Internships & Jobs
We have students interning at...
Court Theatre
Victory Gardens Theater
Goodman Theatre
Second City
Northlight Theatre
Joffrey Ballet of Chicago
About Face Theatre
Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs
Redmoon Theater
Museum of Contemporary Art
Steppenwolf Theatre Company
Lookinglass Theatre
Hubbard Street Dance Company
Barrel of Monkeys
500 Clown
Internships
University Theater students often seek the opportunity to work in a professional theater environment. To that end, the professional staff of UT is available to assist students in finding appropriate internships, and to advise them during internships. While internships for U of C students are generally managed by Career and Placement Services (CAPS), but be sure to discuss internship opportunities with the professional staff as they have more knowledge and contact with Chicago theater.
Though it is easiest to do an internship during the summer, it is sometimes feasible to complete internships during the school year. Recently students have performed on the Steppenwolf Mainstage during fall quarter, and one student served as a stage management intern during the Goodman's winter production. These students arranged independent studies with UT staff members so that their internships resulted in academic credit. This is not, however, an option that is always available, and independent studies require reading and writing in addition to the internship itself. Students who wish to pursue an internship while they are enrolled in classes should consult with their advisors and members of the UT staff to discuss academic credit, scheduling, etc.
Where and What
U of C students have completed internships at theaters including Court Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, The Goodman Theatre, Lookinglass Theatre, Northlight Theatre, About Face Theatre Company, Second City, Museum of Contemporary Art, the Joffrey Ballet of Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, and Lifeline Theatre. Internships have ranged from acting to stage management to marketing and beyond, and have resulted in professional contacts and future employment for many students.
Endowed Internships
During the summer, a number of the endowed internships offered through the Jeff Metcalf Fellowship program at the University are earmarked for theater and other arts. These endowments provide large stipends for accepted students. In recent years, UT students had funded internships to work in casting at Steppenwolf, company management at The Joffrey, as an assistant director for Roadworks, and at Second City. Other grants, available through the U of C arts council, are occasionally available as well. More information about Arts Council funding is available from UT's Director, Heidi Coleman.
Jobs
Working for UT
University Theater/ TAPS hires student staff every year. Students work in outreach, as technicians, and as administrative/ managing support. If you are interested in a job at UT, please contact a member of Pro-Staff.
Working outside of UT
UT alumni serve many theater and arts organizations across the country. As you begin to look for a job after graduation, meet with Pro-Staff to find alums that may be willing to help you. Here are some other resources:
ONLINE RESOURCES:
PerformInk--Chicago trade paper
University /Resident Theater Association (URTA)
United States Institute for Theater Technology (USITT)
Association for Theatre in Higher Education (ATHE)
Theater Communications Group (TCG)
