The Citadel Theatre is an Edmonton-grown cultural cornerstone and a leading force in Canadian regional theatre, celebrated for bold, imaginative productions that deeply resonate with our local community while contributing to the national artistic conversation. As one of the largest not-for-profit theatres in North America, the Citadel attracts audiences from Edmonton and communities across central and northern Alberta.
Citadel Theatre is seeking one emerging production professional for a paid, mentored apprenticeship embedded in our production department this summer. Supported by grant funding aimed at training and upskilling Edmonton’s performing arts community, this placement offers direct mentorship from experienced Citadel crew members on a fully-mounted professional musical.
One position will be filled. The final placement discipline will be selected based on applicant qualifications across three tracks. We encourage applications from candidates with backgrounds in any of the areas listed below.
AVAILABLE PLACEMENT TRACKS
Track 1: Costume Construction and Pattern Cutting
Dates: May 25 – July 4, 2025 (build period)
The wardrobe apprentice will work alongside our Head of Wardrobe and costume builders throughout the full costume build for the production. You will learn construction techniques, pattern work, fittings, and shop workflow from our experienced wardrobe team. This is a hands-on placement in our wardrobe shop during an active build period.
Track 2: Wigs, Hair, and Makeup
Dates: May 25 – August 2, 2025 (build and/or performance period)
The apprentice will work alongside our hair and makeup team. You will learn techniques for building and styling wigs and maintenance routines for the run of a production.
Track 3: Stage Carpentry / Stage Crew
Dates: July 4 – August 2, 2025 (performance period)
The apprentice will work with our stage carpentry team through load-in, technical rehearsals, and the performance run. You will learn about fly floor operations, venue rigging systems, and running crew responsibilities on a professional main-stage production.
WHAT YOU WILL GAIN
Depending on your placement track, the apprenticeship may include:
- Direct mentorship from experienced Heads of Department
- Hands-on experience on a fully-mounted professional musical
- Exposure to union collective agreements
- Understanding of theatrical production scheduling and workflow
- Experience working within a multi-venue, multi-department organization
- Potential running crew responsibilities during public performances
OTHER INFORMATION
Production: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Placement window: May 25 – August 2, 2025 (varies by discipline)
Compensation: $850 per week, less any applicable statutory deductions.
TO APPLY
We welcome applications from emerging theatre professionals who are passionate about production craft and committed to developing their skills. This opportunity is intended to support the Edmonton community – applicants with local ties or a desire to build a career in this city are strongly encouraged.
You do not need to be a recent graduate. Anyone at an early-to-mid stage of their production career is eligible. In your application, please indicate which track interests you most and briefly explain why.
Qualified applicants are encouraged to email their resume and cover letter to Human Resources at humanresources@citadeltheatre.com by May 18, 2026.
Given the potential start date of May 25, we encourage early applications. Only one position will be filled. We appreciate your interest in this opportunity. Only candidates selected for the next stage will be contacted.
The Citadel Theatre is committed to having our team reflect the community it serves and actively welcome applicants from diverse and equity-seeking backgrounds. The Citadel also endeavors to create and guard a culture of respect and cooperation with all staff, artists, colleagues, volunteers and internal/external parties.
The Citadel Theatre team lives, works, and creates in Amiskwaciwâskahikan (Edmonton), on Treaty No. 6 territory and the traditional and contemporary homeland of the Nehiyawak, Saulteaux, Stoney Nakoda, Haudenosaunee, Niitsitapi, Inuit, Dene, and Métis. We express deep gratitude for the knowledge that has long nurtured these lands. Treaty No. 6 was created with the intention of fostering harmonious co-existence. The Citadel recognizes our role and responsibility in being an active participant in reconciliation. In the spirit of reciprocity and respect, we seek to uphold the original intent of the Treaty and strive to create a shared narrative that honors our responsibility to this land and to each other.