Theater apprentices sought for Vassar College/New York Stage and Film summer program

The Vassar College/New York Stage and Film Powerhouse Summer Theater Program for theater pre-professionals is now accepting applications for its 2002 season. Begun in 1985, the program is intended for those seriously considering a career in theater or a career change into theater. The apprentice program begins June 14 and ends July 28, 2002.

Vassar College and New York Stage and Film's Powerhouse Summer Theater Program is a unique collaboration between a 139-year-old liberal arts college, Vassar, and an established professional theater group, the New York Stage and Film Company. Apprentices in the program choose a discipline and then work alongside some of the country's leading theater practitioners. This program was the subject of a CBS Sunday Morning feature with Charles Osgood. Classes, held daily except Sunday, are taught by visiting master teachers and members of the professional company. As part of the rigorous training program, practical work is required of all apprentices. Their participation is based on individual needs, talents, and desires.

The proposed 2002 season will consist of three main stage productions, outdoor Shakespeare, second stage productions, workshop productions, and play-reading festivals.
The focus of the Vassar College/New York Stage and Film Powerhouse Summer Theater Program is the development of new work, and the apprentices will be an integral part of the process. At the same time apprentice actors will perfect their own craft as members of the company.

Apprentice directors and playwrights will develop their material in workshops and readings. It is the goal of the Powerhouse to build an apprentice company each season. Actors, directors, playwrights, and designers all work together to form their own company within the framework of the larger professional theater company. Apprentices take classes in text, directing, acting, playwriting, improv, radio theater, voice, and movement. In addition, the apprentices shadow professional actors, playwrights, directors, and technicians throughout the summer theater season.

Additional information may be obtained on the web at http://powerhouse.vassar.edu/, or by calling Powerhouse at (914) 437-5902. Applications may be sent to Powerhouse, Box 225, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. 12604-0225.

Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations or information on accessibility should contact Campus Activities Office at (845) 437-5370. Without sufficient notice, appropriate space and/or assistance may not be available.

Vassar College is a highly selective, coeducational, independent, residential liberal arts college founded in 1861.

This article was posted on Tuesday, February 5th, 2002.