Production Assistant Program

The Production Assistant position at Madison Opera offers a hands-on experience in a professional opera environment. This volunteer position can be listed on college applications, job applications and resumés. The PA does a few hours during prep week, comes to all chorus stagings, and all tech rehearsals and performances.

Examples of tasks include: support the stage management team with rehearsal operations, help to cue cast members, help set up/take down rehearsal, help track entrances and exits, help track and reset props during staging, put timings in the score, keep track of the emergency contact forms, light walking, help with hospitality, help tape out the floor, have duties during the performances, manage the call board and cast call times, etc.  The PA is a part of the team, and is included in all production-related events. Tasks are assigned based on interest and aptitude.

What you get out of it: experience with a professional stage management team and opera professionals, in a supportive learning environment. You can learn organization skills, people skills, communication skills, teamwork, attention to detail, time management skills, etc. The skills you learn as a stage manager can be transferred to any field. If you are interested in a career in opera, this is a great way to make networking connections and get a foot in the door.

No prior experience is necessary. Ability to read music is helpful, and will open up more task levels. Interest in stage management, willingness to learn, willingness to be helpful, friendliness, and enthusiasm is a must.

We have 2-3 positions each season.