Stage Management Intern - 2026

The Contemporary American Theater Festival at Shepherd University is welcoming applications for the position of Stage Management Intern. CATF, a LORT D summer festival and leading producer of contemporary plays, is dedicated to telling diverse stories and developing new American theater. The festival premieres or produces multiple plays per season in 3-4 venues. CATF is committed to supporting the unique needs of new work while fostering an environment of fun and company community. Located 90 minutes from DC, CATF makes its home in one of America’s coolest small towns, Shepherdstown, WV.

Interns assist the AEA Stage Manager (SM) and/or Assistant Stage Manager (ASM) with the daily execution of rehearsals, either in repertory, or for a single show, depending on venue placement.  Rehearsal duties may include: assisting with the creation or maintenance of schedules and tracking paperwork, setting and tracking furniture and props, and/or running sound cues via Qlab.  During Tech and performances, the SM Intern will work backstage at the direction of the SM or ASM and will be responsible to ensuring the correct placement of props, furniture, and execution of scene changes, either by themselves or with a run crew (based on show needs). Some previous experience in Stage Management, the ability to lift/carry 25lbs and safely navigate darkened backstage areas is necessary.

Ideal candidates for the Internship Company are team players: positive, flexible, eager to learn, work collaboratively, and value and practice anti-racist and anti-oppressive (ARAO) efforts. Click here to learn about CATF’s ARAO Values

Position is seasonal, from late May (start date varies by show) to August 4. All staff and interns are provided free air-conditioned housing within walking distance of the theaters and workspaces (also air conditioned) 1-2 meals per day during tech, and free use of university gym, pool, and laundry facilities.

Interested applicants should submit a resume and three references (either with your resume, OR in the box below). A cover letter and relevant portfolio (website, PDF, or shared drive link) are also appreciated. If selected for an interview, applicants will be asked to submit examples of previous stage management work and/or a basic portfolio if not submitted with the job application. We typically receive a high volume of Stage Management Intern applications, so please be aware that process may take an extended period of time, however
 
Interviews typically begin in early February. Interviews will continue, and job offers will start being made, in late February through April, depending on the number of candidates. We typically receive a high volume of Stage Management Intern applications, so please be aware that process may take an extended period of time, however, this posting will remain open until all positions are filled.

Please visit www.catf.org to learn more about us and our upcoming summer season.

CATF is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality, ethnicity, Veteran, or ability status. CATF makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. If you have any questions or need assistance completing the application, please email us at [email protected]