Acting Intern

Internship Program

The Illinois Shakespeare Festival offers an internship program for qualified college students to expand their skills and gain experience in a professional theatre environment. As part of the ISF Internship Program, you will gain hands-on, real-world experience in a creative and supportive environment. You will have the opportunity to work one on one with professionals in your chosen area of study. You will be able to develop work that you can feature in your personal professional portfolio. For all internships, we are looking for individuals that are interesting in focusing their work on a specific area of study. To advance your learning opportunities we are looking for individuals who possess effective communication skills, are organized, and are detail-oriented. Individuals who apply must adhere to all health and safety guidelines set forth by Illinois Shakespeare Festival and Illinois State University. This may include, but not be limited to, daily health check-ins, COVID-19 testing, and additional required training.

Acting

• Basic knowledge of rehearsal and performance practices
• An interest in gaining experience working with other professionals in your field
• Basic knowledge of backstage procedures
• Acting interns are members of the Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) acting company, perform in select mainstage productions, and serve as understudies for the professional company.

Acting Internships

• Acting Internship applications for the Summer 2026 Season are now closed.
• Applicants interested in an Acting Internship should complete the application above and submit an audition video.
• Illinois State University students are encouraged to audition for the Sutter Family Shakespeare Scholarship.

Eligibility Requirements

• Current enrollment in a college program with an anticipated graduation date of August 2026 or later.
• Ability to commit to the full summer season. All internships are full-time commitments. Depending on your internship area, the summer schedule will run from May 2026 through August 2026.
• Reside in, or able to relocate to, Bloomington-Normal, IL for the duration of the internship.
• Pass a standard background check.
• Individuals who apply must adhere to all health and safety guidelines set forth by Illinois Shakespeare Festival and Illinois State University.