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College & post-grad
Semester in Residence
From this unique program, 99% of our participants have gone on to work professionally – at the Commonweal and at theatres across the country.
Details
This 13-week undergraduate residency program, in partnership with your school, offers you the opportunity to intern in your chosen area of focus while taking a broad range of structured classes. This is an immersive theatre experience – you will work with and be taught by the professional artists and administrators that make up the Commonweal. The program culminates in a final project. Designed to meet the needs of both the student and the Commonweal, internships may include stage management, administration, design/technical theatre, on-stage roles and understudy assignments.
Coursework
Classes are taught in Lanesboro by members of the Commonweal company, who possess either an M.F.A. or commensurate professional experience. Offerings include advanced courses in acting, directing and design. Students are also encouraged to take part in master classes taught by guest artists. Previous instructors include UCSD faculty member Charlie Oates and former Theatre de la Jeune Lune company member Luverne Seifert.
Housing
Three blocks fom the theatre, a fully-equipped Artists Residence houses students and company members as well as a design studio and classroom/rehearsal space.
Cost & Registration
Participants register through their school, paying registration and fees for a full credit semester. At institutions where housing is part of the tuition, the room cost for the semester will be included. Where housing is not included, the Commonweal will bill the student directly for a $1,000 housing fee. Meals are the responsibility of the student. There are three 13-week sessions annually: Spring (Feb.- May), Summer (May-Aug.), and Fall (Sept.-Dec.).
Application
To apply, please submit resume, letter of intent (including your area of interest), letter of recommendation, and application form. Actors will be asked to audition as part of the application process. Application deadlines: November 1 for spring semester, March 1 for summer semester, May 1 for fall semester.
For more information, contact Hal Cropp at (507) 467-2905 x203.