About us > The Ground Floor > Summer internships
The Ground Floor summer internships
introduction to the ground floor internship program
The Ground Floor provides a summer internship program for highly motivated, responsible individuals who want to delve into the world of new play development at a major regional theatre. Interns will be fully immersed in the daily operations of the Summer Residence Lab and will rotate between artistic (artistic/rehearsal assistants) and administrative (artist services/hospitality) assignments (click here for more information on The Ground Floor). In addition to developing and honing their skills, interns will have many opportunities to interact with Berkeley Rep staff and summer residency guest artists, including participating in meet and greets, Q&As and observing readings.
During the summer residency program, interns will rotate between two learning experiences. During their one week artistic/rehearsal rotation, interns will be guided by our artistic and literary staff in supporting a smooth rehearsal and/or writing process for our guest artists. During the artist services/hospitality rotation, interns will be a key liaison between visiting theatre artists, the Berkeley Rep staff and the Berkeley community. Mentored by the management and production staff, interns will learn the basics of how to create and foster a welcoming environment that is conducive for artists to develop their work.
Applicants should have excellent organizational and time management skills, proficiency with basic Microsoft Office programs, the ability to work well with a variety of people, a valid drivers’ license, as well as knowledge of the theatre. Prior stage management skills are a plus. Interns should be prepared (as do we all at the Summer Lab) to work long hours from time to time. Sense of humor, flexibility and maturity are essential. Must be 21 years or older.
Please note: All internships involve driving and the applicant must have an acceptable driving record as approved by our insurance representatives. All internships are contingent upon passing a criminal background check.
Overview
- Dates (subject to change)
- Training and prep: Week of May 26, 2013 / TBD
- Summer residencies: June 4–30, 2013
- Wrap up: July 1, 2013
- Dinner provided 6 days a week for three weeks with summer residency artists and staff.
- Entry to Q&A sessions, readings and other events with summer residency artists and staff.
- $100 weekly transportation stipend ($400 total). There is no housing available.
- Must be 21+ and approved to drive company vehicles.
how to apply
Click here for an application form
(You must have the most current version of Adobe Acrobat to view and sign this document. Download a free Adobe Acrobat reader.)
A complete application consists of:
- An application form (including the names and contact information of three references)
- A cover letter (please address the following questions using no more than 500 words):
- What opportunities or experiences are you looking for in a Summer Residency Lab internship?
- What is your experience and/or education in theatre? If none, what comparable experience can you offer?
- Why are you a strong candidate for this internship?
- A resume (please list education, administrative and theatre experience, training and any other related work)
Please email ALL items (in one email) to groundfloorapps@berkeleyrep.org, no later than February 17, 2013. Positions will be filled on a rolling basis as qualified applicants are identified.
Letters of recommendation are neither required nor expected. Please do not call to check on the status of your application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
other important information
Academic credit
If your school would like to translate your internship experience into academic units, Berkeley Rep is happy to work with your school advisor. Please provide any paperwork with your application.
Living expenses
Berkeley Rep provides a small stipend to assist with daily expenses, including transportation. The stipend is $400 (total), for 4 weeks of the internship.
Housing and transportation
There is no housing available. There is free street parking available adjacent to our offices.
International applicants
Berkeley Rep is only able to accept applicants who have taken care of the necessary documents to work in the United States (i.e. visas, green cards, citizenship, etc.). The Theatre cannot sponsor or assist applicants in the visa application process. For more information, please contact the United States embassy in your country.
Affirmative action
Berkeley Rep is an equal opportunity employer and believes strongly in affirmative action. Berkeley Rep’s staff reflects the diversity of the Bay Area and encourages applicants of all backgrounds to apply.
Contact information
Questions? Email the staff of The Ground Floor at groundfloorapps@berkeleyrep.org. No phone calls, please.
frequently asked questions
What kind of education do I need to have?
This internship is aimed for applicants looking to make the jump from the academic world to the professional world of theatre. While a college degree is not required, we ask that applicants have some practical knowledge and experience in theatre. We do not accept high school students.
Can I hold a job during my internship?
For maximum learning opportunities, The Ground Floor internships are designed around the regular workings of the Summer Residency Lab and we expect them to take up 40+ hours per week with a schedule that may vary day-to-day. We strongly recommend against holding an outside job during this internship.
the ground floor leadership
Madeleine Oldham
Director
Karena Fiorenza Ingersoll
Manager
Mina Morita
Artistic Associate
