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.
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 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 strongly advised 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 public transportation may not always be reliable.
Compensation & Start Dates
MTWichita offers weekly salaries based on responsibilities:
Shop Heads – $1,100.00/week
Asst. Shop Heads/Supervisors – $750.00/week
All other Non-Intern Shop Positions – $500.00/week
Intern Stage Crew Positions – $450/week
Intern Shop Positions – $350/week
MTWichita employs both seasoned professionals and college students over the summer. In recognizing the academic year, Shop Heads and Asst. Shop Heads/Supervisors start on or around April 22nd. Other employees would be expected to join on or around May 15th.
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, Kansas. 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, The Academy. During the summer, MTWichita takes over the basement production spaces as well as the 2,145-seat Concert Hall to produce five large-scale musicals.
Working Conditions
For a great many people interested in the industry, summer theater programs provide an excellent introduction to the rigors of life in the arts. MTWichita is no exception to that rule, and technicians can expect to expand their capabilities during the weeks that they are here. Upon completing the program, participants will leave MTWichita with a newfound confidence 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 theater or with other formal training. More importantly, MTWichita fosters a positive and collaborative environment where people 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 alumni are successful in various facets of the industry, including Broadway, touring productions, film and television, education, and local productions.
- Working Hours / Days
A typical workday for most employees generally commences 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. Working beyond the typical work hours may be required at times 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. There is no shortage of food and drinks at MTWichita! - Location
Most production spaces, including the Stage Management office, welding area, carpentry shop, electrics and sound shop, props shop, costume shop, hair and makeup shop, and scenery storage, are housed in the basement of Century II, safe from the intense Kansas thunderstorms and balmy summer heat. The 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.
