Production Positions
Thank you so much for your interest in MTWichita! For more than 50 years, MTWichita has been one of the United States’ premier summer theatres – for those onstage as well as the individuals behind the scenes. Whether you are coming back home to Wichita or joining us for the first time – we’re glad to have you here.
We’re looking forward to seeing your application! If you have any additional questions not answered here, please direct your questions to Michael Cole.
General Position Descriptions
Select department to download job descriptions.
Travel and Housing in Wichita
Full housing subsidies are given to those from out-of-town who are in shop head positions for the major shops within the Production Department. This is available either in the form of pre-arranged accommodation through MTWichita or through a one-time deposit to your bank account for an equivalent cash value of the MTWichita housing. All other non-local employees will be offered a one-time stipend at a minimum of $500 and supplied with a listing of local housing options or can select MTWichita-provided housing with assigned roommates to be paid via pay deduction.
Travel in Wichita
It is highly recommended that you travel to Wichita with your own transportation or make arrangements with another staffer for travel to and from work. Production Department members can work atypical hours and the availability of public transportation isn’t always guaranteed.
About our Facility
MTWichita produces and performs within the Century II Performing Arts Complex, situated along the Arkansas River in the heart of downtown Wichita, KS. Affectionately called the “mothership” due to its otherworldly mid-century modern architecture, Century II is the home to not only MTWichita but also the Wichita Symphony Orchestra and our education arm, Music Theatre for Young People. During the summer, MTWichita takes over the basement production spaces as well as the 2,145-seat Concert Hall to produce five full-scale musicals.
For the 2023 summer season, MTWichita will be producing at Botanica, The Wichita Gardens and Capitol Federal Theater as well. This gives the production staff the unique opportunity to learn how to work in outdoor venues. Cooldown stations onsite will provide water and snacks in order to keep hydrated, as well as fans and shaded areas.
Working Conditions
Summer theatre is not easy. For a great many people interested in the industry, summer theatre serves as a fantastic first introduction to the rigors of life in the arts. MTWichita is no exception to that rule and technicians can be expected to push their limits during the weeks that they are here. Upon making it to the end, however, participants will leave the program more confident in their abilities, speed, and precision. Technicians learn more in a few months of working with other industry professionals at MTWichita than can be accomplished in years of training outside of summer theatre / with other formal training. More importantly, MTWichita prides itself in cultivating an atmosphere and a network of people who leave here not only as close colleagues but as good friends. You’ll find that the people you meet in Wichita will be the same people you work with all over the United States for years to come – our network extends into every major market and each year we produce more and more accomplished alumni who go on to work on Broadway, touring productions, in film and television, within education, and right here in Kansas.
- Working Hours / Days
A typical workday for most employees begins at 9 am, breaks for lunch at 1 pm, and ends at 6 pm. Breaks are taken midway through the first and second 4-hour blocks of the day. Those working in supervisory roles or on show crew can expect those hours to float to reflect the show schedule or expand to meet the needs of production. Every week has at least one dedicated company-wide day off, with the possibility for more time away as the needs of the productions dictate. There are times that call for working beyond the typical work hours in order to make the designated deadlines for the show to open. - Hospitality
The MTWichita Guild kindly sets up the “Encore Table” at the back of the rehearsal hall and keeps it stocked every day of the summer. Employees are welcome to grab a bite to eat on breaks or when they are able. “Sunday Supper” is provided on Sunday of some show weeks – also provided by the MTWichita Guild. Those working on deck during load-in or load-out are often treated to donuts or bagels courtesy of the production department. There is no shortage of food and drinks at MTWichita! - Location
Most production spaces including the production office, welding area, carpentry shop, electrics and sound shop, props shop, costume shop, and scenery storage are housed in the basement of Century II – safe from the frequent Kansas thunderstorms and balmy summer heat. The wig shop, dressing rooms, wardrobe area, paint shop, and stage are all on the ground level inside the facility. Administrative offices and a balcony that encircles the entire facility are found on the second floor – perfect for a breath of fresh air or lunch in the shade.
