Internships

An internship at Lifeline offers the opportunity to participate in Chicago's exciting professional theatre scene while working in a small informal atmosphere. Internships offer a meaningful component in a comprehensive program of theatre study, and may provide the first step into the professional theatre community. The Internship Program at Lifeline is designed to provide a challenging and enriching experience for qualified college Juniors and Seniors who are interested in pursuing careers in the theatre. Interns work under the direct supervision of Lifeline's professional artistic, production, and administrative staffs. Interns will learn about the working of professional theatre from a hands-on basis, assisting in day-to-day operations and on special projects.

If the intern wishes to receive academic credit for an internship, it will be the intern's responsibility to make arrangements with his or her school. Lifeline will provide the necessary job description and performance review upon request. Each intern will be required to provide a written evaluation of his or her internship upon its completion.

Interns receive no stipend. However some interns may be hired for temporary running or crew positions. There is no housing provided.

Application Procedure
Your application MUST include the following:

• Cover Letter which includes all contact information, internship category in which you are interested, and dates of availability.
• Resume of theatre and related experience
• Two letters of recommendation (may be sent separately)
• A Brief Statement (500 words or less) detailing what you expect from an internship, your career goals, and why you are applying to Lifeline Theatre. In addition, describe any special skills and personal strengths that qualify you for the position you are seeking.

Send all materials to:
Erica Foster
Operations Manager
Lifeline Theatre
6912 N. Glenwood
Chicago, IL 60626
Inquiries: (773) 262-0633 or erica@lifelinetheatre.com

Internships are available in the following areas:

Education Intern
The Education Intern assists the Education Coordinator in developing and executing our in-school residencies, KidsOnStage Classes, Student Matinees and Arts-for-All programs, including helping to prepare instructional materials for teacher guides, facilitating student matinee performances and discussions, compiling information from student and teacher evaluations, corresponding with school groups, and helping to maintain teacher database and archival materials.

This internship is available from September through May. A minimum commitment of 8 hours per week is required. The applicant should possess an overall understanding of the theatrical production process. Strong writing and interpersonal skill are necessary. Education experience is helpful, but not required.

Stage Management
The Stage Management Intern will work directly with the professional stage manager assigned to a specific production beginning with casting and pre-production through technical rehearsals, opening nights, and during the run of the show.

The intern should be available for weeknight evening rehearsals and weekend performances depending upon the individual demands of the given production. Lifeline will be as flexible as possible but the intern should expect to commit a minimum of fifteen hours per week. Applicants should have a general knowledge of technical theatre and the production process, with some experience in either community or college theatre.

Arts Administration
The Arts Administration Intern will work with the Managing, Artistic, and Marketing Directors on various special projects depending upon the skills and interest of the intern and the needs of the staff. The intern will receive a well-rounded experience in Arts Management. Special projects may include audience development projects and marketing, fund raising, grant research, special event planning, helping with the scheduling and monitoring of auditions, maintaining actor files, preparing rehearsal scripts, helping with ticket services and operating the box office computer system, and front of house management.

This internship is available year round and a minimum of six hours a week is required. Interested and qualified applicants may be hired as a House Manager, which is a paid position. The applicant should possess comprehensive knowledge of the various areas of the theatre and their functions, as well as strong, writing, communication, and general office skills. Computer literacy is helpful.