Designed for more experienced young actors, including alumni of the Apprentice Company, the Next Stage Ensemble rehearses and tours two abridged classic plays in repertory throughout the state during the 11-week program. The 12-member Ensemble also takes advanced classes in voice, movement, and stage combat, and participates in seminars, workshops and master classes. Finally, Next Stage members also understudy Main Stage and Outdoor Stage performances, allowing them to earn EMC points for the duration of the summer.
Admission to this highly selective program is by audition or invitation only.
May 30-August 16, 2010
2010 Tuition/Fees: $385
2010 Housing: $1100 (plus $100 deposit)
The Program:
* Touring
* Training
* Audition/Application Process
* FAQs
The primary focus of Next Stage Ensemble training is rehearsing and touring two abridged classic plays under the direction of professional guest directors. Next Stage Ensemble members also receive feedback from the Director of Education, the Associate Artistic Director and other Shakespeare Theatre staff.
For approximately seven weeks, the Ensemble tours both plays in repertory to venues throughout the state, including libraries, retirement homes, summer camps, community centers and parks, performing for audiences of all ages. Most performances take place on weekday evenings and weekend afternoons, six days a week. The 2009 Next Stage Ensemble gave over 50 performances.
In addition, performances are offered to the entire Shakespeare Theatre community through the Picnic Series and Late-Nite Series.
All Next Stage members also take advanced classes in voice, movement and stage combat during the training program. During the first few weeks of the program, while the touring productions are in rehearsal, the faculty provides individualized coaching and addresses specific needs and issues that arise in the rehearsal process.
In the remaining weeks, voice, movement, and combat classes will meet twice a week for approximately 5 1/2 hours on each class day. Weekly seminars and master classes will address ensemble skills, audition technique, monologues, text analysis and other areas.
The Next Stage Ensemble is a highly selective program, and follows its own application process, distinct from the other tiers of the Summer Professional Training Program.
To be considered for the Next Stage Ensemble, please submit a resume, headshot and cover letter to:
Joe Discher, Associate Artistic Director
ATTN: Next Stage Ensemble
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey
36 Madison Avenue
Madison, NJ 07940
It is recommended that you submit your materials no later than March 13 to be sure that your application is considered.
If you are selected for an audition, you will be contacted by the casting staff, and an audition in our area will be scheduled during February–April.
What kind of experience do I need to be a member of the Next Stage Ensemble?
The members of the Next Stage Ensemble typically range in age from 21-25, and have completed their undergraduate degrees in acting. Some have begun work on their MFAs. Some are alumni of The Shakespeare Theatre's Apprentice Company. Occasionally, younger undergraduate students with strong training and ability in classical acting are accepted into the program. An audition is required for all Next Stage members.
How do I earn Equity Membership points as a member of the Next Stage Ensemble?
Ensemble members understudy the Main Stage and Outdoor Stage productions during the 11 weeks of the training program. Paperwork and more information about earning EMC points will be provided to you at the start of the summer.
Does this mean I will be acting on the Main Stage?
Not necessarily. There are no designated understudy performances at The Shakespeare Theatre. Understudies have appeared on the Main Stage when necessary. Main Stage audiences will have the opportunity to see your work in the Picnic Series held on the lawn in front of the theatre during the summer.
What are the benefits and future opportunities for members of the Next Stage Ensemble?
In addition to receiving valuable training, actors who participate in the Next Stage Ensemble build a relationship with The Shakespeare Theatre that gives them prime consideration for the Main Stage Non-Equity Company and the Shakespeare LIVE! touring company in subsequent seasons. Numerous Next Stage members have returned to The Shakespeare Theatre to perform on the Main Stage and/or in Shakespeare LIVE!
Where is The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey located?
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is located on the campus of Drew University in scenic Madison, New Jersey (just 30 miles southwest of Manhattan), close to Morristown. Known as "the University in the Forest," Drew boasts a beautiful campus, and the majority of our company members enjoy escaping from Manhattan for the summer to immerse themselves in the classics in a pastoral setting. Manhattan is, however, easily accessible via the NJ Transit system; approximately 50 minutes by train.
Is The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey a collegiate or a professional theatre?
Though the administrative and principal performance facilities reside on the campus of Drew University, The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is a prominent, professional regional theatre working under an AEA LORT contract. It runs in complete autonomy from the university. The relationship with Drew began in 1972 when The Shakespeare Theatre (then known as New Jersey Shakespeare Festival) was invited to be the professional theatre in residence on the Drew University campus. Since that time, many Drew students have become involved in The Shakespeare Theatre's administrative and artistic training programs, and several have forged a long-term professional relationship with the company. Several Shakespeare Theatre staff members have also acted as adjunct faculty and guest instructors in Drew University's Theatre and Graduate English Studies programs.
Where do I stay while at The Shakespeare Theatre?
Members of the Next Stage Ensemble live in the residence halls on the Drew University campus, which have common kitchen and laundry facilities. Standard rooms are double-occupancy, although single rooms are often available for the members of the Ensemble. Other university facilities (the most notable of which is the Simon Athletic Forum, which houses an indoor track, basketball and racquetball courts, a fitness room, a free weight room, and an indoor swimming pool) are available to all Shakespeare Theatre company members at no additional cost.
Training program participants also enjoy the quaint environment of Madison's charming downtown, which includes numerous shops and restaurants. Grocery stores, shopping, restaurants and cinemas are within comfortable walking distance from the campus, though many students choose to bring their cars with them for the summer. The university snack bar, cafeteria and bookstore are also available throughout the summer for quick meals and shopping.
Are There Any Crew Responsibilities?
Next Stage members are generally asked to assist with one Opening Night reception in the course of the summer. They also receive an ushering orientation, and may be asked to usher upon occasion.
