OVERVIEW

The Performing Arts Program of Japan Society seeks a volunteer intern for the spring 2026.

Since 1953, Japan Society’s Performing Arts Program has presented well over 700 of the finest Japanese theater, dance and music events. In addition to its annual season of eight to ten full-evening programs, educational workshops, lectures and demonstrations, Japan Society has been a pioneer in presenting works that are products of collaborations between Japanese and American/international artists as well as introducing Japanese contemporary performing arts to American audiences through local performances and North American tours. Please see our website for details: https://japansociety.org/performing-arts/ .

Responsibilities

• Assisting with preparations for upcoming and future performances/workshops/ancillary events
• Assisting with devising and implementing outreach strategies for marketing and promotion efforts for upcoming performances/workshops
• Assisting with creating documents and presentations needed for performers’ visa applications and other project related proposals and documentation.
• Assisting with front of house operations at performances/workshops
• Managing the upkeep and maintenance of Performing Arts archives, database and press files.
• Daily administrative support, including filing, mailings and copying.
• Proofreading support as needed (and translation support if you are fluent in Japanese).

Requirements

• Strong communication, writing skills, and proofreading skills
• Familiarity with and interest in Performing Arts, familiarity with Japanese Performing Arts a plus
• Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work both independently and within a team setting
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook and experience with social marketing tools, familiarity with video editing software a plus
• Fluency in verbal and written English required; fluency in verbal and written Japanese language a big plus

Internship Dates and Time Commitment

Time Frame: Internships for summer are typically 6 to 10 weeks in duration, from the beginning of June to mid-August being the longest period.

Days per week: Minimum of 2 days per week, preferably on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Days and hours can fluctuate, and some evening hours are required when there are performing arts program scheduled. Additional hours are available upon discussion.

Learning Opportunities

• A deep understanding of Performing Arts venues and cultural organizations across NYC
• A close look at how to program and promote events in Performing Arts in NYC
• Opportunities to access Japan Society’s extensive archive on Japanese performance
• Opportunities to see the nuts and bolts behind international collaborative projects between artists in the U.S. and Japan
• An in-depth knowledge of the leading artists in theater, dance and music from Japan

While internships are unpaid, Japan Society values its interns and provides the following benefits:

• Commuting cost from tri-state area will be reimbursed
• College internship credit arrangement will be available
• Free or reduced-priced admission to Japan Society programs
• Free admission for intern and guest to New York City museums