High School Apprentice Program

TheatreWings

A free, pre-professional high school apprentice program for students in grades 9–12. Work directly with theatre professionals and gain first-hand experience in professional theatrical production.

Apply Now Program Guidelines

Why TheatreWings

Learn the Craft From Professionals

Charleston Stage's TheatreWings High School Apprentice Program is designed to give talented young people the opportunity to work directly with theatre professionals and gain first-hand experience in professional theatrical production. Students develop a sense of professionalism: the ability to follow through on commitments, plan time wisely, and meet deadlines. Many TheatreWings apprentices have gone on to successful careers across the theatre field. The program is completely tuition-free for eligible candidates.

Applications for the 2026-2027 season are now open.

Apply for TheatreWings

What You Gain

Program Benefits

Interact with other talented young people from different schools and communities.
Work closely with Charleston Stage professional actors and production staff.
Receive hands-on training comparable to many college-level programs in performance (acting, singing, dancing), set and costume design, props, theatrical painting, lighting, sound, and stage management.
Gain professional theatrical experience working backstage for season shows.
Earn free tickets to Charleston Stage productions.
Acquire community-service and school-to-career credits.
Request letters of recommendation for college applications.
Work in the Dock Street Theatre, Charleston's most historic and beautiful venue.

What's Involved

Program Requirements

Technical Theatre Classes: monthly classes in rotating technical categories, including costumes, scenery, lights, sound, and stage management.
Production Opportunities: fulfill at least one crew position for a Charleston Stage production (roughly 50–65 hours of rehearsals and performances).
Social Events: attend at least three free TheatreWings social events during the year, including preview performances, parties at the Charleston Stage: West Ashley, and local outings.
Communication: apprentices take charge of their own schedule and communications, which our team helps teach along the way.
Time Commitment: the program is a meaningful commitment, reimagined to be flexible while offering rich opportunities.

Classes and rehearsals take place at our West Ashley facilities (Costume Shop and Scene Shop at 1610 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. and the Charleston Stage: West Ashley at 1401 Sam Rittenberg Blvd.), and performances are at the Dock Street Theatre, 135 Church Street, in historic downtown Charleston.

Questions about TheatreWings? Contact our Education Offices at 843.225.3900.

The TheatreWings Program is supported by the Fred and Joan Pittman Family Fund, and funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the South Carolina Arts Association.