TheatreWings FAQ
What is the best way to find out more about the program?
There are several ways to find out more. In addition to the information found on the website, you can contact one of the TheatreWings staff members to ask more questions. You can contact current students and ask for their insight as well. Just call the Production Office at 577-0868.
Who is qualified to be in the TheatreWings program?
Any student currently enrolled in High School and maintaining a B or higher average that has an interest in Theatre is qualified to apply for the program.
What is the application process?
Each student should fill out the application form, complete the required one page essay, have their teacher complete the teacher recommendation form and have their parents fill out the parents agreement form. Once these are completed and returned to Charleston Stage Company, an interview will be conducted before each student is accepted into the program.
What will be required of me as a TheatreWings apprentice?
- Weekly work crews at the scene and costume shops.
- Production experience on 2 shows each season as a run crew member, stage manager, light board operator or sound technician.
- Performance experience through apprentice productions.
- Outings and social gatherings.
Is it a summer program?
No, it is a year round program with summer performance opportunities and training camps. We prefer to have students start the program as freshmen and stay with the program for 4 years to gain the most experience and knowledge.
How much time will I be expected to spend working for Charleston Stage Company during a year?
- Apprentices will be expected to be at the shop one afternoon each week from 4pm until 6:15pm from mid-August through mid-May putting in a total of 75 hours of shop work each year.
- Apprentices are expected to serve on at least 2 run crews each season. This commitment includes attendance at all technical and dress rehearsals at the theatre and all performances of each show. This is typically a 2 to 4 week commitment for each show. Each apprentice is also expected to attend two load-ins and strikes (when scenery is taken down and moved to our scene shop) for their assigned production, and at least one other.
- Apprentices will attend a weeklong training camp held during the third week of June each summer. This week will focus on performance and technical training.
What about safety working as an apprentice?
As in all situations, working in a scene shop or backstage at a theatre can present safety and health concerns. Apprentices will be using power tools ONLY AFTER receiving proper training. The shops and theatre are filled with dust and pollen, which can aggravate allergies. Students should take proper precautions if this is an issue. Apprentices will be expected to wear appropriate footwear (no sandals, bare feet, or open toed shoes) to avoid injury. Apprentices will be required to wear appropriate work clothing at all times and inappropriate attire is decided upon by the staff. During the course of a day, Apprentices may be exposed to various paint products, cleaning supplies and adhesives. Precautions will be taken by the staff to ensure the safety of all Apprentices.
Will I have to provide anything?
Each Student is required to bring a notebook and writing utensils with them to all Wings crews and events. In addition, they must bring a "mag" light or mini flashlight with them to all performances and rehearsals. All students must acquire their own crew clothes that meet the requirements to work backstage and each student must wear this attire to all rehearsals and performances.
Is there a cost or fee for the program?
No, the TheatreWings Program is free for all participating students. This is made possible by grants from the Charleston County School Systems and by contributions from parents of current and former students. If you would like to help fund the program please contact Charleston Stage Company at (843) 577-5967.
How do I find out more?
One of the best ways to learn more about Charleston Stage’s TheatreWings program is to shadow a current TheatreWings apprentice backstage during performances at the various theatres. For shadowing information contact Stefanie Christensen at (843) 577-0868 or by email at spirch@charlestonstage.com.
