Des Moines Metro Opera is a major summer opera festival located in Indianola, IA. The company produces 3-4 new productions each season in a summer repertory schedule, presented within the intimate 467-seat theatre at the Blank Performing Arts Center. Our 53rd season includes Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman, Janáček’s The Cunning Little Vixen, and Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress.
At Des Moines Metro Opera, the Design & Production Internship is a concentrated nine-week training and work program. Over the nine weeks interns participate in talkbacks with directors, designers, and production staff. Interns also attend several classroom workshops including refining a resume and portfolio, networking, websites, freelancing, and production contracts; as well as receive hands-on instruction in skill-based workshops which include rigging for the stage, welding, and stage painting. All the while interns are working alongside 50+ staff and design members from professional theatre and production companies, helping interns expand their professional network of contacts.
Design & Production Internship Departments:
Stage Operations Department: Works with the Stage Carpenters to crew technical and dress rehearsals, work notes, repertory changeovers and run crew. This department has a varied schedule including overnights. (8-10 internships available)
Carpentry Department: Works in the scene shop and assists with changeovers as needed. There are no run crew duties. (1 internship available)
Paint Department: Works with the paint crew in the painting of all set pieces, drops, and paint notes. This department has a varied schedule including overnights, there are no run crew duties. (2 internships available)
Properties Department: Works with the construction, alteration, and fabrication of all props. Acts as the properties run crew with the Props Artisans and Props Stage Supervisor. (3 internships available)
Costume Department: Works on assisting fittings and alterations for seasonal costume rental with some costume construction. Interns also assist the Wardrobe Supervisor during the run of performances as dressers. (3 internships available)
Electrics Department: Works on hanging, circuiting, and focusing of the season plot. Assists with changeovers and running of electrics cues during the run of performances. (2 internships available)
Sound and Video Department: Works with the Sound and Video Supervisor on the setup of all audio and video equipment. Assists with changeovers and the running of the sound and video during the run of performances. (1 internship available)
Wigs and Makeup Department: Works on the daily maintenance and setting of wigs, pre-performance application of wigs and makeup. Assists with chorus quick changes during the run of the performances. (2 internships available)
Stage Management Department: Works directly with the Stage Management Team on the preparation, rehearsals, and performances of all productions. (2 internships available)
Production Management Department: Works with the Production Management Team on scheduling, budgeting, and setting of different spaces in the performance venue. There are no run crew duties. (1 internship available)
Compensation:
Daily stipend of $75/day during the festival season.
$300 travel stipend to be paid upon arrival.
DMMO will provide single occupancy air-conditioned dormitory style housing during the festival season.
Dates of Internship:
Monday, May 26 – Friday, July 25, 2025.
Qualifications and Skills
Any Combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying. Typical qualifications would be equivalent to:
• Currently enrolled in or graduated with BA/BFA in Theatre or equivalent professional experience.
• 2 years of related theatrical experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be at least 18 years of age to apply.
Application Process:
Submit resume with 3 references and a cover letter via email to:
Production@dmmo.org
Deadline:
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applicant screening process to begin immediately.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Des Moines Metro Opera celebrates diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate against any employee or job applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, creed, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, age, veteran status, political affiliation or philosophy. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.