Festival 56 will offer up to three youth ages 14-22 the opportunity to work as paid apprentices with the resident professional company with various aspects of theatre production. This program is made possible through federal funds and sponsored by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.
Over 8 weeks, each high school apprentice will be assigned to work in one or more of the following areas: Scenic Design (including properties and scenic art), Technical Direction (and scenic construction), Costume Design (including construction and wardrobe), Directing (including choreography and/or music direction), Lighting and Sound Design (including electrics and engineering), Production and Stage Management, and Public Relations (including marketing and audience services).
Apprentices will work approximately 15 hours per week at a wage of $15.00 an hour and will have the opportunity to enter into a mentorship with one of the company’s professional artists. Apprentices will also have the opportunity to volunteer additional time in one or more area of theatre production. Applicants must be available to work for an 8-week period between June 8 – August 9.
Applications should be received by email by May 1. To apply, please submit a cover letter (including contact information and age as of June 1, 2026) stating previous experience, goals relating to future studies or a career in the theatre arts at the college or professional level, and a personal artistic statement. Letters should be emailed to aharper@festival56.com with the subject, “Apprentice.” A personal resume including the above information and a headshot would be an asset.
Following a review of the applicants, those moving on to the next level will be interviewed. One letter of recommendation may be required from a teacher or artistic mentor.
Those applying under the age of 16: The Illinois Child Labor Law (820 ILCS 205/1 et seq.) regulates the employment of minors under the age of 16 years and requires all minors to have employment certificates. Should one of these minors be hired, the Princeton Theater Group will follow these procedures:
Required Procedures For Teens under 16!