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NextGen Arts Admin Apprentice Program

The Long Wharf Theatre NextGen Arts Admin Apprentice program is a leadership development initiative designed for early-career professionals. Long Wharf Theatre is committed to a vision of “theatre is for everyone.” This program is designed to usher in the next generation of art administrators. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds and demographics to apply as we work to build a community of administrators that reflects the diversity of our world.

Participants (two) will engage in an apprenticeship within the marketing, front of house, and external relations departments, gaining hands-on experience while receiving paid professional development opportunities both within Long Wharf Theatre and beyond. In addition to their apprenticeship roles, apprentices will take part in monthly professional development seminars, bi-weekly cohort check-ins, and an to explore and achieve their unique learning objectives. Through this comprehensive program, apprentices will deepen their understanding of their leadership styles and prepare for broader professional opportunities in the arts industry.

ELIGIBILITY:

To be eligible for consideration, applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years old by the start of the program.
  • Be able to commit to an 8-month program.
  • Reside in, or be able to relocate to, New Haven, CT.
  • Have a strong desire to work in marketing or front of house departments and express this interest in the application.
  • Carefully read through the instructions and submit a thoughtfully completed application.

 

This apprenticeship will most likely not work alongside a full-time college course load.

The program will run Sept 30, 2024 to May 30, 2025. Apprentices will be selected by August 16. Interviews will start when applications close.

 

COMPENSATION:

Pay: $20 for an average of 35 or 40 hours/week, depending on activities of the department.

Benefits: Eligibility for Long Wharf Theatre’s health insurance and dental plan, paid company holidays, and other.

Perks: Professional development, networking opportunities, free tickets to Long Wharf Theatre productions, and more.

 

HOW TO APPLY:

Please submit a resume, cover letter outlining why you want to become an arts administrator and what is appealing to you about Long Wharf Theatre, and two letters of recommendation. Applications are due July 15, 2024. Please email them to human.resources@longwharf.org.

 

THE WORK ENVIRONMENT & CULTURE:

The leadership at LWT cares deeply about staff culture and development. Members of the LWT staff are encouraged to engage in courageous conversations within departments and interdepartmentally. There is a belief within the organization that great art comes from great relationships. LWT supports and cares for team members as a reflection of the quality of artistic exploration on our stages.

 

QUESTIONS: If you have any questions about the program, application, or Long Wharf Theatre please reach out Avery Anderson, Director of Marketing and Communications by emailing avery.anderson@longwharf.org.

 

WHAT THE DAY-TO-DAY COULD LOOK LIKE:

Assisting on marketing campaigns, including distribution, copywriting, and research projects.

Email generation for campaigns, as needed.

Website updates

Working in the Box Office.

Maintenance of Spektrix (patron tracking software) and sales tracking reports.

Working front-of-house positions at shows.

Logistical support at marketing promo events, including community conversations and donor events.

Attending all department meetings and reporting on your current projects.

Archiving marketing materials.

WHAT YOU’LL BE LEARNING:

  • Organizational Structures: Understanding how different types of arts organizations are structured and operate.
  • Strategic Planning: Learning to set long-term goals, create actionable plans, and measure success.
  • Project Management: Gaining skills in planning, executing, and closing projects effectively.
  • Budgeting and Financial Management: Learning to create and manage budgets, financial reporting, and accounting principles.
  • Marketing Strategies: Developing skills in digital marketing, social media, content creation, and traditional marketing techniques.
  • Audience Engagement: Learning how to attract and retain diverse audiences and understanding audience analytics.
  • Leadership Skills: Building effective leadership styles, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Professional Development: Participate in monthly workshops designed to enhance your leadership and administrative skills.
  • Check-ins: Join bi-weekly meetings with fellow apprentices and Dir of Marketing to share experiences and progress.
  • Cultural Competency: Learning about and implementing practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization and its programming.
  • Community Engagement: Building relationships with diverse communities and ensuring their representation in the organization’s activities.
  • Legal Compliance: Understanding the legal aspects relevant to non-profits and arts organizations, including intellectual property rights and labor laws.
  • Ethical Practices: Learning to navigate ethical issues in arts administration, ensuring transparency and integrity in operations.
  • Technology Integration: Leveraging digital tools for project management, marketing, virtual programming, and audience engagement.
  • Data Management: Understanding how to collect, analyze, and use data to inform decision-making.
  • Industry Knowledge: Staying informed about trends, challenges, and innovations in the arts sector.
  • Networking: Building a professional network through industry events, conferences, and mentorship opportunities.

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TABLE:

  • Curiosity and Initiative: A strong desire to learn and proactively seek opportunities for growth within the arts administration field.
  • Adaptability: Ability to adapt to new challenges and environments with a positive attitude.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to process feedback and collaborate effectively.
  • Team Player: Collaborative spirit, ready to support and learn from colleagues across departments.
  • Dedication: Enthusiastic about supporting the mission and vision of Long Wharf Theatre.
  • Engagement: Willingness to attend and participate in theatre performances, programs, and events, including some nights and weekends.
  • Time Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to juggle multiple priorities and tasks.
  • Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage projects from inception to completion, ensuring deadlines are met.