GET STARTED: Sign up for the Feb. 18 Workshop, or request our workshop video [HERE]
APPRENTICE FAQS
Email apprentices@opsfest.org by February 14 for access to required training materials and info sessions.
Completed applications are due by March 31.
Completed applications are due by March 31.
What makes OPS Fest different?
OPS Fest performs unrehearsed (“improv-ish”) Shakespeare plays using the same techniques that Shakespeare’s own actors would have used in the 16th & 17th centuries -- hence the “original practice.” However, we ditch the not-so-inclusive aspects of Elizabethan performance; we believe that Shakespeare is for everyone.
Every OPS performance is FREE, performed using techniques that engage the audience as active participants, and cast with gender- and race-conscious casting practices. Our company is 75% women/non-binary, 50% LGBTQIA+, 20% BIPOC, and 20% artists with disabilities . We believe that people are more important than art, and strive to create the changes we want to see in the theatre industry with policies that put the physical and emotional safety of our artists first.
Read more about the OPS Fest Company [here]
Every OPS performance is FREE, performed using techniques that engage the audience as active participants, and cast with gender- and race-conscious casting practices. Our company is 75% women/non-binary, 50% LGBTQIA+, 20% BIPOC, and 20% artists with disabilities . We believe that people are more important than art, and strive to create the changes we want to see in the theatre industry with policies that put the physical and emotional safety of our artists first.
Read more about the OPS Fest Company [here]
What is a tech apprenticeship like?
Tech Apprentices are not cast in acting roles during the season, so all of their scheduled performances are in tech crew & front-of-house roles. They are often assigned specific organizational projects, prop/costume repair tasks, and stage management shadowing. Tech apprentices work towards stepping into Assistant Stage Management shifts as the season progresses, and act as the Stage Manager(s) for the Apprentice/Intern Showcase. Tech apprentices are also encouraged to propose a personal project in a design/tech discipline of their choice.
Who can become an Apprentice or Intern? What is the difference?
Apprentices are college students, recent grads, or early career theatre professionals who are ready to fully immerse themselves in a hands-on season of Shakespeare training, performance, and technical theatre.
Interns may be newer to professional theatre or need a reduced time commitment. Interns are scheduled for fewer shows in the OPS season and are generally cast in less demanding roles, but are still part of the same hands-on training and immersive company involvement as Apprentices.
Our most successful Apprentices/Interns have been curious and dedicated individuals who are eager to try new techniques, build relationships with other artists, and share their own creativity. We look for strong performers/technicians who are ready to learn and incorporate new skills as well as become an engaged and supportive part of the company.
Interns may be newer to professional theatre or need a reduced time commitment. Interns are scheduled for fewer shows in the OPS season and are generally cast in less demanding roles, but are still part of the same hands-on training and immersive company involvement as Apprentices.
Our most successful Apprentices/Interns have been curious and dedicated individuals who are eager to try new techniques, build relationships with other artists, and share their own creativity. We look for strong performers/technicians who are ready to learn and incorporate new skills as well as become an engaged and supportive part of the company.
Where does OPS Fest perform?
We are based in Portland, Oregon, and perform on the current and ancestral lands of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, Kalapuya, Atfalati, Cascades, Cowlitz, and Multnomah tribes. Most of our shows take place in public parks within the Portland metro area. We occasionally travel to perform (Nehalem, Hood River, McMinnville), and occasionally offer live-streamed online performances that are viewable from anywhere via the internet.
When does all this happen?
Our application and audition process starts in mid-February, with contract offers and casting occurring in mid-April/early May. Training for Apprentices and Interns begins the first week of June, and our performance season is mid-June through the end of August. We also hold the first two weekends of September for performances that need to be rescheduled due to heat, smoke, or other emergencies.
What is the time commitment?
The “OPS week” is Wednesday-Sunday afternoons & evenings. The week starts with a team meeting & training workshop on Wednesday afternoons/evenings, followed by performances on Thursday-Sunday evenings with a typical call time of 5pm. During the height of our season, Apprentices are scheduled for 3-4 performances a week, and Interns are scheduled for 1-2 performances a week. Matinee performances are rare.
Apprentices/Interns also spend time independently preparing their roles, attending short zoom “text sessions,” in fight/song/dance rehearsals, and meeting as a group 2-3 times per month to assist with company maintenance tasks such as sending out press releases, organizing props/costumes/scripts, assisting with laundry, or managing concessions inventory.
The busiest OPS Apprentice weeks are about 25-30 hrs/wk; a busy OPS Intern week is about 12-15hrs/wk. Travel time to & from performance sites can also extend this time commitment.
Apprentices/Interns also spend time independently preparing their roles, attending short zoom “text sessions,” in fight/song/dance rehearsals, and meeting as a group 2-3 times per month to assist with company maintenance tasks such as sending out press releases, organizing props/costumes/scripts, assisting with laundry, or managing concessions inventory.
The busiest OPS Apprentice weeks are about 25-30 hrs/wk; a busy OPS Intern week is about 12-15hrs/wk. Travel time to & from performance sites can also extend this time commitment.
Is this a paid position?
Yes -- Apprentices receive a stipend of $900 ($300/month in June-August). Intern compensation varies based on scheduled hours; most receive an average stipend of $225 ($75/month in June-August). Past Apprentices/Interns have also received grants from their college/university in support of their participation; talk to your career center to see if this option is offered at your school.
Will I be able to work a job along with the apprentice program?
Yes! It can be done. We strongly recommend that, if you are planning on keeping a job, that the job be part time and no more than 20-25 hours per week. Past Apprentices have successfully worked 20 hours per week without either the job or the program interfering with one another. However, you are still expected to commit to all program expectations, regardless of employment status.
Do I need to provide my own transportation?
Yes -- however, this does not necessarily mean that you will need to have access to a car. You are expected to arrive on time and prepared for all trainings, team meetings/work days, and performance calls. We have had apprentices in the past who have used public transportation and those who have used their own vehicles; both options have been effective. Carpooling with other Apprentices/Interns or company members has also become a common option in the past. We strongly recommend that Apprentices/Interns live within the Portland Metro area for the duration of the program.
What if I need to miss a performance?
If you know in advance that you will need to miss a performance, we can accommodate an absence. However, any shows that are missed will count as a "performance" in your 50:50 performer/crew split. Exceptions can be made for illness or emergencies -- people are more important than art, and we always want you to prioritize your safety.
What kinds of training will we receive?
Examples of past workshops include “Level 2” Text Work, Voice, Costuming, Stage Combat, Makeup Effects, Gender Presentation for Stage, Dialects, Improv, Career Panels, Physical Characterization, and more.
Why do an OPS Fest Apprenticeship/Internship?
Here’s what past Apprentices/Interns say --
“I felt extremely welcomed and encouraged by everyone that already had been in the company, and I also built some wonderful friendships with the A/I team as we all started our OPS journey together.”
“I appreciated how demanding each show was in terms of having to be fully present and having to really listen to everything and make bold, interesting choices. It was challenging, but I only grew from it.”
“[I learned] how to take ownership of my character in really tangible ways. I got to kind of be my own dramaturg and costume designer and director, and even in a normal show setting it's awesome to have that solid of a grasp on what the text gives me character-wise.”
“[OPS is] an incredibly welcoming, open and creative group that makes Shakespeare more accessible to audiences and so much more fun. OPS really brings the text to vivid life using historical performance techniques in a modern day context.”
“The OPS acting internship allows you to work with the company both as an actor and as part of the tech crew, easing you into the style and needs of the company. By the end of the season, you feel competent and empowered both on stage and off. It also connects you directly with other interns and apprentices, asking you to collaborate and support one another as you learn the ropes!”
“This Apprenticeship/Internship is a lot of work, but you get to meet a bunch of incredibly talented artists from many walks of life. We breathe new life into Shakespeare's works due to our diverse company.”
“I felt extremely welcomed and encouraged by everyone that already had been in the company, and I also built some wonderful friendships with the A/I team as we all started our OPS journey together.”
“I appreciated how demanding each show was in terms of having to be fully present and having to really listen to everything and make bold, interesting choices. It was challenging, but I only grew from it.”
“[I learned] how to take ownership of my character in really tangible ways. I got to kind of be my own dramaturg and costume designer and director, and even in a normal show setting it's awesome to have that solid of a grasp on what the text gives me character-wise.”
“[OPS is] an incredibly welcoming, open and creative group that makes Shakespeare more accessible to audiences and so much more fun. OPS really brings the text to vivid life using historical performance techniques in a modern day context.”
“The OPS acting internship allows you to work with the company both as an actor and as part of the tech crew, easing you into the style and needs of the company. By the end of the season, you feel competent and empowered both on stage and off. It also connects you directly with other interns and apprentices, asking you to collaborate and support one another as you learn the ropes!”
“This Apprenticeship/Internship is a lot of work, but you get to meet a bunch of incredibly talented artists from many walks of life. We breathe new life into Shakespeare's works due to our diverse company.”
How do I apply/audition?
Original Practice Shakespeare Festival practices a completely unique performance style and, as such, an introduction to that style is necessary before auditions. Here’s the breakdown:
- By February 14 -- Email Apprentice Coordinator Sullivan Mackintosh (she/they) at apprentices@opsfest.org to get on our “interested” list. This ensures you get all further needed information.
- February/March -- Watch our introductory workshop video, or attend a live session. Learn the basics of our approach to see if you’d like to give it a try yourself.
- March/April -- Sign up & attend at least 2-3 free evening/weekend “playgroups” -- opportunities to try out scenes with other applicants and current company members. We typically hold both zoom and in-person playgroups, and strongly recommend that applicants attend at least one in-person playgroup.
- By March 31 -- Submit your Apprentice/Intern Application. Your application includes a headshot, resume, and online application form, available [here]. (link to Application form)
- Mid-late April -- Sign up & attend your audition: The audition will consist of a full unrehearsed performance of a play. An audition form (separate from your Apprentice/Intern application form) is also required. Top applicants will be asked to interview with the Apprentice Coordinator and 1-2 other Company Members. Interviews are conducted over zoom.
What if I cannot attend the audition?
It is very important that you be able to attend the audition in person. If you absolutely cannot, and still wish to apply for the program, please contact Sullivan Mackintosh at apprentices@opsfest.org for alternative audition arrangements.