We are now accepting applications for 2026 Acting and Tech Apprenticeships!
🚨 All potential Apprentices and a parent/guardian are required to attend one of the sessions. 🚨
Step 1 - Attend an Information Session.
We want to make sure you know what to expect and what will be expected of you...giving you everything you (and your parents) need to know. You'll have a chance to discuss the program, ask questions, and learn whether this is the program for you.
Remaining Information Sessions
March 14th (10:30am - 11:30am) SCSU
April 18th (10:30am - 11:30am) SCSU
Where
Southern Connecticut State University
Lyman Center Drama Lab Lyman Center
501 Crescent St, New Haven, CT 06515
All potential Scholars and a parent/guardian are required to attend one of the sessions. Please email sarah@ElmShakespeare.org which session you will be attending.
Step 2 - Submit Your Application
Option 1: Mail Hard Copy
Elm Shakespeare Company
P.O. Box 206029
New Haven, CT 06515
Option 2: Email Submissions:
Step 3 - Audition/Interview
Saturday, May 2, 2026 - 9:00AM-12:00PM
Email sarah@elmshakespeare.org to schedule your hour long time slot
Step 4 - Acceptance
We will notify you whether or not you have been accepted by mid May.
What to Expect
The Apprentice Company is a pre-professional training program for the serious student of theatre, considering making it their profession.
An essential part of our summer company, Apprentices work alongside actors, directors, designers, and production personnel during our Free Shakespeare in the Park summer production, gaining invaluable hands-on experience and making life-long friendships.
Apprentices work HARD, but it's the hardest summer that you will ever love. Scholars are paid a $500 stipend to help with travel and food expenses.
Choose Your Path… Hone Your Skills
Chooses a track: Technical or Performance.
Tech Apprentices are essential parts of our production team, and work daily to make the production a reality. Their mentors are the designers, electricians, and technical director, their work includes set construction, lighting and sound load-in, and running crew.
Acting Apprentices perform as full company members in the production in a small role, as well as create their own final showcase. Acting Scholars may also elect to earn credit towards joining the professional union of actors, by joining the Actor's Equity Association Equity Candidate Membership Program.
Hands-on Real World Experience
Apprentices not only work alongside the professionals, they get one-on-one mentorship by artists and craftsmen at the top of their game. These connections can lead to professional work down the road.
Our Apprentices go on to successful careers in Theatre departments at universities around the country.
Our Apprentices go on to work in the professional theatre, being paid for the skills and professionalism they learn in the park.
Our Apprentices take the confidence they gain from the responsibility they are given to be successful in whatever comes next in their lives.
Professional Level Training
In the first week of this program Apprentices participate in master classes taught by members of the professional company. Workshops in set design, lights, sound, costumes, props, and stage management, as well as voice, Shakespearean text, stage combat, dance, and movement help prepare Apprentices for the their work on the summer production. The skillset they develop over the summer goes beyond what they may learn in a purely academic environment, setting them up for success as they return to high school or embark on their college journey.
“I really like acting and spending time with other actors. I learned a lot about teamwork and how to work with others.”
— Brian Lozano, Mauro-Sheridan student
What a Residency Might Look Like...
2 Weeks. Full Immersion. Shakespeare on Its Feet.The “Camp” Model
10 sessions, 2 weeks, 30-40 hours per week
Up to 42 Students
Classes in Voice, Movement, and Discovering Shakespeare
30 minute production of play (1 play per 14 students)
10 Weeks to Rehearse, Create, and Perform Shakespeare with Purpose.The “Residency” Model
25 sessions, 10 weeks, 2-6 hours per week
Up to 50 students
Project Learning Centered on a Production of a Play
40 minute final performance (1 play per 14 students)
1 Week. Focused Work. Immediate Shakespeare Impact.
The “Intensive” Model
1-3 Sessions 2-6 hours total
Up to 35 students Ages 10 and up
On your feet playshop - OR -
Lecture Demo Class
Questions about our Residencies?
We're available by phone or text 203.392.6532
Email: Sarah@ElmShakespeare.org