Learn the inner workings of professional dance

Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance is offering university-level students an exciting summer opportunity! Participants will learn the skills involved in company and production management for a non-profit dance company, and will shadow and assist our artistic, production and management staff.

This is a remarkable opportunity for students who are looking to broaden their knowledge of concert dance, theater production, arts management or event management and marketing. Or all of the above! Not for the faint of heart, this intensive program offers a deep dive for any dancer hoping to start their own company or create choreography on a professional level. It is also a great introduction for theater production and arts management students.

The Terpsicorps experiential learning internship program allows students to immerse themselves in the creative process. Participants are given a primary focus depending on their skill set and goals, but everyone gets to try their hand at all aspects of the production. You will shadow our staff members, learning by experience what it means to be a hands-on member of the team.

Dates for the entire program are June 17 - July 28. That said, we can be flexible for students who are unable to commit to all of the dates in person. There are also optional tasks that start earlier and participants can choose to be a part of these opportunities remotely.

Participants will be assigned a primary area of focus, but will be involved in all aspects of the project.

• Rehearsal - Be an integral part of the dance side of the creative process. Some tasks will include note-taking and running music for rehearsals, inclusion in tech meetings and helping communicate needs between staff members and dancers. You may also be called upon to help facilitate carpooling and housing needs or run occasional errands. This position will shadow the artistic staff of Terpsicorps, gaining knowledge and experience from professional dancers and choreographers.

• Production - Become immersed in the day to day operations surrounding the production. Some tasks will include load-in and strike of props and set pieces, assisting with the creation of props and set pieces, working backstage during the show and assisting the production manager, stage manager, wardrobe manager and/or lighting designer. You will work with and learn closely from experienced technical staff to strengthen your knowledge of the run of a professional show, and to gain experience in a touring capacity with performances in both Asheville and Winston Salem, NC.  

• Arts Management and Marketing - Shadow Terpsicorps’ managing director to discover what it takes to keep a non-profit organization healthy. Tasks may include assisting in the organization of volunteers, front of house, events and fundraising efforts. Additionally you will be a part of the marketing effort, helping with social media, print and gorilla marketing strategies.

Some perks of the program

• Free of charge, hands on immersive learning experience

• Professional experience for your resume

• Letters of reference for future job opportunities

• Free housing in both Asheville and Winston-Salem for those from out of town

• Free dance classes with the company dancers (if you choose)

• Get to know the dancers and witness their day to day lives

• Networking opportunities with dancers from across the country

• Some participants could additionally see stage time if the need arises (dependent on skill level)

Interested in acquiring the skills and experiences that come with the Terpsicorps experiential internship program?

and follow up with an email to Michele Bryan at mbryan@terpsicorps.org.

Include 2 letters of reference, a bio and a letter of interest stating:

• why you are interested in the program

• how you think it can further your goals

• what you think you can contribute to the program