The Nancy L. Wall Emerging Artists Program

With daytime views of Aspen Mountain and nights filled with stars, Theatre Aspen offers professional productions, cabarets, and special events as well as educational programming. The Emerging Artists Program is offered in every department of our theater: on stage, in the wings and at the office. Applications for 2026 are now closed. Applications for 2027 will open at the beginning of November.

About the Nancy L. Wall Emerging Artists Program

For over a decade, the Nancy L. Wall Emerging Artists Program for aspiring theatre professionals has been offering the opportunity for students to gain hands on experience with professionals in their fields and the opportunity to observe and assist in the theatrical production process from start to finish. The program offers roles in areas including: Technical, Stage Ops, Company Management, Costume & Wardrobe, Wigs & Wardrobe, Choreography, Development, Education, Lighting, Marketing, Content Creation, Music Direction, Performance, Sound, Stage Management, and Writing & Direction.

Emerging Artists will make valuable connections and develop career skills by working on the main stage, participating in special events, assisting in the administrative office, and working closely with industry professionals. Each Emerging Artist will be working hands-on in their department, making meaningful contributions throughout the summer. While at Theatre Aspen, all Emerging Artists will also have the opportunity to attend seminars taught by Theatre Aspen staff and other professionals.

Emerging Artists will be in residence in the spectacular mountain setting of Aspen, CO for the entirety of the Theatre Aspen summer season from mid-late May through late-August (dates vary by position, please see job descriptions for exact dates).

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Benefits of the Nancy L. Wall Emerging Artists Program

INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS

Emerging Artists have the opportunity to work with and learn alongside leading artists in their fields under the direction of highly qualified and experienced professionals, including successful directors, choreographers, designers, and performers from across the United States. These professionals have credits that include work on Broadway, national tours, in Hollywood, and at regional theatres. Emerging Artists will make valuable connections with leading employers and artists all areas of our organization.

HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

Performance Emerging Artists are cast in at least one main stage show and the Theatre Aspen Summer Cabaret Series. They may also have additional performance opportunities throughout the summer. Design and Technical Emerging Artists work with professional designers and technicians in their field of choice. Education Emerging Artists work with professional Teaching Artists and Education Administrators in youth classes and productions. Emerging Artists in administrative roles have the opportunity to be hands-on in the office working with both the administrative staff and external company vendors.

EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS

The Producing Director, creative team members, company associates, and other industry experts will offer a variety of classes and lectures throughout the summer.  Topics may include “the Biz of the Biz”, networking, resume reviews, union overviews, touring, and much more!

HOUSING & SCHOLARSHIP

All Emerging Artists receive a competitive scholarship. Housing is also provided at no cost to the artist in Snowmass Village, as is all transportation to and from Aspen/Snowmass. Free public transportation is available within Aspen/Snowmass, and bikes are available at no cost.

OPEN ACCESS

Performance and Stage Management Emerging Artists have the opportunity to gain membership to Actors’ Equity Association after the summer through the Open Access program. The Emerging Artist Program with Theatre Aspen is considered professional work on a theatre production in the United States and therefore makes former Emerging Artists eligible for the program. Theatre Aspen prides itself on preparing young professionals for work in the field.

ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

While at Theatre Aspen, Emerging Artists may have opportunities to work concessions or drive the golf cart for mainstage shows to earn additional wages. These opportunities are available based on availability and work schedule of the Emerging Artists.

THEATRE ASPEN COMMUNITY

Emerging Artists join a supportive atmosphere in a spectacular mountain setting with the opportunity to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime outdoor and cultural activities. This includes special events and outings throughout the summer. Emerging Artists will also join the Theatre Aspen Alumni Association after successful completion of the program, where they can connect with other alumni currently working in professional positions across all facets of the industry.

WHO CAN APPLY?

Theatre Aspen fosters diverse company in all departments of our organization. We welcome and encourage applications from aspiring artists, administrators and craftspeople of all genders, races, ethnicities and backgrounds.

All applicants must fulfill at least one of the following: be a college-aged young professional, a currently-enrolled college student, or a recently-graduated college student no more than 12 months past your graduation, with either a declared major in a related field or relevant experience in the theatre industry (no graduation dates prior to December 2026).

Questions?

For questions not answered here, please contact The Nancy L. Wall Emerging Artists Program Coordinator, Katie An Siegel: taap@theatreaspen.org

Apprentice Descriptions & Application Requirements



The Nancy L. Wall Emerging Artists Program Underwriters

Jessica and John Fullerton
Nancy Wall and Chuck Wall
Steven Olszewski in memory of Robin Amster
Linda Sandrich in memory of Jay Sandrich