatena Daniels Communications.

For more information on supporting Moonlight Stage Productions and helping to preserve the joy of Live Theatre for future generations to come, visit www.moonlightfoundation.com, Facebook or call 760-630-7650.

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