Apprenticeships
Applications for Seattle Rep's 2025/26 Season WHPATP cohort closed on March 31, 2025. Check back in early 2026 for information about the 2026/27 Season.
2025/26 Season Apprenticeships include Directing/Artistic Programs, Lighting Design, Production Management, Scenic Paint, and Stage Management (2 positions).
TERMS
- Duration: Seattle Rep’s 2025/26 Season runs August 2025 – June 2026. Apprenticeship contract start/end dates will vary by department but will be about 2,000 hours total. Exact dates will be finalized between the Apprentice and the respective department.
- Compensation: All Apprenticeships are paid in alignment with Seattle minimum wage, which is currently $20.76/hour.
- Apprentices will receive paid accrued sick time, holidays, personal days, and ORCA transit card/parking benefit.
- Apprentices should expect to work on site. Some work from home may be offered. Find Seattle Rep's current health and safety protocols here.
- In addition to hands-on training in their chosen field, Apprentices have the opportunity to participate in:
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Rep Seminars – Seattle Rep will offer Seminar rotations throughout the theater, covering all departments. This provides a comprehensive overview of the workings of the theater in its entirety, as well as the specificities of these roles within a regional theater model. (30 hours)
- Development
- Marketing
- Communications
- Finance
- Arts Education and Community
- Arts Administration
- Facilities
- Artistic
Shadowing Experience – Seattle Rep will offer shadowing and reflection opportunities through local theater partners so that Apprentices can network within the market, as well as experience comparative and contrasting work experiences within the industry.
Management Training – Seattle Rep will provide strategic management training and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion training.
Leadership Training – Seattle Rep will partner with Seattle Central College for its leadership course, “Leadership and No-Blame Problem Solving.”
Social Emotion Learning – Seattle Rep will provide coursework related to Social Emotional Learning: self-regulation, self-care, emotional expression, empathy, and negotiation.
OSHA Training – 10-Hour training and certification; additional web trainings
Job-specific Classes – Guided by supervisors, WHPATP Apprentices will attend classes and conferences specific to their departments, as provided by the IATSE Training Trust.
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- Visit our WHPATP FAQ for more information.
2025/26 Apprenticeship Options
The Directing/Artistic Programs Apprenticeship provides an opportunity to assist leading directors in the field and be part of the day-to-day life of a regional theater. Time is split between the rehearsal room and administrative experiences, making it a unique and holistic opportunity for emerging directors interested in artistic administration and leadership along with casting and new play development. The Lighting Design Apprenticeship provides hands-on experience working with lighting designers, production staff, and technicians to create and implement lighting designs for theatrical productions. The apprentice will gain practical skills in drafting, cue building, and design implementation, as well as insight into how lighting contributes to storytelling and overall aesthetics. This position offers opportunities to assist on mainstage shows, new play workshops, and interdepartmental events, providing a well-rounded foundation for a career in theatrical lighting design. The Production Management Apprenticeship will assist the Producing Director, Producing Associate, Company Manager, Production Contract Manager, and Artistic Programs Manager, this Apprenticeship provides hands-on experience in supporting the production process for Seattle Rep shows from start to finish, liaising and interfacing with artists and making them feel welcome and supported at our theater, and producing new workshops along with the work that goes on our stage. The Apprentice will also support members of the Production Department in various tasks and projects associated with mainstage shows, new play workshops, and interdepartmental events as well as the general operation of the theater. The Apprentice will experience the inner workings of all areas of production and learn the ins and outs of various theatrical union contracts employed by the theater. Seattle Rep is seeking a Scenic Paint Apprentice for the 2025/26 Season. This Apprenticeship provides hands-on experience in scenic painting techniques used to bring stage designs to life. The Apprentice will work closely with scenic artists, designers, and production staff, learning how to translate scenic concepts into physical surfaces and textures. This position offers the opportunity to assist on mainstage shows, new play workshops, and special events, gaining a deep understanding of how scenic painting contributes to storytelling and theatrical design. The Stage Management Apprenticeship (2 positions available) provides hands-on experience in the coordination and execution of all aspects of a production, from rehearsal to performance. The Apprentice will work closely with stage managers, assistant stage managers, and production staff, learning essential skills in scheduling, communication, and leadership. This role offers opportunities to assist on mainstage shows, new play workshops, and special events, gaining insight into how stage management ensures the smooth operation of each production.Directing/Artistic Programs
Lighting Design
Production Management
Scenic Paint
Stage Management (2 Positions)