WHAT IT IS: 2nd Gen’s apprenticeship program is designed to help up and coming theatre artists gain professional experience, build their resumes, and make connections that will lead to future employment in their chosen field.
Each apprenticeship* lasts for the duration of one show (depending on the specialty, this can include production meetings, auditions, rehearsals, and/or performances). Each apprentice will be paired with a specific Production team member for the duration of their apprenticeship.
*PLEASE NOTE: The Emerging Design/Tech Residency is a full-year program, working on four productions.
APPRENTICE FEEDBACK
“Doing an apprenticeship at Second Generation not only gave me an opportunity to better get my foot in the door with theatre in Buffalo. It also gave me the opportunity to learn while getting paid for it. Since then I have worked not only at Second Generation but also at a multitude of theatres in the area as a result of this experience.”
– JC Hartloff, Props Designer
“I was first introduced to Second Generation through their production of Cabaret in the summer of 2022. I was going into my senior year of college, which was my first experience working with a professional theatre company in any capacity. Second Generation was the first company to offer a costume designer position to me after college. It is such a generous space for emerging artists to flourish and learn. The trust and support that flows through this company is phenomenal. As a result of working with Second Generation, I have received connections to the local film industry and other professional theatre companies.”
– Amaya Mack, Costume Designer
WHO CAN APPLY: Undergraduates, recent college graduates, and early career professionals.
To be eligible for consideration, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old by the start of the program
- Be able to commit to scheduled rehearsals/meetings/work sessions
- Reside in, or be able to attend rehearsals and meetings in Buffalo, NY
- Have a strong desire to work in one or two of the departments offered for the Apprenticeship and express this interest in the application
- Carefully read through the instructions and submit a thoughtfully completed application
- COLLEGE STUDENTS cannot apply without a recommendation from a current professor/department chair
COMPENSATION
Pay: $500 stipend for one project/production. Credits: Students currently enrolled at University at Buffalo, Niagara University, Buffalo State College, and Fredonia can receive 1-3 credit hours based on department specifications. Perks: Professional resume credit, familiarity with working professionals in Buffalo theatre, free tickets to the 2nd Gen season, and hands-on experience.
Acceptance into the program also includes transportation stipend as needed.
HOW TO APPLY
The application process will involve:
-Filling out an online Employment Application Form (see link below)
– Attaching one PDF file containing a one-page cover letter and a one-page resume with references.
– Some positions may require an additional portfolio attachment or link (preferred).
The Apprenticeship Program applications will be considered ona rolling basis for the duration of the current season, or until each position has been filled. Early applications are encouraged.
Undergraduate students: you must attach a letter of recommendation from your department head or a professor to the application form in order for your application will be considered.
COVER LETTER
– One (1) page. Indicate availability and area(s) of interest. Applications with start and end dates significantly outside of the dates provided below will not be considered.
URINETOWN 9/15-11/10
MAMMA MIA! 12/1-2/2
GOD OF CARNAGE 1/25-3/16
PURE GLITTER 4/1-5/18
RESUME
– One (1) page. Include telephone number, e-mail address, education (post high school, if applicable), work and internship experience (with dates). Multiple skills can be combined into one resume, or several different resumes can be attached. These can be combined into your single PDF submission.
REFERENCES
– Provide contact information for three references. Indicate your relationship to each reference, their telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses. Applications listing “References upon request” will not be considered.
Questions? Email [email protected]. No phone calls, please.