Uptown Players 2026 Summer Internships
Uptown Players is an award-winning non-profit theater company in Dallas, TX, that presents professional theater dedicated to creating a positive public awareness and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community through the performing arts. Our diverse productions feature everything from world premieres to classic musicals with a unique Uptown Players twist.
The Uptown Players Internship Program offers a rich and challenging experience for qualified college and graduate level students who are preparing for careers in professional theatre, as well as early career professionals with a range of experience from beginning to advanced skill levels. Interns have an opportunity to refine their skills through close interaction with production staff and artists. Because Uptown Players functions with a relatively small staff, interns are valuable additions to our staff. Student interns will be expected to organize their time well, communicate efficiently and appropriately with others, respond to requests in a timely manner, and present themselves in a professional and focused manner at all activities.
Internships are entry-level positions with a variety of tasks, allowing the student to gain experience in a professional theatre. Increased responsibilities during internship period depend upon a student's performance and the needs of the theatre. Housing is not available as part of our internship program.
Requirements
• Possess the knowledge and experience necessary to intern successfully in the theatre
• Be 18 years of age, socially mature, and self-confident
• Be able to digest new information quickly and apply it productively
• Be consistent and dependable in their work habits, as well as self-reliant and flexible
• Possess good communication skills
• Enjoy multi-tasking and creative problem-solving
• Work comfortably and effectively in a highly collaborative environment
Benefits
• Gain invaluable hands-on experience in a professional theater setting.
• Professional development and networking opportunities
• Possibility for academic credit, depending on school requirements.
• Complimentary tickets to Uptown Players productions.
• A monetary stipend based on the number of hours worked per production
To apply for an Uptown Players internship, please visit https://bit.ly/UPIntern26 to submit your resume and areas of interest by March 2nd. Candidates will be notified by March 15 if selected for an interview. Interviews will take place between March 20 and March 27. Candidates will be notified no later than April 3 for the summer season.
Interns must be available from June 13 through August 16, 2026
(Some interns may start as early as June 1 and end August 30 if available)
Marketing and PR Internship
Reports to: Director of Marketing
Internship duration: A minimum of 12 hours per week with some evening and weekend work.
Description
We are seeking a creative, motivated, and organized individual to join our team as a Marketing and Public Relations Intern. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in arts marketing while contributing to the mission of a critically acclaimed regional theater.
Key responsibilities
The Marketing and PR Intern will assist with various promotional and communications efforts. Specific duties include:
• Social media: Assist with creating and scheduling engaging content for various social media platforms to promote upcoming shows and events.
• Email marketing: Help create and distribute weekly newsletters and other promotional email campaigns to the Uptown Players audience.
• Promotional materials: Assist with the development, creation, and distribution of promotional materials, including flyers, posters, and digital graphics.
• Community outreach: Support community engagement efforts by assisting with the distribution of marketing materials and other outreach initiatives.
• Event support: Provide assistance during special events, such as opening nights and other show-related activities.
• Website updates: Assist with updating and maintaining the Uptown Players website.
• Content creation: Participate in creative brainstorming sessions and help produce original marketing content.
Qualifications
• A strong interest in theater and a passion for Uptown Players' mission of promoting LGBTQIA+ representation and community engagement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with social media platforms and a general understanding of marketing principles.
• Creative and able to contribute fresh ideas.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and capable of multitasking effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with graphic design tools is a plus.
• A team player who can take direction and work collaboratively.
Stage Management Internship
Reports to: Equity Stage Manager
Internship duration: Approximately 30-40 hours per week for a 5-week period
Description
Uptown Players seeks an organized, proactive, and detail-oriented college intern to join our stage management team. This internship offers hands-on experience by assisting stage managers throughout the entire production process, from pre-rehearsal prep to opening night. This role is ideal for students with a passion for live theatre, strong communication skills, and a desire to learn about the inner workings of a professional production from the ground up. The Stage Management Intern will gain valuable experience in a fast-paced, collaborative, and inclusive environment.
Responsibilities:
• Assist with pre-production duties, including creating contact sheets, preparing rehearsal materials, and organizing props.
• Support stage managers throughout the rehearsal process, such as recording blocking, taking line notes, and distributing daily rehearsal reports.
• Participate in production meetings with directors and designers to learn how technical and design elements are integrated into the show.
• Provide support during technical rehearsals and the show run as a member of the backstage crew. This may include serving as a deck chief, prop runner, or dresser.
• Assist with show maintenance, including tracking props and costumes and performing other duties as needed.
• Serve as a professional and positive liaison between the cast, crew, and artistic staff.
Qualifications:
• Currently enrolled in a college or university program, preferably with a theatre concentration.
• Familiarity with the theatre production process.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• An interest in Uptown Players' mission to present theatre with contemporary and alternative lifestyle themes.
• Must have evening and weekend availability during tech week and the run of the show.
Scenic/Props Internship
Reports to: Master Carpenter
Internship duration: A minimum of 60 hours per production worked, with flexible scheduling Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m..
Description The Scenic/Props Intern will gain hands-on experience in bringing a theatrical production's visual world to life. This internship provides practical training in scenic construction and artistry, from initial build to final touches, working directly under the supervision of the Master Carpenter. The intern will participate in the complete production process, with opportunities to work as backstage crew during technical week and performances.
Responsibilities
• Construction: Assist with the construction of scenic and prop elements for various mainstage productions.
• Scenic Painting: Help with base painting constructed pieces, with opportunities for detail and finish painting for those with advanced skills.
• Prop Management: Maintain inventory of scenic and prop pieces in storage and assist with organizing and tracking props for specific productions.
• Backstage Crew: Serve on the running crew for at least one production, which may involve shifting scenery and running props during performances.
• Production Support: Attend production meetings and technical rehearsals to gain a comprehensive understanding of the full theatrical process.
Qualifications
• Prior education or experience in scenic design or construction is a plus.
• Experience with power tools and a workshop environment is preferred.
• Must have a strong work ethic and be willing and able to learn new skills.
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Strong interest in technical theater and a desire for hands-on experience
Lighting Internship
Reports to: Master Electrician
Internship duration: A minimum of 50 hours per production over a 5-week period
Description The Lighting Intern works closely with the Master Electrician and resident Lighting Designer to support all aspects of theatrical lighting production for Uptown Players' summer season. This hands-on, fast-paced internship is ideal for a student pursuing technical theater, lighting design, or a related field who is eager to gain practical, real-world experience in a professional theater environment. Interns will contribute meaningfully to the production process while building a strong foundation of skills in entertainment lighting.
Key Responsibilities
• Assist with the full production cycle for shows, including load-in, hang, focus, and strike.
• Help maintain and organize the lighting inventory, including fixtures and cables.
• Participate in all light calls, working with the Master Electrician to rig, focus, and gel lighting instruments.
• Support lighting designers during technical rehearsals and cueing sessions.
• Program and operate the lighting console and/or follow spots for tech and performances.
• Attend production meetings to collaborate with the artistic and technical teams.
• Perform other production-related duties as assigned.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this internship, the successful candidate will:
• Develop a deeper understanding of the theatrical production process, from design to performance.
• Become familiar with standard industry equipment, including lighting consoles, fixtures, and cabling.
• Gain hands-on experience with lighting installation, focusing, and operation.
• Enhance their collaborative and communication skills by working with a professional artistic and technical team.
• Experience the demands and rewards of live theater production, gaining practical experience that will be valuable for their future career.
Qualifications
• College student studying technical theater, lighting design, or a related field.
• Strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a collaborative environment.
• Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, particularly during load-in, tech week, and performances.
• Prior experience with light rigging is a plus, but not required.
• Must be able to lift and move equipment and be comfortable working at heights on a ladder or lift.
Costume Internship
Reports to: Wardrobe Manager
Internship duration: A minimum of 25 hours per week for a 5-week period
Description
The Costume Shop Intern will assist the Resident Costume Designer in all aspects of costuming for Uptown Players’ main stage productions. This hands-on, educational opportunity is ideal for an aspiring costumer, designer, or theater technician to gain professional experience in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Key Responsibilities
• Assist the costume staff with the preparation of costumes, which may include pulling from stock, organizing, and preparing costumes for rehearsals and performances.
• Perform basic stitching, hand sewing, and alterations as assigned.
• Support the Resident Costume Designer with historical and contemporary research for productions.
• Attend production meetings, technical rehearsals, and previews, as required.
• Run shows as a dresser backstage, including assisting with quick changes (additional stipend may be involved).
• Assist with the organization and maintenance of the costume shop and costume storage.
• Handle production laundry, including washing, drying, ironing, and steaming costumes.
• Assist with other costume-related tasks as needed, such as sourcing materials or tracking inventory.
• Strike costumes after the show's run is complete.
Qualifications
• An interest in costume design, wardrobe management, or technical theater.
• Basic knowledge of sewing and garment construction is a plus.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• The ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a high-pressure environment.
• A proactive attitude and a willingness to learn.
• A commitment to upholding Uptown Players' values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Must be able to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends for rehearsals and performances.
Hair and Makeup Internship
Reports to: Wig, Hair, Make-up Designer
Internship duration: A minimum of 15 hours per week, with flexible scheduling
Description
Uptown Players is seeking a talented and motivated college student for a Hair and Makeup Internship. This hands-on opportunity provides a valuable chance to learn about theatrical hair design and makeup application in a professional environment, working under the guidance of our Hair and Makeup Supervisor. The intern will gain practical experience in various theatrical styles and techniques while contributing to our mission of creating transformative and inclusive productions.
Responsibilities
• Assist the Hair and Makeup Supervisor in all aspects of theatrical hair and makeup design and execution for productions.
• Aid with makeup application, wig styling, and hairstyling for all cast members, for everything from basic looks to special effects.
• Help maintain continuity of performers' looks throughout the run of a show.
• Assist with the cleaning, organization, and sanitation of all hair and makeup tools and products.
• Support the overall production team by assisting with costume, quick changes, and other backstage needs as required.
Skills and qualifications
• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a college or university program focusing on theater, cosmetology, or a related field.
• A basic understanding of theatrical makeup application and hairstyling techniques.
• Demonstrated passion for theater and dedication to learning about the technical aspects of performance.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, particularly regarding continuity and hygiene.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative, and team-oriented environment.
• Flexibility to work evening and weekend hours during technical rehearsals and performances.
Audio Internship
Reports to: Director of Production
Internship duration: A minimum of 40 hours per production over a 5-week period
Description An audio internship at Uptown Players offers hands-on, professional experience in theatrical sound design and engineering for qualified college students. As an audio intern, you will play an integral role in the production process, from rehearsals through opening night.
Responsibilities
• Rehearsals: Attend rehearsals to take sound cue notes and work with the Music Director to coordinate orchestra setups for musicals.
• Production: Assist with sound cue creation and editing, and program the Midas M32 soundboard before technical rehearsals for each production.
• Technical Rehearsals and Performances: Work closely with the audio team to assign and test body mics for performers. • Load-in and Load-out: Assist with the installation and breakdown of all audio equipment.
• Troubleshooting: Help monitor audio levels and troubleshoot any technical issues that arise during rehearsals and performances.
• Team Collaboration: Collaborate with the full production team, including directors, stage managers, and designers.
Qualifications
• Current enrollment in a college or university program, preferably with coursework in audio engineering, sound design, or a related technical theatre field.
• Strong interest in live theatrical sound design and engineering.
• Good communication and organizational skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and the ability to work calmly under pressure.
• Flexibility to work varied hours, including nights and weekends, especially during technical week and performances.
