Stage Management Apprentice

ABOUT MILWAUKEE REP

Milwaukee Rep is the largest performing arts organization in Wisconsin in terms of audiences served and one of the largest professional theaters in the country. Each year we welcome nearly 300,000 people at 700 performances of 12 productions across 3 unique stages ranging from Broadway musicals to Shakespeare to American Classics and New Works that are entertaining, inclusive, and impactful. Come join us at Milwaukee Rep where we value inclusion, innovation, and quality and where you will have an impact in helping us to fulfill our mission to ignite positive change in our community. It is important that our hiring practices reflect our ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion and we strongly encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups. We are further committed to considering applicants who are well-rounded but do not fulfill every qualification.

 

Position: Stage Management Apprentice

Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt

Department: Stage Management

Employment Type: Seasonal, Full Time, Benefits Eligible

Reports To: Associate PM/Production Stage Manager

Start Dates: August 10, September 8, or October 12, 2026

Compensation: $14.00/hour

Deadline to Apply: May 17, 2026

 

POSITION SUMMARY

The Stage Management Apprentice (SMA) positions are 3 seasonal positions that are an integral part of the Stage Management Department at Milwaukee Rep. SM Apprentices work and learn alongside the contingent of AEA Stage Managers and Assistant Stage Managers during the prep, rehearsal, tech, and performance processes for productions across multiple venues. SM Apprentices will receive hands-on learning in stage management processes for various sizes of productions, as well as learning how to maintain a stage management department on a day-to-day basis.

Major Duties and Responsibilities Include:

• Work with AEA Stage Managers and Assistant Stage Managers to prep, rehearse, tech, and occasionally run Milwaukee Rep productions and events.
• Work with Associate Production Manager/Production Stage Manager to maintain stage management department resources, including but not limited to rehearsal hall spaces, performance spaces, general supplies, and paperwork.
• Assist AEA SMs and ASMs with ensuring adherence to LORT/AEA work rules and general safety practices.
• 2 of the 3 SMA tracks will work with young performers on A Christmas Carol.
• Other duties as assigned.

SCHEDULE

This position follows the rehearsal schedule for assigned productions. Hours include evenings, weekends, and some holidays. There are 3 seasonal positions available with differing schedules:

• August 10, 2026 to May 9, 2027
• September 8, 2026 to April 18, 2027
• October 12, 2026 to January 24, 2027

REQUIREMENTS OF THE POSITION

Technical Knowledge and Experience:

• Stage management experience working in an educational or small professional/non-professional theater environment.
• Desire to continue learning and developing stage management skills through deep immersion in the inner workings of a large regional theater.
• This is an educational position and does not assume an extensive depth of experience; a desire to learn, a keen attention to detail, the ability to self-motivate, multitask, work in stressful conditions, and adapt quickly are most important.
• Computer proficient (MS Word and Excel on Macs and PCs)

 

Milwaukee Rep Values Employees Who:

• Communicate well with a diverse group of colleagues.
• Demonstrate an aptitude and eagerness to learn new skills and processes when necessary.
• Solve problems and engage in creative thinking about challenges individually and in a group environment.
• Are able to accept and incorporate feedback.
• Have excellent interpersonal, teamwork, and diplomacy skills.
• Have the ability to be self-directed and take initiative.
• Demonstrate a commitment to our mission, and core values both in the workplace and in our community.

 

Physical Conditions:

The physical conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to lift at least 30 lbs.
• Must be able to perform physical activities such as, but not limited to lifting, bending, standing, sitting, and brisk walking.
• Must be able to climb stairs.

Milwaukee Repertory Theater is committed to creating a culturally diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.