2 minute read
Interships
Hands-On Career Experience is Priceless for Future Theatre Professionals
During her first internship out of college, Kenzie Currie fetched coffee. By the end of her stint at a Chicago theater this past summer, she had worked her way up in stage management to tackle a few more responsibilities.
Kenzie CURRIE
“There were so many interns, there wasn’t much I could be a part of,” she said. “I didn’t mind it because you have to pay your dues.”
But when she landed an internship with The Naples Players, everything kicked into high gear.
“The Naples Players internship is very much opposite from that,” she said. “Down here they believe in you and pour into you and give you opportunities.”
From the beginning, Kenzie, a 22-year-old graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, was given a hefty role, helping to train students in the KidzAct productions. She did so well, she was able to snag a full-time job with The Naples Players before the end of her 9-month internship. She now works as the Education Stage Manager, a combination of positions that the staff designed to fit her unique skills. Kenzie said she’s excited for the prospect of making Naples her home.
“I love it here and I love the staff here,” she said.
Chris Riley, also 22, graduated from Western Michigan University last year with a degree in theater design and production. His gig with The Chris RILEY
Naples Players is his first internship, and rather than doing work as a production assistant, he was given the reins on a handful of shows out of the gate.
“We did have to start off slow to prove ourselves,” he said. “But they treat us all as valuable members, and they don’t have to hold our hands.”
– Chris Riley,
TNP INTERN
After working alongside Resident Lighting Designer Craig Walck learning the ropes for stage lighting, Chris was tasked with designing the shows for the remaining five months of his internship, including the show Always a Bridesmaid.
“The staff likes to say it’s a great stepping stone from educational theater to professional theater, and it’s true,” Chris said of the internship. “They’re willing to let you make mistakes and teach you things you don’t know. I don’t think I would have gotten that experience somewhere else.”
“On top of the hands-on experience, interns with The Naples Players are paid and receive free housing within walking distance of the theater— a major perk, Chris said.”
