We are still looking for one more Wardrobe & Costume Apprentice to join our 2023-24 Apprentice class, which will begin on September 11, 2023.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Olney Theatre Center is a teaching theatre, committed to training the next generation of theatre makers and committed to providing these training opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds and identities. Every year apprentices live on campus and work under the professional mentorship of our full-time staff (many of whom are apprentice alumni!). These emerging professionals serve key responsibilities in virtually every department of the organization. At Olney Theatre apprentices forge connections within the theatre community, learn practical and professional skills, and build their resumes and portfolios.
Our program offers a space for emerging theatre artists to learn and work alongside the nation’s best designers, directors, and administrators. Apprentices also have the opportunity to complete a Capstone Project tailored to enhance their individual goals as a culmination of their experience at the end of the apprenticeship.
As an Olney Theatre Center Apprentice you will…
- Live and work in a vibrant artistic community for a full season. On-site housing includes shared bedroom, bath, common area, and kitchen.
- Take advantage of the Washington, DC theatre scene, the nation’s second-largest theatre market.
- Develop marketable skills and create contacts for future employment.
- Benefit from working directly with the resident staff, in addition to over 300 visiting professional artists.
- Participate in bi-monthly professional development classes with various staff members at Olney Theatre Center.
- Receive complimentary tickets to Olney Theatre Center productions and many other DC area shows.
- Earn $225 weekly stipend.
- Have shared use of company vehicles and free parking (also free for personal vehicles).
HOW TO APPLY
1. Submit materials to apprenticeships@olneytheatre.org. What materials are appropriate? Standard materials often include a resume, cover letter, and three references (just contact info). Additionally, some people like to include links to portfolios or writing samples. Some people like to send full letters of reference; that's great too. Most importantly, we want you to let us know (1) who you are and (2) why you want to spend a year learning and working with us. So submit what you think will best tell us that.
2. Complete the Apprentice 2023-2024 Application portion. This form is strictly voluntary and asks for demographic information that helps us track who is applying to our programs so we can make future plans that serve our Anti-Racism Reaffirmation. You do not have to complete this form in order to submit your materials in step one, but collecting this data will help us get a better idea of who we're reaching. In order to complete the form, it'll ask you to create an account with us. We will never look at your individual answers to this form in regards to your application materials.
WARDROBE & COSTUME
Working directly with the Costume Shop Manager, Assistant Manager, Wardrobe Supervisor, and visiting designers, Wardrobe and Costume Apprentices assist in the construction and alteration of costumes. They also serve as wardrobe crew, which includes cleaning, maintaining, and repairing costumes and wigs during the run of each show.
Wardrobe and Costume Apprentices handle some projects from inception to completion. Through participating in daily shop operations, apprentices strengthen sewing, construction, draping, and patterning skills, as well as wardrobe management. They also have the opportunity to shadow visiting designers and learn about design budgeting and planning.
Applicants should have at least basic sewing skills. This apprenticeship is suitable for those working toward careers as First Hands, Cutters, Drapers, Costume Shop Managers, and Wardrobe Supervisors.
