Interns train under the Technical Director, working on scenic construction, shop drawings, and potentially serving as Assistant Technical Director for productions. All interns help with shop maintenance.
Technical Theatre Internships
Work side-by-side with industry professionals
Hone your skills in a dynamic, hands-on environment
Elevate your craft
Accepting applications for summer 2025 and beyond December 1st, 2024

Summer Internships
Summer Interns typically arrive at the end of May. While many interns leave mid-August, some remain through the first week of September.
Fall/Spring Internships
Our “yearlong” offering where Interns typically start at the beginning of September and work through the end of May.
Other Opportunities
Summer Run Crew opportunities offer shorter, show-based internships. Based on skill and availability, potential 12-18 month internships are available.
Important Information
FINANCIALS
Interns are given a scholarship stipend of $660 a week
ALLAN HANCOCK COLLEGE
PCPA’s Technical Theatre Interns are registered through our host, Allan Hancock College. Registration fees are waived. Interns receive the benefits of a regular AHC student. Click here for more information.
HOUSING
PCPA doesn’t offer housing. However, we provide guidance on identifying housing options in the community and connecting you with other students and interns who may be looking for roommates. While rental costs vary depending on individual needs and preferences, students can expect to pay around $600 to $1500 monthly.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE IN
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DESIGN ASSISTANT POSITIONS AVAILABLE IN COSTUMES, ELECTRICS, SCENE DESIGN, AND SOUND
Application requirements

Applicants will submit the following documents:
- Cover letter expressing your area of interest
- Current resume (including theatre training and experience)
- Relevant Portfolio Materials
- List of three references
Candidates who meet the initial qualifications will be contacted for an interview.
Interviews are typically conducted via Zoom or phone.
Please note that you may not receive interviews due to high volume of applicants.
Internship Offerings
Carpentry
Costume Shop
Costume Shop interns train under the guidance of the Costume Shop Manager, Assistant Costume Shop Manager, and other experienced staff in the shop. Interns are assigned roles based on their experience and production needs, with opportunities in:
- Costume Design Assistant: Support the Costume Designer with research, sourcing, fittings, and taking notes. Basic sewing skills are helpful, and design opportunities may be offered based on experience.
- First Hand: Responsibilities including cutting, altering, and overseeing Stitchers during costume builds. Strong stitching and tailoring skills are preferred.
- Stitching: Focus on sewing mock-ups, altering garments, and hand-finishing pieces.
- Hair and Makeup Assistance: Help with wig styling, fittings, and the implementation of hair and makeup designs. Ventilating skills are a plus.
- Costume Crafts: Assist in the creation, repair, and alteration of costume craft pieces, with knowledge of safe shop practices.
All interns contribute to shop maintenance, cleaning, and restocking supplies.
Electrics
Electrics interns will assist with implementing the lighting design for the summer season. Their responsibilities will include hanging lights, cabling, focusing, and building practical effects. Intern opportunities may involve operating a follow-spot, programming and managing a light board, or working as a Lighting Design Assistant or Lead Electrician. While experience with Vectorworks and Lightwright is beneficial, it is not required.
Props
Interns work under the Props Director, creating props and managing prop needs for productions. Tasks include building with various materials and serving as Prop Manager.
Scenic Art
Interns work under the Scenic Charge Artist, assisting with painting and maintaining tools. They gain hands-on experience in scenic painting and may lead painting projects for productions.
Scenic Design
Interns collaborate with the Resident Scenic Designer on drafting, model making, and research. They develop skills in software like VectorWorks and may be offered design opportunities.
Sound
Interns assist the Sound Director with design, engineering, and equipment management. They learn about sound system troubleshooting, recording, and mixing, with possible design opportunities.
Stage Management
Interns serve as Assistant Stage Managers for main stage productions, helping manage rehearsals and performances. They may also stage manage conservatory productions and educational outreach projects.
Summer Deck Run Crew
Summer Deck Run Crew interns support main stage productions by assisting with scene changes, props, and other backstage needs. This flexible internship is offered on a show-by-show basis rather than requiring a full summer commitment. Stipends may vary or be lower than other internships due to differences in hours.
Design Assistant
Design Assistant positions are available in Costumes, Electrics, Scene Design, and Sound. These roles integrate into the standard internship within their respective departments, providing focused opportunities to assist with design processes and execution. These positions are typically year-long but may vary in duration, including summer opportunities.