Theater Production Intern
Basic Information
Organization: Gorton Center Job Title: Theater Production Intern Position Type: Internship Reports To: Theater Manager Work-Study Program: No
Job Description
Gorton is seeking a Theater Production Intern to support the planning and execution of productions, performances, and events in the John & Nancy Hughes Theater and outdoor venues. The intern will work closely with Gorton’s Theater Manager and Technical Production Manager to gain hands-on experience across all areas of live production, including lighting, sound, projection, and stage operations.
This internship is ideal for a college student pursuing a degree in theater production, technical theater, recording technology, or a related field who wants real-world experience supporting professional productions.
Duties include:
- Learning about and assisting with operating lighting, sound, and projection equipment for productions and performances
- Working directly with the Technical Production Manager on projects and productions
- Assisting with equipment inventory, repair, and maintenance
- Assisting with production set-up, load-ins, load-outs, and design
- Assisting with daily maintenance tasks
- Assisting with research, archival, and documentation
- Supporting special projects as assigned
- Assisting with house monitoring, safety/security, and front-of-house coordination as needed
- Performing other duties as assigned
Position Details
Location Type: Onsite Onsite Location: Lake Forest, Illinois, United States
Time Requirements
Schedule: Part-time, seasonal Total Hours: 150 hours over the course of the internship Typical Weekly Hours: Approximately 10–15 hours per week (hours will vary week to week depending on production and performance schedules, and will be communicated in advance) Employment Duration: Temporary/seasonal Availability: Evening and weekend availability required, based on event schedule
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation: $2,250 stipend for the internship
Candidate Qualifications
Work Authorization: This position requires US work authorization
Required/Preferred Skills:
- Basic knowledge of live sound engineering and/or lighting
- Basic knowledge of architectural lighting or sound, digital cinema projection, and/or stage construction
- Aptitude for hardware and software technology
- Troubleshooting skills
- Basic knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
- Basic knowledge of hand and power tools
- Ability to work independently on projects; self-starter
- Detail-oriented and organized
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, alone or with assistance
- Willingness to learn
Education:
- Actively pursuing an Associate’s degree or higher in theater production, technical theater, recording technology, lighting, or a related field
- School Year: Sophomore, Junior, or Senior preferred
- Major Groups: Visual & Performing Arts
Experience:
- Previous experience in theater production preferred (equipment operation, live production, or related coursework)
How to Apply
Candidates should submit applications through Handshake. The following documents are required:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
Number of Hires: 1
