Production Intern - Nutcracker

Portland Ballet’s Production Assistant Interns will support the Artistic and Production teams for the 2026 production of *A Victorian Nutcracker*. This role provides essential backstage, administrative, and operational support to help ensure an organized, smooth, and successful production.

*A Victorian Nutcracker* rehearses at Portland Ballet’s studios before moving into the theater in December (Sanford Performing Arts Center, Merrill Auditorium, Westbrook Performing Arts Center). Based on availability, interns will support the rehearsal process, technical/dress rehearsals, and performance period.

Responsibilities

• Support backstage operations including checking dancers in and out, working with volunteers, hanging signs, organizing props, set pieces, and costumes, and other duties as assigned
• Attend studio and technical rehearsals on an agreed-upon schedule
• Assist with load-in and load-out at theaters, which will include truck loading and moving sets and costumes; late-night hours may be required
• Support front-of-house operations at Westbrook Performing Arts Center, including lobby set-up and decoration, concessions, merchandise, ushering, and other support as needed
• Help troubleshoot and respond to production needs in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a positive attitude
• Provide support during unexpected production needs or schedule changes
• Provide general administrative and organizational assistance to support production operations

Qualifications

• Interest in ballet, theater, live performance, or arts administration
• Reliable, punctual, and able to maintain a professional demeanor
• Willingness to assist with a variety of backstage, administrative, and operational tasks
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and adapting to unexpected changes
• Ability to assist with moving and organizing production materials, including lifting and carrying items of varying weights with assistance as needed
• Ability to take direction and work independently when needed
• Reliable transportation to events in Sanford, Portland, and Westbrook
• Prior experience in theater, dance, events, production, or customer service is helpful but not required

Benefits

• Interns will be able to attend free Open Classes at Portland Ballet if desired
• Will receive complimentary tickets for friends or family to attend the performances
• Gain professional experience working backstage at Portland Ballet’s largest production of the season
• Potential eligibility for college credit, pending approval and requirements of the Intern’s college or university