The Majestic Theater is located at 131 Elm Street in West Springfield.
Republican file photo
WEST SPRINGFIELD — Becoming a professional actor is usually a long process that can involve expensive classes and endless auditions.
However, half a dozen aspiring thespians will have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals and gain some acting credits this summer at The Majestic Theater in West Springfield.
“I’m thrilled to be creating this program,” said Apprentice Program Director Chelsie Nectow. “We’re seeking to provide emerging artists in the Pioneer Valley with hands-on training and professional credits,” said Nectow. She said there is no other program like this in the region. Not only is the program not tuition-based like those in Boston and Lennox, but it also provides a $250 per week stipend.
The program, which will run from late June through mid-August, will include several workshops taught by members of the Majestic, as well as outside experts. Topics will vary from resume building to audition tips and intimacy coordination.
Nectow said, “It’s part of our job to have an understanding and respect for all the different parts of running a theater.” As such, the program will also provide experience working in the box office, concessions, the marketing department and with the technical aspects of production. The apprentices will be cast in one or both Majestic Children’s Theater’s productions. This season, the shows staged for younger audiences are “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!: The Musical!” and “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.”
The ideal candidate pool is college-aged — higher education is not necessary — with “relevant theatrical experience,” Nectow said. She added that performance experience can include community theater, and candidates should have pursued some voice, dance or acting classes. Artists of all genders, races, ethnicities and backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Nectow said the Children’s Theater seemed like a good fit for the Apprentice Program dovetails because the Majestic already pays young performers for the two summertime shows. Nectow is excited that the theater is offering the program. She began her theater career through a similar apprentice program at a different theater company. Nectow joined the Majestic Theater as an actor in 2022, eventually becoming more involved in the behind-the-scenes work.
Video applications open Feb. 2 at majestictheater.com/apprentice. The submission should include information about the candidate’s background, theatrical goals, a dance reel and two songs. A callback process will follow.
