Want to learn how live performances are built—from the first cable run to the final note of the show?

The John Michael Kohler Arts Center (Sheboygan, WI) is launching a new Technical Theatre Fellowship, a paid summer training program where participants gain hands-on experience producing live concerts while working on the Levitt AMP Sheboygan Music Series.

Fellows receive real-world training in sound, lighting, and live event production, participate in weekly master classes with industry professionals, and apply newly learned skills in real time during each week’s concert production.

The Summer 2026 fellows will form the inaugural cohort, helping pilot what is envisioned to grow into a two-year technical theatre fellowship program with progressive production responsibilities in future seasons.

What You’ll Do

• Participate in hands-on production work supporting the Levitt AMP concert series
• Attend weekly master classes with technical theatre professionals specializing in sound, lighting, stage management, and production coordination
• Apply newly learned skills during the live concert production
• Gain experience working with touring artists and professional production crews
• Build connections with technical theatre professionals and venues throughout the region

What You’ll Gain

This fellowship combines hands-on production work with structured learning and professional mentorship. At the conclusion of the program, fellows receive a certificate of completion recognizing their training and production experience.

By the end of the program, fellows will gain:

• Practical experience producing a professional outdoor concert series from setup through strike
• Hands-on training & weekly instruction from working technical theatre professionals through specialized master classes & collaborating with touring artists and professional production crews
• A certificate of completion recognizing technical theatre training and production experience
• Professional introductions to regional theatres, venues, and production managers & Potential opportunities for future contract production work with the Arts Center and other organizations in the region
• Exposure to the broader field of technical theatre, including stage management, artist relations, production planning, and live performance logistics.

The Arts Center is developing this pilot program as the foundation for a future two-year technical theatre fellowship, creating a pipeline of skilled production professionals serving Sheboygan’s growing performing arts community.

What We’re Looking For

This fellowship is ideal for individuals interested in developing skills in technical theatre, live music production, or stage management. Strong candidates may include:

• Students involved in high school or college theatre tech programs
• Individuals interested in live music production or concert staging
• Stage crew members looking to expand their technical skills
• Early-career theatre technicians seeking hands-on experience

Applicants must:

• Be 16 years of age or older
• Be punctual and dependable for scheduled events
• Have a strong interest in learning technical theatre
• Be able to safely lift and move equipment up to 50 pounds

Prior experience with theatre productions or concert events is helpful but not required.

Motivation, curiosity, and a willingness to learn are the most important qualifications.

Work Hours

June 18 – August 13, 2026

Fellows participate in both weekly training sessions and production days. Schedule may vary based on production needs.

Wednesdays – Training & Production Preparation (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM)

• Production planning and technical preparation
• Master class with visiting technical theatre professionals

Thursdays – Concert Production Day

8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Concert setup, artist load-in, and sound check (with breaks for lunch and dinner)

6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

• Live concert production

8:30 PM – 12:00 AM

• Strike and cleanup

Join us in building something new while gaining the skills, experience, and connections to launch your path in technical theatre.

 Employment Opportunities – John Michael Kohler Arts Center

The John Michael Kohler Arts Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.