Job Abstract

Artistic Apprentice
Part-time, hourly, nonexempt, $20/hour
Approximately 15-20 hours per week.
Reports to the Artistic Director and works closely with other departmental leaders and apprentices.
Hybrid: Some remote work with most in-person (office, theatre, community sites).

CCAE Theatricals
CCAE Theatricals is a nonprofit professional theatre company based in Escondido. The mission of the organization is to celebrate human connection through theatre and education by sharing stories that illuminate the individual experience and cultivate a collective voice. Learn more at theatricals.org.

About the Dorris Staples Theatrical Conservatory
The Dorris Staples Theatrical Conservatory (DSTC), a program of CCAE Theatricals, provides access to and creates pathways for careers and experiences in theatre arts, ensuring the industry belongs to everyone. A specific intention of DSTC at CCAE Theatricals is to increase the representation of a diversity of identities that have been historically underrepresented in theatre. DSTC apprenticeships provide the opportunity for paid training and workforce development in technical and artistic fields of theatrical production as well as arts leadership and administration.

Job Description
The Artistic Apprentice position is designed to give pre-professional theatre artists a broad view of all operations of the artistic department of a professional theatre company, including but not limited to artistic direction and planning, dramaturgy and script analysis, audition coordination, maintaining the artist's database, corresponding with artists and agents, community engagement, and audience development. In addition to artistic responsibilities, the apprentice will work with all levels of cast, creatives, and theatre staff to learn and promote seamless company management. The apprentice will gain real-world, professional experience supporting artistic and general operations of CCAE Theatricals. The Artistic Apprentice reports directly to the Artistic Director and works closely with the Managing Producer and Director of Education & Engagement.

Time Frame
September 1, 2024 - August 31, 2025

Responsibilities

1. Production Support: Assist in the artistic production process for theatrical performances, including rehearsals, set construction, costume fittings, and technical rehearsals. Work closely with production teams to bring artistic visions to life on stage.
2. Script Analysis: Participate in script readings, discussions, and analysis sessions to gain insight into character development, thematic elements, and storytelling techniques. Contribute ideas and feedback to enhance the creative process.
3. Design Collaboration: Collaborate with designers, directors, and fellow apprentices to conceptualize and execute set designs, costumes, lighting, soundscapes, and other visual elements. Learn about design processes and techniques through hands-on involvement.
4. Performance Participation: Pending an audition, have the opportunity to perform in ensemble roles or understudy assignments, depending on experience and interest. Gain practical experience on stage and develop acting skills under the guidance of professional mentors.
5. Creative Development: Contribute creatively to workshops, new play development projects, and experimental performances. Explore different theatrical styles, genres, and forms of storytelling in a supportive and collaborative environment.
6. Production Administration: Provide administrative support to the artistic department, including scheduling rehearsals, coordinating meetings, managing scripts, and organizing production materials.
7. Professional Development: Attend workshops, masterclasses, and seminars led by industry professionals to expand your knowledge and skills in theatre arts, acting techniques, and production processes.
8. Event Coordination: Work closely with the Managing Producer and house management team to learn the ins and outs of successfully managing our events and productions.
9. Budget: Learn basic budget concepts, including cost sheets and profit and loss statements, and understand how these documents support the overall organizational budget.
10. Support arts education offerings within the Department of Education & Engagement.
11. Assist in community engagement strategies and represent the department at CCAE theatrical shows and events.
12. Have a presence at a majority of CCAE Theatricals performances and events to staff the philanthropy table and/or box office.

Capstone Staged Reading Series
One of the main projects for Dorris Staples Theatrical Conservatory apprentices is to work collaboratively on the apprentice-produced Staged Reading Series. The staged readings are a unique opportunity for apprentices to take ownership of a project with guidance and support from industry professionals. There will be two staged readings per year: one in the fall and one in the spring.

Desired Qualifications

• A desire to learn and the ability to seek learning activities. Self-starters will be successful in this role.
• Passion for social impact and alignment with the companys core values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.
• Interest and/or passion for theatre or the performing arts.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Mentorship from experienced professionals in the field.
• Opportunities for networking and professional development.
• Exposure to diverse perspectives and innovative approaches to theatre production
• Complimentary tickets to CCAE Theatricals events

Questions about this role can be emailed to the Director of Education & Engagement, Tom Abruzzo
tabruzzo@theatricals.org