Internship Information
Types of Internship
Performance Intern
Individuals are selected from an audition process and are also determined by the casting needs for the upcoming season. All performance interns will serve in a technical capacity when not in rehearsal or performance. These areas may be in administration, costumes, or scenery. The performance interns will generally be in a rehearsal or performance situation and will have the opportunity to audition for roles in many of the shows. A one year contract will provide the intern an opportunity to appear in 5-6 productions.
Costume Design Intern
This position works with the costumer on main-stage productions and has an opportunity to design for the second stage, The Circuit Playhouse. This should result in 6-8 productions to add to a resume. A college degree and previous experience is preferred. Good sewing skills are required.
Lighting/Sound Design Intern
The lighting intern, supervised by the Resident Lighting/Sound Designer, participates in all light hangs and focus calls for productions at Playhouse on the Square and The Circuit Playhouse. The lighting intern designs the lighting and sound for most shows at The Circuit Playhouse and if necessary, operates the light or sound control board. The intern will assist the resident designer in creation/fabrication of special effects, pyrotechnics, practicals, or set mount lighting. The intern will gain experience with state of the art digital sound while holding the role of Master Electrician or Assistant Lighting Designer at Playhouse on the Square. The intern will gain experience in drafting plots and working with the other designers. The intern will assist the resident designer with sound and lighting load-ins, cueing sessions, and the maintenance of all lighting, sound and special effects equipment for both theatres. Occasionally the intern will also assist in the maintenance work such as changing light bulbs or installing fixtures in the theatre.
Properties Intern
This position gathers props for main stage or second stage space as well as oversees and maintains the prop storage area. A car is essential for this position as well as a creative eye, and a pleasant disposition in dealing with the public. The properties intern is responsible to the stage manager. Some stage management opportunities may be available.
Scenic Design Intern
This position as Scenic Designer requires the ability to draft, paint, and adhere to a rigid time schedule. Duties include scenery construction, painting, load-ins and load-outs, stagehand work, show organization, and general clean up. This position will receive 4 to 6 scenic design assignments for the second stage, The Circuit Playhouse. A valid drivers license and good working knowledge of all shop tools is preferred. A positive working attitude is a must, and a concern for safety in the shop is essential.
Stage Management Intern
This position serves as the resident stage manager for the second stage, The Circuit Playhouse. They will be responsible to the individuals show director and The Circuit Playhouse Manager. Actors in the production may be members of the resident company, the intern company, or individuals from the community. All the normal stage management responsibilities fall to this position in addition to gathering props for the production. A person in this position needs to be responsible, organized, punctual, and self-motivated. A car is essential for this position.
Highlights of the Playhouse on the Square Internships Program
- Housing, local phone, washer and dryer are provided.
- $100.00 a week stipend is provided.
- You will not have to look for work or relocate frequently as all contracts are for one year.
- For Performance Interns: Your resume will include 4 to 6 new performance credits after a year from a respected 37 year old not-for-profit regional theatre.
- Design Interns will acquire 4 to 6 production design credits.
- Those with large monthly financial obligations are not encouraged to participate in the program.
- Cost of living in Memphis is very affordable.
- Health care benefits are available for a minimal fee.
- For Performance Interns, technical or administrative work is required when not in a rehearsal or performance situation.
- Work hours are generally from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, six days a week, except for load-in weeks at Playhouse on the Square. Days off are generally Sunday mornings and all of Monday, but this could vary depending on performance schedules.
- We are looking for those who live and perform well in a communal situation and are willing to commit for the long term.
If you are interested in an Internship
- Send a cover letter along with: headshot, resume, audition video/dvd
- If you are unable to send a video, you can make arrangements to audition with us in person by contacting Dave Landis at (901) 725-0776 or dave@playhouseonthesquare.org


