Acting Apprenticeship
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ) is a true Teaching Theatre – a role in which we take great pride. For over 30 years, STNJ has provided an exceptional training ground for early career theatre artists by creating an environment that is nurturing, inspiring, and disciplined; challenging students to push themselves and their craft to the next level.
2026 Cohort: May 26 - June 26
The Acting Apprenticeship is a five-week, conservatory-style training program designed for early career artists ages 18 & older. Through their training, Apprentices will gain invaluable exposure to all aspects of professional theatre, both as an art form and as a business. Although the primary focus is Shakespeare and other classic works, a variety of classes and workshops are offered to support, diversify, and challenge young artists as they grow into well-rounded professionals.
Expand and Deepen Your Understanding and Execution of Classical Performance
Build Longlasting Connections With Your Cohort and the Shakespeare Theatre Community
Strengthen Your Resume
Gain Valuable Insight Into a Career in the Arts
Classes meet six days a week and focus on:
Movement for the Actor ● Acting/Scene Study ● Voice/Speech ● Text Analysis
Play Reading ● Stage Combat
Seminars and workshops with industry professionals are also scheduled throughout the summer.
Two Showcase Performances
give Apprentices the opportunity to integrate their classwork with their own artistic practice. These performances include:
| The Epic Scene Night - an ensemble-based scene presentation | The Final Project - an abridged presentation of a Shakespeare play |
The Apprentice Company is a tuition-based program. On-campus housing is not required; however, we recommend that students live (or arrange accommodations) a convenient distance from the Theatre. Students who do not require housing are only responsible for the cost of tuition.
Please note that Board is NOT included in on-campus housing costs. Scholarships are available on a limited basis, and most provide partial aid only.
2026 SUMMER TUITION: $3,000
2026 ON-CAMPUS HOUSING: $1,600
Enrollment is by audition only. Applicants are encouraged to submit materials early.
Applications are due no late than March 15, 2026.
Apply Today!
Sample Schedule
Acting Apprenticeship FAQs
When are applications due?
- All applications are due no later than March 15, 2026.
When will I know if I've been accepted?
- All decisions will be made and communicated by April 1, 2026.
What do I do if I need housing?
- Dorm-style housing is available on the Drew University campus where our theatre is located. Please indicate in your application if you require housing (note: there is an additional fee for on-campus housing). On-campus housing is not a requirement, but we do recommend that if non-local Apprentices forego on-campus housing, they find accomodations a convenient, commutable distance from the theatre.
Does the theatre offer financial aid?
- Scholarships are available on a limited basis and most provide partial aid only. If you are acceptedanf require financial assistance, please let us know. We believe that theatre and education should be accessible to all and will do what we can to offer the aid that we are able.
What do I need for my application?
- For your application, you will need:
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Contact information for two references
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A 1-page cover letter
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Current resume
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Current headshot
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An audition video (no longer than 3 minutes) with a slate/introduction and two contrasting Shakespeare monologues
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If you have additional questions, please contact Training@ShakespeareNJ.org or call (973) 845-6742.
Former Acting Apprentice Faculty
Each year, we build a team of superb artists and engaging teachers to train the Acting Apprentices. Here are a few faculty members who have worked with us over the years:
For more information, please contact Training@ShakespeareNJ.org or call (973) 845-6742.
Interested in our Internships? Click HERE for more info!