Applications open for backstage training and internship programs at Confederation Centre of the Arts

February 28, 2023 – A backstage training program will return for its third iteration at Confederation Centre of the Arts. The opportunity gives participants hands-on training from highly accomplished industry professionals in a variety of production departments, including lighting, props, sound, stage management, and wardrobe. The program is funded through the Canada-PEI Labour Market Agreements.

“This program is a launching pad for people who have a love of theatre and interested in working behind the scenes,” says Andrea Surich, general manager of theatre at the Centre. “Participants will get hands-on training that will teach them skills for working in theatre that are also transferable to other industries like film or music.”

The training sessions will run throughout April. After completing the program, some participants may be offered paid summer internships at organizations such as Confederation Centre of the Arts, The Guild, Victoria Playhouse, Watermark Theatre, and more.

The deadline to apply is Friday, March 10, 2023 at 5 p.m. Information can be found at confederationcentre.com/backstagetraining.

Backstage Training Program:
• Program is offered to a maximum of 25 participants (up to five trainees per discipline)
• Program duration is either one week (30 hours) or two weeks (60 hours)
• Training is offered free of charge and will take place at Confederation Centre of the Arts
• Individuals may apply for and be selected for more than one session/discipline
• Training will be given in English
• Schedule is Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 – 4 p.m. (some changes due to holidays)

Training Dates:
• Lighting (one week) April 3 – 8 (April 7 off for Good Friday)
• Props (two weeks) April 3 – 8 and April 10 – 14 (April 7 off for Good Friday)
• Wardrobe (two weeks) April 24 – 28 & May 1 – 5
• Sound (one week) April 24 – 28
• Stage Management (one week) April 24 – 28

Internship Program:
Opportunities to work in professional theatre in PEI under the mentorship of experienced professionals.
• There are 13 – 14 paid positions available
• Interns must attend the backstage training program, ideally in the department in which they will be placed
• Pay rate is $18/hour, average of 37.5 hours/week (schedule will vary depending on theatre, role, and production calendar)
• Specific contract dates are TBD, but applicants will need open summer availability (i.e. end of May/beginning of June through the end of August)

Internship Positions Available:

Confederation Centre of the Arts (Charlottetown) – one contract
• Stage Management

The Guild (Charlottetown) – one contract
• Tech / Stage management

Harbourfront Centre (Summerside) – one (1) contract
• Tech

King’s Playhouse (Georgetown) – one contract
• Tech / Stage management

River Clyde Pageant (New Glasgow) – three contracts
• Stage management – two contracts
• Props/Wardrobe – one contract

Victoria Playhouse (Victoria-by-the-Sea) – two contracts
• Stage management
• Tech (including sound/light operation)

Watermark Theatre (North Rustico) – four contracts
• Stage Management
• Tech
• Props – please note applicant must have access to a vehicle
• Wardrobe

Eligibility Criteria:
• Canadian citizenship or permanent residency
• Current resident of Prince Edward Island
• 18 years of age or older

Application Process:
• All applications must be received by Friday, March 10, 2023
• Applicant will choose whether to apply for training only, or to apply for both training and internship program
• Interviews will be held the week of March 13, and all successful applicants will be notified by March 20 at the latest

To apply, visit confederationcentre.com/backstagetraining

Applicants can contact Rosie Shaw, theatre project coordinator, at [email protected] or 902-682-6137 with questions or requests for accommodations.

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