The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ) is a true Teaching Theatre – a role in which we take great pride. For over 30 years, STNJ has provided an exceptional training ground for early career theatre artists by creating an environment that is nurturing, inspiring, and disciplined; challenging students to push themselves and their craft to the next level.

"If you want to better yourself, if you want to better your craft, this is the place to be."

— Samuel F., SPTP alumnus

2026 Cohort: June 15 - August 9

OBSERVATION:

Interns will assist with the summer Main Stage production, and immerse themselves in the work of renowned theatre artists in all areas of the theatre.

EDUCATION:

Interns will participate in weekly classes, master classes, and workshops in targeted areas of study.

EXPERIENCE:

Under the instruction of and support from STNJ staff and guest artists, interns will gain valuable practical experience working alongside professionals in a variety of departments. 

Through these three pillars, participants will both further their skills in their area(s) of interest and develop a comprehensive, holistic understanding of a career in theatre. 

Those admitted into the 2026 Cohort will partner with specific departments to aid in the administrative, technical, production, and educational operations of the Theatre. Interns will collaborate with professional artists both in and outside of their home departments, and will often participate in learning experiences as a full cohort. 

REQUIRED MATERIALS: Resume, cover letter, and two references.

Internship Opportunities:

Internship roles each summer may vary from year to year. Available positions depend on the needs of the season.

Internship roles can include, but are not limited to:

Arts Administration

This department oversees all aspects of the artistic administration of the organization. An intern can also expect to gain experience with unions and contracts while assisting with the daily administrative functions of the Theatre. This focus area may also involve drafting season budgets and timelines, collaborating on season programming and special events, liaising with other departments, and exploring grants and other fundraising opportunities. 

• Company Management:
  • This intern works directly with the Theatre’s Company Manager. Resonsibilities include organizing special events for company members, becoming familiar with the Theatre’s contract with Actor’s Equity Association, coordination of housing and transportation for artists in residence, tracking of payments, and union correspondence. The intern plays a key role in the interdepartmental flow of information both within the Theatre and with Drew University. The ideal candidate will have experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Google and its programs, along with strong oral and written communication skills. This position may incude an earlier start date and a later end date. Applicants must be 21 years of age by the start of the program, possess a valid driver’s license for at least three years, and have a clean driving record
• Development: 
  • This intern works with The Shakespeare Theatre’s Development Department in all aspects of fundraising. Responsibilities include assisting in the preparation of grant applications and proposals, helping to plan and execute special events, including Opening Night parties for Main Stage productions, participating in donor prospect research, maintaining donor histories, as well as other administrative duties. Interns in the Development Department receive well rounded, hands-on experience in raising contributions for a non-profit theatre. A valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle is recommended.
• Marketing
  • This intern assists with community and media relations efforts, electronic media, and the execution of sophisticated marketing strategies for subscription and single ticket campaigns. Duties include preparing and submitting press materials, online social networking for the institution, media and web site editing and maintenance, assisting with media inquiries and interviews, photo calls, grassroots marketing, print production/design, and maintaining print and press archives. A valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle is recommended.

Costumes & Wardrobe

The Costume Shop is responsible for all aspects of costuming during a run such as building, fitting, and maintaining wardrobes for each show. This intern will explore and collaborate with a number of roles within the Costume Shop, including draper, stitcher, and design.

• Costume Construction and Design:
  • The Costume Construction and Design intern can expect to design and construct costumes for the 2026 Apprentice Cohort's Final Project and assist with costume tech for the summer Main Stage show. 
• Wardrobe:
  • The Wardrobe intern can expect to be placed on the wardrobe team for the summer Main Stage, and may assist with costume tech for both the summer Main Stage and future shows. 

Education

The Education Department develops, organizes, and coordinates education programming for patrons of all ages. The Education Department also develops curriculums, audience guides, and other audience engagement materials. Interns in the Education Department will assist with in-school residencies, dramaturgical projects, program administration and serve as teaching artists working with students enrolled in the 2026 Summer Shakespeare Academy. A valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle is recommended for this internship.

General Production / Stage Management

The Production Department hires, schedules, and oversees the production crews; estimates labor and material costs; and oversees details with touring companies, promotors, and rental clients. The department prepares purchase orders, invoices, and all paperwork necessary for building a season.

• Carpentry:
  • This intern works with the Technical Director and professional staff as part of the team that builds the scenery for the summer Main Stage production. To realize the designs of its renowned designers, the Theatre utilizes not only traditional woodworking and carpentry approaches, but also a great deal of metalcraft, welding and other techniques. Qualified interns with a design focus may assist Main Stage designers. They may also be asked to create and execute scenic designs for the Summer Shakespeare Academy, The Final SPTP Project, or other SPTP projects providing additional portfolio-building opportunities. Design assignments are assigned at the discretion of the Technical Director, Charge Artist, and the Education Department.
• Lighting and Sound Technology: 
  • This intern will dive into lighting and sound plots for individual productions; assist with load-in, hang, focus, and tech; and work on show calls, maintenance, and strike. This intern can expect to be placed on a show as Lighting and/or Sound Board Operator. In addition, the intern may be invited to design and production meetings for future shows at the Theatre and help prepare electric elements for these productions. 
• Stage Management/General Production:
  • This intern will assist in all areas of production, including the administrative side of theatre production, such as scheduling, communication, and budgeting. This intern may also assist the Production Stage Manager for the summer Main Stage production. A valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle is recommended for this internship.

Apply Today!

For more information, please contact Training@ShakespeareNJ.org or call (973) 845-6742.

Interested in our Acting Apprenticeships? Click HERE for more info!