Job Opportunities

Available Positions with PSF

Main Summer Production/Admin Summer Casting WillPower Tour

The 2024 PSF Summer Company.

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival is a professional theatre company on the campus of DeSales University in Center Valley, PA and the Official Shakespeare Festival of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Each summer, PSF produces a season of Shakespeare and other classics, musical theatre, and children’s theatre, and each fall, PSF produces a Shakespeare tour that visits middle schools and high schools in PA, NJ, and DE. About an hour north of Philadelphia and less than two hours from Manhattan, PSF is summer home to over 200 artists from around the country, including winners and nominees of the Tony, Obie, Emmy, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, Jefferson, and Barrymore awards.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

About PSF:

Heading into the 2026 Summer Theatre Series, Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival operates on the campus of DeSales University. The Festival performs in both the 473-seat mainstage and the 187-seat black box at the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts on campus. PSF’s company of artists in recent years has included winners and nominees of the Tony, Emmy, Drama Desk, Hayes, Lortel, Jefferson, Barrymore, etc. and headliners from Broadway, television, feature film, etc. Coverage has included The Washington Post, Philadelphia Inquirer, etc., and The New York Times has identified PSF in two recent years as one of the leading summer theatre festivals in the nation. Each summer PSF produces a season of Shakespeare alongside other classics, musical theatre and children’s theatre.

The Mission of Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival is to enrich, inspire, engage, and entertain the widest possible audience through first-rate professional productions of classical and contemporary plays, with a core commitment to the works of Shakespeare and other dramatists, and through an array of educational outreach and mentorship programs.

At PSF, we believe that great theatre has the power to illuminate, unite, and inspire. Together, we are building a creative home where everyone is welcome, where stories reflect the world around us, and where the act of storytelling itself fosters a stronger, more connected community.

The Festival’s core Values: Quality, Shakespeare, Education, Relationships

2026 Summer Theatre Series: Legends and Legacy

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival’s 2026 season, titled “Legends and Legacy,” celebrates iconic stories and timeless characters through music, wit, and power. The season begins with August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson, directed by James Ijames, a poignant drama about family, history, and the struggle between preserving the past and shaping the future. Next, Million Dollar Quartet, directed by Jim Helsinger, channels the electricity of the 1956 Sun Records session that united Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins for one unforgettable night of rock ’n’ roll. The Complete Works of Jane Austen, Abridged, directed by Jessica Bedford, offers a fast-paced and witty celebration of Austen’s beloved novels, blending satire, charm, and literary joy. Running in repertory, Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, directed by Jason King Jones, revisits the passion and heartbreak of young love defying family feud, while Ken Ludwig’s Moriarty, directed by Matt Pfeiffer, follows the legendary detective in a thrilling and humorous face-off with his greatest adversary. The season concludes with Shakespeare’s Coriolanus, an “Extreme Shakespeare” production in which actors stage the play using original practices is an exploration of pride, politics, and loyalty that anchors this season of legends, music, and enduring stories.

Family programming includes an exciting sequel to last year’s The Princess and The Frog Prince – Sheila the Magical, and the beloved Shakespeare for Kids series, which brings Romeo and Juliet to life for young audiences both at Labuda and through its community library tour.

Apply via the PSF Application Portal with your cover letter, resume and (3) references

The overall season runs April 27 through Friday, August 07, 2026. Performances run from Tuesday, May 26 through Sunday, August 2, 2026. Contract dates vary by role, department, and show.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Production Management

Assistant Production Manager
Monday, April 27, 2026 thru Friday, August 7, 2026
$625.00/week + on-site housing provided

Assistant Production Manager (APM) is an integral part of the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival’s (PSF) summer production team. This position reports directly to the Director of Production. The APM’s responsibilities include facilitating communication, assisting in scheduling and supervision of general festival operations and technical departments, coordinating needs between FOH and production departments, working to maintain all production deadlines, budgets and petty cash, taking production meeting minutes and distributing, coordinating with the DeSales University facilities staff/assisting with facilities management and working to enforce safe working practices across departments.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. General experience in theatrical production and/or management required though we are not looking for specific departmental experience.

Administrative/Finance

Administrative Management Intern
Monday, May 11 thru Wednesday, August 5
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Administrative Management Intern will assist the Managing Director + Festival admin staff in the day-to-day responsibilities and tasks of their positions including, but not limited to, human resources, special events, accessibility, souvenir + concession management, database maintenance, list analysis, website, financial tracking, archives, proof reading, online research, etc. The intern will also assist House Management, Company Management, and some other departments on projects as needed. Previous office work and experience with Microsoft Office Suite preferred.

Financial Management Intern
Monday, May 11 thru Wednesday, August 5
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Financial Management Intern will assist the Business Manager + Festival admin staff in the day-to-day responsibilities and tasks of their positions including, but not limited to, accounting, financial reconciliation, bookkeeping, database maintenance, list analysis, financial tracking, and internal communications. The intern will also assist in finance bookkeeping for Production Management, Company Management, and other departments. Previous office work and experience with Microsoft Office Suite required.

Box Office:

Box Office Associate
Monday, May 11 thru Wednesday, August 5
$425.00/week + on-site housing provided

The box office associate processes all ticket sales and requests for all productions, events, and specialty dinners in the summer season and report directly to Box Office Manager and Associate Box Office Manager. The box office associate also serves as acting manager on duty for the children’s productions when the Box Office Manager and the Associate Box Office Manager are not in the office. All box office staff provide excellent customer service to all patrons and prospective patrons. Will work evenings and weekends. Prior experience with CueBox and/or any other Box Office software is preferred.

Box Office Intern
Monday, May 11 thru Wednesday, August 5
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

The box office interns process all ticket sales and requests for all productions, events, and specialty dinners in the summer season and report directly to Box Office Manager and Associate Box Office Manager. All box office staff provide excellent customer service to all patrons and prospective patrons. Will work evenings and weekends. Prior experience with CueBox and/or any other Box Office software is preferred.

House Management

House Manager
Wednesday, May 20 thru Wednesday, August 5
$550.00/week + on-site housing provided

The house manager supervises the smooth and gracious handling of audiences for all Festival productions from time of arrival to departure for the summer season which consists of eight productions in two venues over 10 weeks and works closely with a large volunteer group (over 200) in meeting the needs of the annual audience of 30,000. Also, includes supervision and nightly reconciliation of souvenirs, concessions and raffle sales. Looking for dynamic and energetic individuals with strong organizational and people skills, ability to work with grace under pressure, make quick decisions and handle emergencies.

Assistant House Manager
Wednesday, May 20 thru Wednesday, August 5
$450.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Assistant House Manager supervises the smooth and gracious handling of audiences for all Festival productions from time of arrival to departure for the summer season which consists of eight productions in two venues over 10 weeks and works closely with a large volunteer group (over 200) in meeting the needs of the annual audience of 30,000. Also, includes supervision and nightly reconciliation of souvenirs, concessions and raffle sales. Looking for dynamic and energetic individuals with strong organizational and people skills, ability to work with grace under pressure, make quick decisions and handle emergencies. Reports to House Manager.

Company Management

Lead Company Manager
April 27 – August 7
$650/week + on-site housing provided

The Company Manager is a key leader within the PA Shakes hospitality team, overseeing logistics, housing, and welfare for all artists and staff throughout the season. This role requires flexibility, excellent organizational skills, ability to maintain confidentiality, and a proactive approach to ensuring a comfortable and efficient environment for a rotating cast of actors and designers.

Responsibilities:

Housing & Hospitality: Manage and maintain company housing, ensuring accommodations are ready for incoming cast and crew members. Also responsible for turnover of housing during strike.
Transportation Coordination: Arrange a portion of travel logistics, including airport pickups, rental cars, and group transport as needed.
Personnel Support: Assist with HR-related tasks such as medical emergencies, workers’ compensation claims, mail distribution, and travel reimbursements.
Inventory & Supplies: Oversee maintenance and inventory of housing supplies and storage needs.
On-Site Support: Provide additional support during high-traffic times and events.
Events coordination: Organization and management of specific on-site events.

Requirements:

Proven experience in hospitality, company management, or a related field.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Effective management skills
Strong communications skills
A positive, proactive, and patient attitude.
Ability to work long, fulfilling hours as needed.
Driver’s License, DOT Health Clearance, and ability to drive company van and box truck. CDL not required.

Associate Company Manager
May 7 – August 9
$525/week + on-site housing provided

Associate CM reports directly to the CM and assists in all job functions.  Specific responsibilities are assigned by the Lead Company Manager but the expectation is that this position can cover the CM on their day off or if there is an issue that requires attention in more than one place at a time.  Previous company management experience preferred but other management/leadership experience is acceptable.  A positive and patient attitude are an absolute must.

Company Management Internship
May 18– August 9
$400/week + on-site housing provided

Company management experience is not required for this position.  The Assistant CM is typically a young SM/management type who wants to learn more about the administration and production of theatre.  CM responsibilities include company housing, transportation, HR-related issues (medical issues, workers comp, travel payments, etc), hospitality, rental cars, hotel like responsibilities for an ever rotating cast of actors and designers coming/going throughout the season, maintenance on housing supplies and storage, and additional on site management support during busy times.  A positive and patient attitude are an absolute must.

Stage Management

AEA Stage Manager/ AEA Assistant Stage Manager
Dates dependent on production(s)
AEA contract ref. to LORT

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical stage management and/or touring environs is required. The Stage Manager, Company Management and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Young Company Stage Manager (Non-Equity)
Friday, May 08, 2026 thru Saturday, August 01, 2026
$450.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Young Company Stage Manager will be responsible for all stage management duties associated with our Young Company touring production and on-site performances. The stage manager is responsible for overseeing all backstage elements, coordinating communication between the director, production management, cast, crew, and technical departments, managing rehearsal schedules, and ensuring the smooth running of a show by calling technical cues during performances, essentially acting as the central hub of the production to guarantee a seamless performance from start to finish. Additionally, Stage Manager is charged with driving company van and/or truck as required for touring productions and associated tasks.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical stage management and/or touring environs is required. The Stage Manager, Company Management and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Stage Management Interns
Mid-May May 2026 thru Wednesday, August 05, 2026
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

Start dates vary for the three different SM intern tracks. All contracts run thru Wednesday, August 05, 2026 . Interns will work alongside Equity Stage Managers and Assistant Stage Managers. There is the opportunity to learn from those you are working, but interns will also have assigned responsibilities ranging from photocopying to prop tracking, feeding lines and helping to run the deck backstage. Interns will also be a part of the repertory changeover crew.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical stage management and/or touring environs is required. The Stage Managers, Company Management and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Scene Shop

Technical Director
Monday April 27, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$1025.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Technical Director (TD) is a key leadership role within Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival’s summer production team.  The TD oversees all scenic elements from design to stage including drafting (as required), budget planning and adherence, scheduling, supervising crew, and problem solving. Additional day-to-day responsibilities include facilitating initial festival set-up and strike, providing leadership on the shop floor and on-site during installs, changeovers and loadouts, coordinating expenses with Production Management, communicating with designers (especially once they are on-site) and coordinating build space usage with the Charge Artist and Props Master. The TD, ATD and Shop Foreman work closely together to always ensure a professional and inclusive work environment.  The TD is responsible for maintaining a manageable work schedule for the entire Carpentry team to facilitate multiple ongoing builds and projects throughout the summer season. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities. Ideally, the TD is available in the winter and spring months for production meetings, drafting, and budget consultation (additionally compensated for achieved deliverables).

Assistant Technical Director
Thursday, May 07, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$625.00/week + on-site housing provided

Reporting to the Technical Director, the Assistant Technical Director is a key leadership role within the mainstage season at Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival.  While the TD is available to help advise and work through options, the ATD must be ready to handle full drafting assignments and work independently.  Additional day to day responsibilities include providing leadership on the shop floor and especially during install, coordinating expenses with production management, communicating with designers especially once they are on site and coordinating build space usage with the Charge Artist and Props Master.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical construction and/or touring environments is required . The TD, ATD, and Shop Supervisor work closely together to always ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Scene Shop Supervisor
Monday, May 11, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$575.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Scene Shop Supervisor reports directly to the Technical Director. This position helps to set long-term and daily deadlines and schedules. The Scene Shop Supervisor will have hands on all production builds throughout the season, but the primary responsibility is for supervising the carpenters, maintaining the shop, maintaining supply & material inventories, working out build techniques and teaching new and/or advanced skill sets to the newer carpenters. Exact construction needs and skills will vary per season but tend to remain in the realm of standard theatrical skills. Welding and/or rigging experience is preferred. Solid communication skills, being comfortable with long hours, while maintaining safety practices, and sharing workspace are all important. Must be capable of teaching on the go. Must be accustomed to meeting hard deadlines.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical construction and/or touring environs is required. The TD, ATD and Shop Supervisor work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Carpentry Intern
Monday, May 18, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

Interns work in the shop alongside our professional staff. For the most part these are theatrical construction positions but there are opportunities to shadow the Shop Supervisor and/or TDs for some additional experience. Interns will also be a part of the repertory changeover crew. Familiarity with carpentry and construction are a must, as is experience directly in a professional shop. Most specialty skills can be learned on site while working.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical construction and/or touring environs is required. The Scene Shop and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Run Crew

Deck Supervisor
Monday, May 18, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$600.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Deck Supervisor will work in the shop at the start of the contract and then transition into performance duties with shop support when tech begins. Ability to lead a crew, train more novice crew members, promote a safe working environment, and supervise repertory changeovers required. Prior regional theater and repertory is required along with familiarity with running and maintaining a counter-weight fly-house. Rigging experience is a plus. Maintaining a positive attitude and encouraging a positive experience for all involved during the long hours during changeover is vital.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical construction and/or touring environs is required. The Deck Crew, Scene Shop and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Run Crew Intern
Monday, May 18, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

Run Crew needs vary but include responsibilities ranging from moving scenic wagons and other stage changes to repairing set pieces, tracking props, basic stage maintenance, assisting stage management responsibilities, and participate in repertory changeovers . Must be comfortable in a backstage environment, capable of lifting, good at following detailed directions and asking follow-up questions as needed.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical construction and/or touring environs is required. The Deck Crew, Scene Shop and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Scenic

Scenic Charge Artist
Thursday, May 07, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$625.00/week + on-site housing provided

Charge Artist supervises the scenic artist, works with all scenic designers to determine the best treatment options for all paint needs and coordinates with the scene shop on space/set piece sharing. Exact needs vary widely from season to season. Charge Artist must come with a variety of skills to meet those needs and be comfortable trying new techniques on the go. With a very busy season with a lot of deadlines, the scenic department is often on an opposite schedule working late nights or overnights to keep pace with the build.

Scenic Artist
Monday, May 11, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$500.00/week + on-site housing provided

Exact scenic needs vary widely from season to season. Scenic Artist must come with a variety of skills to meet those needs and be comfortable trying new techniques on the go. The scenic artist will work closely with the scenic charge to plan how to accomplish the department’s goals. With a very busy season with a lot of deadlines, the scenic department is often on an opposite schedule working late nights or overnights in order to keep pace with the build.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical painting techniques and/or touring environs is required. The Scenic Artists, Scene Shop and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Scenic Intern
May 18 – August 31
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

Works with the Charge Artists to accomplish all paint treatments as designed. Must come with basic knowledge and experience but the specifics of the season can be taught on site as long as you are up for learning on the go. Interns will also be a part of the repertory changeover crew. Deadlines are tight and require picking up new skills quickly

Props

Props Supervisor
Thursday, May 07, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$625.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Props Supervisor leads a four-person department. Prop requirements always vary with the needs of the season but range from carpentry to crafts to upholstery to paints to shopping and/or rentals. There is a decent stock in storage on campus, but we rent quite a bit to supplement all built projects. Must be able to coordinate between an off-site designer and the rehearsal that is in progress. The Props Supervisor is also responsible for coordinating space use with other departments and for tool usage, maintaining prop storage, dealing with rehearsal prop needs for a very short rehearsal process and tracking a tight budget for multiple shows while still being realistic about directors needing/wanting last minute adds.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical props building and acquisition techniques and/or touring environs is required. The Props department, Scene Shop and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Props Assistant (Artisan)
Monday, May 11, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$500.00/week + on-site housing provided

Working as part of the team the Props Assistant (Artisan) must have prop experience, with carpentry and other specialized skills a plus. Each season has its own needs so being ready to learn and try new skills is also a must. This is a very fast moving organization that often needs its props ready for rehearsal yesterday. Multitasking is a must. Experience working in a resident theater dealing with both rehearsal props and show props for different overlapping productions is required.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical props building and acquisition techniques and/or touring environs is required. The Props department, Scene Shop and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Props Assistant (Carpenter)
Monday, May 11, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$500.00/week + on-site housing provided

Working as part of the team the Props Assistant (Carpenter) must come with basic carpentry skills and either experience or comfortability in props crafts. Upholstery, painting, and other props skills are helpful as well. Each season has its own needs so being ready to learn and try new skills is also a must. This is a very fast moving organization that often needs its props ready for rehearsal yesterday. Multitasking is a must. Experience working in a resident theater dealing with both rehearsal props and show props for different overlapping productions is required.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical props building and acquisition techniques and/or touring environs is required. The Props department, Scene Shop and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Props Intern
Monday, May 18, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Props Intern works as a part of a four person Props Department. Props always vary with the needs of the season but range from carpentry to crafts to upholstery to paints. We look to hire an array of skills across the department so let us know what your strengths are and the team is happy to help teach new skills along the way. Interns will also be a part of the repertory changeover crew. Comfortability in trying new techniques and working as a part of a team while learning is a must.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical props building and acquisition techniques and/or touring environs is required. The Props department, Scene Shop and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Costumes

Assistant Costume Shop Supervisor
Thursday, May 07, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$600/week + on-site housing provided

The Assistant Costume Shop Supervisor is an integral part of the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival’s (PSF) summer production team. This position reports directly to the Costume Shop Supervisor. Over the course of a nine-show summer season, the Assistant Costume Shop Supervisor responsibilities include, but are not limited to, communication with all Costume Designers, assisting in scheduling and oversight of all costume shop staffing, infrastructure, stock and rental needs. Further, the Assistant Costume Shop Supervisor will assist in maintaining all established production deadlines, budgets and expenditures, attend production meetings as needed, enforce safe working practices across the Costume Department and coordinate with the Costume Shop Supervisor and DeSales University’s school year Costume Shop department head to ensure a seamless handover of University resources at top of season and upon season conclusion.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical costuming and/or touring environs required. The Costume Department, Wardrobe, Hair/Makeup and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Cutter/Draper
Thursday, May 07, 2026 thru Sunday, July 19, 2026
$800.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Cutter/Draper is responsible for working with the Costume Designer and Costume Shop Supervisor in the construction and preparation of all assigned production costumes. The Cutter/Draper needs to be experienced in interpreting sketches and drawings, determining yardage for fabric and trims, fabricating patterns by either draping or flat patterning, fitting and altering costumes to actors, supervising the work of First Hands, Stitchers and Interns, maintaining a clean and safe workspace, and completing assigned costumes within deadlines. The Cutter/Draper needs to be self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and effectively support the shop within the fast-paced summer season.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical costuming and/or touring environs is required. The Costume Department, Wardrobe, Hair/Makeup and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

First Hand
Monday May 11, 2026 thru Sunday, July 19, 2026
$600.00/week + on-site housing provided

The First Hand assists the Cutter/Draper in the construction of new costumes and the preparation and alteration of stock/rental costumes for use in the productions. The First Hand needs to be experienced in pattern layout and cutting, assisting in fittings and measurements, preparing work for Stitchers and Interns and leading the sewing and construction of assigned costumes, completing hand and finishing work as assigned, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment. The First Hand needs to be able to follow instructions, work independently, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and effectively support the shop within the fast-paced summer season.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical costuming and/or touring environs is required. The Costume Department, Wardrobe, Hair/Makeup and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Costume Shop Craftsperson
Thursday, May 07, 2026 thru Sunday, July 19, 2026
$600.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Costume Shop Craftsperson is responsible for working with the Costume Designer and Costume Shop Manager in the creation, construction, and preparation of all costume crafts, including but not limited to millinery, footwear, jewelry, masks, etc. The Craftsperson needs to be experienced in interpreting sketches and drawings, creating costume craft items from a variety of materials, fabricating patterns for craft items, fitting performers, modifying stock items, and maintaining a clean and safe workspace. The Craftsperson needs to be self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and effectively support the shop within the fast-paced summer season.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical costuming and/or touring environs is required. The Costume Department, Wardrobe, Hair/Makeup and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Costume Shop Stitchers
Monday, May 11, 2026 thru Sunday, July 19, 2026
$425.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Costume Shop Stitcher works under the supervision of the Cutter/Draper and First Hand in the preparation and creation of all assigned production costumes. The Stitcher should have intermediate-advanced experience in sewing by hand and machine, basic alterations, garment construction, finishing assigned projects in a timely manner, and maintaining a clean and safe workspace. Complex or advanced skills can be taught in house. The Stitcher needs to be able to follow instructions and work independently within the fast-paced summer season.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical costuming and/or touring environs is required. The Costume Department, Wardrobe, Hair/Makeup and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Costume Shop/Wardrobe Intern
Monday, May 18, 2026 thru Sunday, July 19, 2026
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Costume Shop Intern works under the supervision of the Cutter/Draper and First Hand in the preparation and creation of all assigned production. The Costume Shop Interns should have beginner-intermediate level experience in sewing by hand and machine, basic alterations, garment construction, finishing assigned projects in a timely manner, and maintaining a clean and safe workspace. The Costume Shop Intern needs to be able to follow instructions and work independently within the fast-paced summer season.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical costuming and/or touring environs is required. The Costume Department, Wardrobe, Hair/Makeup and Production Management work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Wardrobe

Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor
Friday May 15, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$620.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Assitant Wardrobe Supervisor will assist in supervising a Wardrobe team of 5 members—The Wardrobe Supervisor, Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor, and 3 Wardrobe Interns. The Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor is responsible for ensuring the performances run smoothly for every production in the Schubert Theatre, which includes tracking, changing, quick changing, maintaining, and continuing consistency of the original Costume Design. The Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor will work with Wardrobe Supervisor and the Costume Shop Manager to identify needs for supplies, equipment, and materials. The Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor is responsible for maintaining duties assigned by Wardrobe Supervisor for all Wardrobe Crew members, including adhering to call times, dressing tracks, daily maintenance, repairs, and laundry, and Strike duties. The Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor needs a solid background in construction and alterations and will be expected to help in the Costume Shop at the beginning of the season as duties allow. The Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor needs to have excellent communication and time management skills, strong organizational and computer skills, and the ability to work productively under time pressures and to meet deadlines. The Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor needs to be self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, maintain a professional demeanor when working backstage with performers, maintain a clean and safe workplace, and effectively support the productions within the fast-paced summer season.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical costuming and/or touring environs is required. The Wardrobe, Wig/Hair & Make-Up, Costume and Production Management departments work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Wardrobe Interns
Monday, May 18, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Wardrobe Interns work under the supervision of the Wardrobe Supervisor and the Costume Shop Manager. During non-show weeks, the Wardrobe Interns will work in the Costume Shop with the Cutter/Draper and First Hand in the preparation and creation of all assigned production. The Wardrobe Interns will provide costume assistance to actors in their dressing rooms and/or backstage. Wardrobe Interns will assist with Strike at the end of the Season. The Wardrobe Interns needs to be able to follow instructions, maintain a professional demeanor when working backstage with performers, and work independently within the fast-paced summer season.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical costuming and/or touring environs is required. The Wardrobe, Wig/Hair & Make-Up, Costume and Production Management departments work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Hair, Wig & Make-Up

Hair, Wig & Make-Up Supervisor
Thursday, May 07, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$650.00/week + on-site housing provided

The hair, wig and make-up Supervisor is part of a three-person team led by the Supervisor who works directly with the various costume designers and the Costume Shop Supervisor.  Once designs are settled, the Supervisor works with the assistant and intern to ensure all looks are taught to each actor and/or wardrobe, assists those with more complicated looks or multiple changes to maintain the design on a nightly basis and all wigs are maintained for the full season run.  The Festival does have a small stock that we pull from but relies on rentals that need to be treated well and returned in top condition to maintain our ongoing rental relationships.  PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. The Supervisor must be comfortable mentoring others and teaching an assistant and intern who is often a young professional just getting into hair/wig/make-up. Some run responsibilities are possible.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical costuming and/or touring environs is required. The Wig/Hair & Make-Up, Wardrobe, Costume and Production Management departments work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Assistant Hair, Wig & Make-up Supervisor
Monday, May 11, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$525.00/week + on-site housing provided

The hair, wig and make-up department is a three-person team that works directly with the various costume designers.  The department ensures all looks are taught to each actor and/or wardrobe, assists those with more complicated looks or multiple changes to maintain the design on a nightly basis and all wigs are maintained for the full season run.  The Assistant will have some run responsibilities once shows begin to tech. Professional hair/wig experience is not required but some amount of theatrical wig experience is preferred.  Basic wig maintenance experience is preferred, but specific techniques can be taught as needed.  Experience as a dresser is a plus since this person may be used to assist with costume quick changes in addition to wig changes. PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. This position is often filled by someone becoming interested in this niche of theatre and is up for the challenge of learning a lot, quickly, while on the job.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical costuming and/or touring environs is required. The Wig/Hair & Make-Up, Wardrobe, Costume and Production Management departments work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Hair, Wig and Makeup Intern
Monday, May 18, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

The hair, wig and makeup intern will work as a part of the hair, wig and makeup team.  While there will be some wig maintenance duties, the hair, wig and makeup intern will be primarily responsible for assisting performers both before and during performances as needed, sometimes working with performers from multiple productions at the same time.  Basic wig maintenance experience is preferred, but specific techniques can be taught as needed.  Experience as a dresser is a plus since this person may be used to assist with costume quick changes in addition to wig changes.  PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. This position is often filled by someone becoming interested in this niche of theatre and is up for the challenge of learning a lot, quickly, while on the job.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical costuming and/or touring environs is required. The Wig/Hair & Make-Up, Wardrobe, Costume and Production Management departments work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Electrics

Assistant Lighting Supervisor
Monday, May 11, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$525.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Assistant Lighting Supervisor helps to supervise the staff electrician, Lighting Interns and Follow Spot operators. The Lighting Department plans, hangs, focuses and then maintains all shows in the season. The position must be comfortable working with and teaching the interns while still meeting deadlines. Both theatres are mainly conventional equipment, but each space has two VL1100’s and an expanding assortment of LED fixtures. Each venue uses an ETC EOS Family console. Must be comfortable working at heights including grid walking, working in genies, basic ladder work, working with varying types of dimming racks, and troubleshooting,

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical lighting and electrics and/or touring environs is required. The Lighting and Production Management departments work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Lighting Interns
Monday, May 18, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

The Lighting Interns are a critical part of the lighting department. There is a lot of teaching along the way but interns are expected to already be comfortable with basic hanging, cabling and focusing as well as ladders, genies and grid walking (all of these can be taught as long as you are comfortable learning). Everyone will get their hands on all types of equipment we use from conventional equipment to moving lights, LED tech and spots. Each intern will likely rotate through spot op, board op and programming responsibilities throughout the season. Interns will also serve on the repertory changeover crew.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical lighting and electrics and/or touring environs is required. The Lighting and Production Management departments work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Sound

Assistant Sound Supervisor
Monday, May 11, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$525.00/week + on-site housing provided

Reports directly to the Sound Supervisor and works with the Sound Supervisor and Sound Interns to maintain the sound systems of the performing arts center and touring equipment. Show specific adds/installs will happen for each production including supplemental speakers, sound reinforcement, and video monitors as needed. Additional show run responsibilities or work with On The Green, our daily live music during preshow, will also be assigned. Experience with the Yamaha CL series consoles, QLab and Dante is required. Ability to maintain a positive attitude and teach techniques to the intern while working are needed.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical lighting and electrics and/or touring environs is required. The Sound and Production Management departments work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Sound Intern
Monday, May 18, 2026 thru Wednesday, August 5, 2026
$300.00/week + on-site housing provided

Works with the Sound Supervisor and Assistant to maintain the sound system of the performing arts center. There are also show specific adds/installs that will happen along the way. Additional responsibilities include looking after On The Green, our daily live music in front of the building during preshow hours, run responsibilities on various shows (either board op-ing and/or A2 responsibilities), general maintenance and especially microphone maintenance. Interns will also serve on the repertory changeover crew.

PSF’s summer theatre series is a fast-paced work environment necessitating strong multitasking and data tracking skills. An ideal candidate will be team and goal oriented and receptive to the adaptive problem solving required to mitigate the ever-evolving needs of a vigorous theatre series. Patience and mediation skills are required to ensure a professional and inclusive work environment at all times. Established experience in theatrical lighting and electrics and/or touring environs is required. The Sound and Production Management departments work closely together to ensure a smooth and inclusive work environment at all times. Safety and precision are our foremost priorities.

Overhire

General Overhire
If you are local (or in our general area) and looking for periodic work but not full summer jobs, let us know! We are always looking to expand our database of available hands/skilled workers. Include a resume, your expected availability (if you know it) between May and August, and what various departments you work in. No specific deadline here, feel free to submit your info at any time.

VIDEO SUBMISSION:

Currently, performers and artists attending in-person auditions will be given primary consideration. If you are attending the auditions, we welcome you to also contribute a video submission!

Video submissions should be made using the following google form:

SUBMIT HERE

UPCOMING AUDITIONS

EQUITY PRINCIPAL AUDITIONS for the 2027 PSF Summer Theatre Series

Saturday, September 26, 2026, Center Valley: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM at Studio Theatre at the Labuda Center, 2755 Station Ave. Center Valley, PA (accompanist will be available from 9:30AM-1:30PM ) We are scheduling appointments for our EPAs using the following booking form. Please be sure to check the correct date for your appointment, and we look forward to seeing you on September 26^th.

Monday, September 28, 2026, NYC: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM at the Equity Building, Studio A, 165 W. 46^th St. NY, NY. All auditions should be scheduled through the AEA member portal. Your request will not be processed by PSF.

CASTNG EQUITY ACTORS for roles in Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival’s 2027 productions. Please see the AEA Member portal for individual production details or see the production breakdown in the next section.

All principal roles will be understudied.

Please prepare a monologue no longer than three minutes OR 48 bars from a song from your book OR a 90-second monologue and 32 bars of a song. Auditions should not exceed 2 minutes. Please bring a copy of your headshot and resume.

For non-AEA members, if we have time available, we welcome walk-in auditions at our Center Valley auditions. Sign-up is at the location, and Equity Walk-ins will have priority.

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival is committed to hiring actors who reflect the diversity of our world. Actors of all backgrounds, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, ages, and abilities are encouraged to audition.

Productions Breakdown

SHOWS:

OTHELLO
HAIRSPRAY
FAT HAM
KING LEAR (REP)
NOISES OFF (REP)
THE WINTER’S TALE

OTHELLO

Playwright: William Shakespeare

Performance Space: The Schubert Theatre

Director: Matt Pfeiffer

Tentative Dates:

Pre-Rehearsal Week: 5/4/2027

Rehearsals Begin in Philly: 5/11/2027

Tech for OTHELLO: 5/28/2027

Previews for OTHELLO: 6/2/2027

Opening for OTHELLO: 6/4/2027

Closing for OTHELLO: 6/20/2027

Production Note: The rehearsals will be in Philadelphia, and with the spacing and performances at Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival. Philadelphia-based casting.

Synopsis

Othello has risen through the ranks of the Venetian military on courage, intelligence, and leadership. After secretly marrying Desdemona, he becomes the target of his trusted ensign, Iago, whose manipulation turns jealousy into suspicion, then obsession, then violence. As lies replace truth and loyalty gives way to mistrust, Othello’s world collapses. Shakespeare’s tragedy examines love, race, power, and the cost of deception.

Character Breakdown

Othello – THIS ROLE IS CAST. 30s-40s, General of the Venetian army, a Moor and outsider in Venetian society. Commanding, eloquent, and deeply in love with Desdemona. Descends from confidence into jealous rage under Iago’s manipulation. Strong stage presence required.

Iago – THIS ROLE IS CAST. 20s-30s, Othello’s trusted ensign, the play’s antagonist. Charming, intelligent, and without conscience. Master manipulator who turns every character against each other while maintaining a mask of loyalty. Demands an actor who can hold the audience’s confidence even while plotting destruction.

Desdemona – 20s, Daughter of Venetian senator Brabantio, newly and secretly married to Othello. Brave, devoted, and outspoken in defense of her marriage. Strength gives way to confusion and fear as Othello turns against her.

Cassio – 20s-30s, Othello’s lieutenant, promoted over Iago’s head. Charming, well-liked, a bit naive about how he’s perceived. Becomes the unwitting tool of Iago’s plot against Othello and Desdemona.

Emilia – 30s-40s, Iago’s wife and Desdemona’s attendant. Loyal to Desdemona, sharper and more clear-eyed than her husband gives her credit for. Delivers the play’s reckoning with Iago in the final act.

Brabantio – 50s-60s, Venetian senator and Desdemona’s father. Proud, protective, and outraged by his daughter’s secret marriage. May double with Duke of Venice or Gratiano.

Roderigo – 20s-30s, A wealthy, lovesick Venetian gentleman pining for Desdemona. Gullible and easily manipulated by Iago, who drains him for money and uses him as a pawn. Comedic undertones with a tragic end.

Bianca – 20s-30s, A courtesan in Cyprus and Cassio’s lover. Spirited and quick-tempered, drawn into Iago’s scheme without her knowledge.

Duke of Venice, Montano, and Lodovico – 30s-60s, Venetian and Cyprian officials who appear across the play’s political scenes. Authoritative, composed. Strong candidates for doubling with each other or with Brabantio and Gratiano.

Gratiano – 30s-50s, Brabantio’s brother, accompanies Lodovico to Cyprus. May double with Duke of Venice or Montano.

HAIRSPRAY

Music: Marc Shaiman

Lyrics: Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman

Book: Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan

Performance Space: Mainstage

Director/Choreographer: Ashleigh King

Tentative Dates:

Pre-Rehearsal Week: 5/18/2027

Rehearsals Begin: 5/25/2027

Tech Begins: 6/11/2027

Previews Begin: 6/16/2027

Opening: 6/18/2027

Closing: 7/4/2027

Synopsis

In 1962 Baltimore, plus-size teenager Tracy Turnblad dreams of dancing on the Corny Collins Show. She wins a spot, becomes an overnight sensation, and uses her newfound platform to challenge the show’s segregation policy. Along the way, she finds romance, stands up to the reigning queen of teen TV, and rallies her city toward integration. This high-energy musical comedy pairs irresistible 60s pop sound with a genuine message about acceptance and change.

Character Breakdown

TRACY TURNBLAD – Teens, our big-hearted heroine with big hair and bigger dreams. Boundless energy, strong comedic instincts, and a passion for dance. Excellent singer/dancer, carries the show.

EDNA TURNBLAD – 40s-50s, Tracy’s mother, traditionally played by a man in drag. Insecure and housebound at the start, blossoms into a confident force by the finale. Strong comedic timing and vocal range required.

WILBUR TURNBLAD – 40s-50s, Tracy’s father and joke-shop owner. Warm, devoted, a little goofy. Strong comedic chemistry with Edna essential.

LINK LARKIN – Teens-20s, heartthrob lead dancer on the Corny Collins Show. Charming, a touch vain, develops real conscience over the course of the show. Strong singer/dancer.

PENNY PINGLETON – Teens, Tracy’s sheltered, awkward best friend. Quirky and sweet, finds her voice through her romance with Seaweed.

SEAWEED J. STUBBS – Teens, Motormouth Maybelle’s son and gifted dancer. Confident and charismatic, leads the push for integration on the show. Strong dancer required.

VELMA VON TUSSLE – 40s-50s, ruthless station manager and pageant mom. Glamorous, openly antagonistic, sharp comic villainy. Strong singer.

AMBER VON TUSSLE – Teens, Velma’s spoiled daughter and reigning Miss Hairspray. Entitled, Tracy’s chief rival.

MOTORMOUTH MAYBELLE – 40s-50s, R&B radio DJ and host of Negro Day. Powerful voice, dignified strength, anchors the show’s emotional core. Showstopping vocal feature required.

LITTLE INEZ – Pre-teens-teens, Maybelle’s daughter and talented dancer. Spirited and fearless.

CORNY COLLINS – 30s-40s, charismatic TV host. Smooth, likable, becomes an ally to Tracy and Seaweed.

ENSEMBLE – Excellent singer/dancer/actor with strong comedic timing. Includes Corny Collins Show dancers, Baltimore residents, and featured specialty roles (Prudy Pingleton, Mr. Pinky, Harriman Spritzer, The Dynamites). Parts and specialties will be assigned.

FAT HAM

Playwright: James Ijames
Performance Space: Schubert Theatre
Director: Lindsay Smiling

Tentative Dates:

Pre-Rehearsal Week: 6/1/2027

Rehearsals Begin: 6/8/2027

Tech Begins: 6/25/2027

Previews Begin: 6/30/2027

Opening: 7/2/2027

Closing: 7/11/2027

Synopsis
At a backyard barbecue in the American South, Juicy grapples with grief, sexuality, and the ghost of his murdered father, who demands revenge. A queer, comic reimagining of Hamlet, Fat Ham trades the Danish court for a family cookout and trades tragedy for the possibility of breaking the cycle altogether. Funny, sharp, and deeply moving, the play asks what happens when a young man refuses to inherit his father’s violence.

Character Breakdown

JUICY – 20s, our soft-spoken, introspective protagonist, a queer Black man working on an online college degree. Sensitive, witty, and burdened by his father’s legacy. Carries the show, demands a performer of real emotional range and sharp comic timing.

REV / PAP – 40s-50s, Juicy’s uncle (and new stepfather), plus the ghost of Juicy’s murdered father. Played by the same actor in both roles. Pap is menacing and demanding; Rev is charming on the surface, controlling underneath. Strong vocal presence, commanding physicality.

TEDRA – 40s-50s, Juicy’s mother, newly remarried to Rev. Vibrant, sensual, fiercely loving toward Juicy though often oblivious to his pain. Strong comedic instincts paired with real emotional depth.

LARRY – 20s, Rev’s son, a Marine home on leave. Disciplined and guarded on the surface, secretly in love with Juicy. Requires stillness and control, with an undercurrent of longing.

OPAL – 20s, Rabby’s daughter, queer and unapologetically herself. Sharp-tongued, confident, uninterested in the gender expectations everyone keeps pushing on her.

RABBY – 40s-50s, family friend and Opal’s mother, devoutly religious. Comedic, a bit rigid, genuinely loving underneath her judgment.

TIO – 20s, Juicy’s cousin and best friend. Goofy, loyal, and unexpectedly wise. Strong comedic timing, grounds the show’s heart alongside Juicy.

KING LEAR

Performed in Repertory with NOISES OFF

Playwright: William Shakespeare
Performance Space: Mainstage
Director: Jason King Jones

Tentative Dates:

Pre-Rehearsal Week: 6/4/2027

Rehearsals Begin: 6/11/2027

Tech for KING LEAR Begins: 7/17/2027

Previews for KING LEAR Begin: 7/22/2027

Opening for KING LEAR: 7/24/2027

Tech for NOISES OFF: 7/9/2027

Previews for NOISES OFF: 7/14/2027

Opening for NOISES OFF: 7/16/2027

Closing for NOISES OFF: 8/7/2027

Closing for KING LEAR: 8/8/2027

Synopsis
Aging King Lear divides his kingdom among his three daughters, rewarding flattery and banishing the one daughter who loves him honestly. The decision unravels his family, his sanity, and his kingdom, plunging Lear into madness and Britain into civil war. Shakespeare’s tragedy is a brutal study of power, loyalty, and the cost of pride, building toward one of the most devastating final acts in the canon.

Character Breakdown

KING LEAR – THIS ROLE IS CAST. 60s-80s, aging King of Britain. Proud, imperious, and undone by his own vanity. Descends into madness over the course of the play. Demands a performer of enormous range and stamina. (Cast)

GONERIL – 30s-40s, Lear’s eldest daughter. Calculating, ambitious, ruthless in pursuit of power.

REGAN – 30s-40s, Lear’s second daughter. Cruel and competitive with Goneril, capable of real savagery.

CORDELIA – THIS ROLE IS CAST. 20s-30s, Lear’s youngest daughter, banished for refusing to flatter him. Honest, dignified, and devoted despite her exile.

EARL OF GLOUCESTER – THIS ROLE IS CAST. 50s-70s, a nobleman with two sons, blind to his own son’s treachery until it costs him his sight. Strong emotional range required.

EDGAR – 20s-30s, Gloucester’s legitimate son, wrongly accused of betrayal. Disguises himself as Poor Tom to survive. Versatile actor, strong physical and vocal range.

EDMUND – 20s-30s, Gloucester’s illegitimate son, the play’s chief schemer. Charismatic, ruthless, and openly contemptuous of social order. Strong stage presence.

EARL OF KENT – 40s-60s, Lear’s loyal advisor, banished early for defending Cordelia, disguises himself to continue serving the king. Steady, commanding presence.

THE FOOL – THIS ROLE IS CAST. Adult, Lear’s jester and conscience. Sharp wit, strong comedic timing balanced with genuine pathos. Often doubles or is paired closely with Cordelia in staging tradition.

DUKE OF ALBANY – 30s-50s, Goneril’s husband, increasingly disturbed by his wife’s cruelty. Measured, develops a moral backbone as the play progresses.

DUKE OF CORNWALL – 30s-50s, Regan’s husband, brutal and remorseless. Strong physical presence for the play’s violent turns.

OSWALD – 20s-40s, Goneril’s steward, loyal to a fault and willing to do her dirty work. Often doubled.

KING OF FRANCE – 30s-50s, Cordelia’s suitor and later husband, recognizes her worth when others reject her. Often doubled.

DUKE OF BURGUNDY – 30s-50s, Cordelia’s other suitor, withdraws his offer once she’s disinherited. Often doubled.

CURAN, A GENTLEMAN, A KNIGHT, A HERALD, A DOCTOR, AN OLD MAN – Various ages, supporting roles throughout the court and countryside scenes. Strong candidates for doubling across the ensemble.

NOISES OFF

Performed in Repertory with KING LEAR

Playwright: Michael Frayn
Performance Space: Mainstage
Director: Jennifer Childs

Important Dates:

Pre-Rehearsal Week: 6/4/2027

Rehearsals Begin: 6/11/2027

Tech for KING LEAR Begins: 7/17/2027

Previews for KING LEAR Begin: 7/22/2027

Opening for KING LEAR: 7/24/2027

Tech for NOISES OFF: 7/9/2027

Previews for NOISES OFF: 7/14/2027

Opening for NOISES OFF: 7/16/2027

Closing for NOISES OFF: 8/7/2027

Closing for KING LEAR: 8/8/2027

Synopsis
A touring theater company struggles to mount a creaky British sex farce called Nothing On, and everything that can go wrong does. Act One shows a disastrous dress rehearsal. Act Two flips the set around to reveal the offstage chaos, jealousy, and sabotage unfolding backstage during a later performance. Act Three shows the show in complete collapse weeks later. A backstage farce about a farce, demanding pinpoint physical comedy and split-second timing.

Character Breakdown

LLOYD DALLAS – THIS ROLE IS CAST. 30s-50s, the increasingly exasperated director of Nothing On. Dry wit, mounting desperation, caught in the middle of his cast’s offstage entanglements.

DOTTY OTLEY – THIS ROLE IS CAST. 50s-60s, plays Mrs. Clackett in Nothing On, an aging actress who’s sunk her savings into the production. Warm, scattered, prone to forgetting props and lines alike. Strong physical comedy required.

GARRY LEJEUNE – 30s-40s, plays Roger in Nothing On, Dotty’s jealous and excitable boyfriend offstage. Explosive energy, exceptional physical comedy, demands real stamina (notably the staircase and trousers sequence).

BROOKE ASHTON – 20s-30s, plays Vicki in Nothing On, a self-absorbed young actress who loses her contact lens at the worst possible moments. Deadpan delivery, unwavering commitment regardless of chaos around her.

FREDERICK FELLOWES – 40s-60s, plays Philip Brent in Nothing On, a nervous, nosebleed-prone actor who needs constant motivation for his choices. Gentle, anxious energy, strong comic timing.

BELINDA BLAIR – THIS ROLE IS CAST. 40s-50s, plays Flavia Brent in Nothing On, the company’s peacemaker, married offstage but aware of everyone’s secrets. Warm, quick, holds the group together.

SELSDON MOWBRAY – THIS ROLE IS CAST. 60s-70s, plays the Burglar in Nothing On, an elderly actor with a serious drinking problem who keeps vanishing before his cues. Excellent comic timing, scene-stealing presence in small doses.

TIM ALLGOOD – 20s-30s, the company’s overworked stage manager, drafted into performing when an actor goes missing. Frantic, good-natured, stretched far too thin.

POPPY NORTON-TAYLOR – 20s-30s, the assistant stage manager, quietly pregnant and quietly devoted to Lloyd. Anxious, eager to please, often overlooked.

THE WINTER’S TALE

Playwright: William Shakespeare

Performance Space: Schubert

Important Dates:

Pre-Rehearsal: 7/13/2027

Rehearsals Begin: 7/16/2027

Previews Begin: 7/21/2027

Opening: 7/23/2027

Closing: 8/8/2027

Synopsis
King Leontes of Sicilia is gripped by sudden, baseless jealousy, convinced his wife Hermione has betrayed him with his oldest friend, Polixenes. His rage destroys his family and sets a tragedy in motion, but the play turns toward forgiveness and wonder as time passes, a lost daughter is found, and a statue seems to come to life. Part tragedy, part fairy tale, The Winter’s Tale moves from jealousy and loss to reconciliation and grace. Actors for this production will be paid to come to the first rehearsal off-book and will utilize “original practices” to stage the production themselves.

Character Breakdown (many roles will be double cast)

Leontes – 30s-50s, King of Sicilia, consumed by sudden and irrational jealousy. Commanding presence required, must chart a believable descent into paranoia and a long road toward remorse.

Hermione – THIS ROLE IS CAST. 30s-40s, Queen of Sicilia, falsely accused of infidelity by her husband. Dignified, resilient, must hold the audience’s sympathy through public humiliation and years of absence.

Polixenes – 30s-50s, King of Bohemia and Leontes’s childhood friend, wrongly accused of betraying him. Warm and reasonable, his friendship with Leontes must feel genuine to make the king’s jealousy land as tragedy.

Paulina – 30s-50s, Hermione’s fierce and outspoken attendant. Sharp tongue, moral backbone, the one character bold enough to challenge Leontes directly. Strong comedic timing and commanding presence.

Perdita – Teens-20s, Leontes and Hermione’s daughter, abandoned as an infant and raised as a shepherdess. Open-hearted, graceful, central to the play’s turn toward renewal in the second half.

Florizel – Teens-20s, Prince of Bohemia, Polixenes’s son, in love with Perdita despite the difference in their stations. Earnest, romantic, willing to defy his father.

Autolycus – 20s-40s, a charming rogue, pickpocket, and peddler. Excellent comic timing, musicality, and improvisational energy required. Often the audience’s favorite.

Camillo – 40s-60s, a loyal Sicilian lord who refuses to murder Polixenes and flees with him instead. Steady, principled, the moral center of the Sicilian court.

Antigonus – 40s-60s, a Sicilian lord ordered to abandon the infant Perdita, met with a famously abrupt end. Gentle, sympathetic, strong physical commitment for the play’s most notorious stage direction.

Old Shepherd – 50s-70s, finds and raises Perdita as his own. Warm, plainspoken, strong comedic instincts.

Clown (Young Shepherd) – 20s-30s, the Old Shepherd’s son. Goofy, good-natured, strong comic timing.

Time – Adult, the choral figure who narrates the sixteen-year gap between the play’s two halves. Commanding vocal presence.

ABOUT PSF:

A leading Shakespeare festival with an emerging national reputation for excellence, Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival is a professional theatre company on the campus of DeSales University.

Each summer, PSF produces a season of Shakespeare and other classics, musical theatre, and children’s theatre. About an hour north of Philadelphia and less than two hours from Manhattan, PSF is summer home to over 200 artists from around the country, including winners and nominees of the Tony, Obie, Emmy, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, Jefferson, and Barrymore awards. Every year 40,000-50,000 patrons attend PSF from 30+ states – over 1,000,000 patrons from 50 states and many countries since 1992.

Our Mission and Values:

The 2026 WillPower Tour is cast. Thanks so much for your interest, and please check out the Summer Casting tab for upcoming auditions.