HBCU Students: Apply for Paid Theater Apprenticeship!

Are you an HBCU student or recent graduate with a passion for theater? Do you dream of working behind the scenes in the commercial theater industry? Then listen up! Broadway Across America (BAA) and the Black Theatre Coalition (BTC) have just opened applications for their fifth annual Regional Apprenticeship program, and it’s a fantastic paid opportunity designed specifically to bring more underrepresented voices into the spotlight—and backstage!

A Gateway to the Commercial Theater World

This isn’t just any internship; it’s a 14-week paid initiative running from January through April 2026. It offers invaluable, hands-on experience in the commercial theater business, with a special focus on Broadway touring. If you’re looking to kickstart your career in theater administration, marketing, operations, or ticketing, this program is tailor-made for you.

The program structure is designed for maximum exposure. Apprentices will spend 13 weeks immersed in one of BAA’s regional offices across the country—think New York City, Atlanta, Houston, Seattle, and more! There, they’ll learn the ins and outs of presenting shows, ticketing strategies, marketing campaigns, and venue operations. The grand finale? A week in New York City for intensive on-the-job training, crucial networking opportunities, and, of course, experiencing Broadway shows firsthand.

A Proven Track Record of Success

Since its inception five years ago, the BAA-BTC Apprenticeship has been a powerful launchpad for aspiring theater professionals. The program boasts an impressive roster of alumni who have gone on to secure positions at major industry players like Tony Award Productions, Disney Theatrical Productions, and the John Gore Organization. Many past participants have come from esteemed HBCUs, including Howard University, Spelman College, and Coppin State University, proving that this initiative is actively fostering talent from diverse backgrounds.

We are proud to see the continued impact of our partnership with BTC, as alumni of the program go on to build meaningful careers across the Broadway industry not just in New York, but across America. — Lauren Reid, President of the John Gore Organization

The co-founders of BTC, T. Oliver Reid and Warren Adams, also highlighted the program’s significance, stating, “Five years in, our partnership with JGO continues to create real access points for early-career professionals. We’ve seen firsthand how this program can help them build connections, with a national reach, and take meaningful steps toward furthering their careers in the industry.”

Building Equity Behind the Scenes

The Black Theatre Coalition, founded in 2019, is dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers within the theater world. While progress has been made in onstage representation, BTC’s crucial mission is to increase diversity in administrative, producing, and executive roles—the vital positions that keep the industry running. Their partnership with Broadway Across America is instrumental in achieving this goal on a national level.

This apprenticeship provides more than just training; it offers a robust support system. Through mentorship and professional development, participants gain access to a network of industry leaders, providing guidance that extends far beyond the 14 weeks of the program. This network has been a key factor in the continued success of its alumni.

Who Should Apply?

The program is actively seeking students pursuing degrees in a wide range of fields that intersect with commercial theater. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Arts Administration
• Business Administration
• Marketing
• Public Relations/Communications
• Theatre Studies
• Finance/Accounting
• Human Resources
• Pre-Law
• Arts Ticketing/Sales/Operations

Applicants from all backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities are strongly encouraged to apply. This is a chance to gain incredible experience and make meaningful connections in the theater industry.

The deadline to apply is October 1, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET. Don’t miss out! You can find more information and submit your application at broadwayacrossamerica.com/apprenticeship.