Administrative & Artistic Internships

Thank you for your interest in Des Moines Metro Opera's Administrative and Artistic Internship program! Application are currently being accepted for the 2025 Festival Season. Applicants will need to prepare a resume and cover letter and submit an application by clicking the link below. Interviews for the internship positions will begin in early February.

If you have any questions, please contact Scott Arens, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, at sarens@dmmo.org or (515) 961-6221.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Des Moines Metro Opera offers exciting and enriching opportunities for young professionals and emerging leaders in the arts. Our administrative and artistic internships provide undergraduate and graduate students with an immersive experience at a prominent American summer opera festival. Interns collaborate with individual departments and professional staff, gaining hands-on experience and valuable networking opportunities in the field of professional theater. Our mission is to nurture future leaders poised to shape and innovate the arts industry.

The internship program runs from May 23 through July 25. All positions require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and may involve evening and weekend commitments.  Administrative and Artistic Interns receive a daily stipend of $60, a $30 performance stipend for each mainstage performance, and a $225 travel stipend paid upon arrival. Single-occupancy, air-conditioned, dormitory-style housing is provided during the festival season.

Internships will be offered in the following areas:

Artistic Administration Intern
The primary duties of the Artistic Administration Intern include assisting the Director of Artistic Administration and the Company Coordinator with daily operations for principal artists, the music and directing staff and the Apprentice Artist Program. Additional responsibilities include managing and assisting in driving for airport and other local ground transportation needs, assisting with the preparation of the daily schedule and creating printed programs for opera scene performances. The position will also prepare spaces for music rehearsals, classes and auditions, perform general office management in the theatre facility, prepare and operate supertitles in performances and serve as a child guardian as assigned. The successful candidate will be highly reliable, organized and able to stay positive and calm with a fluctuating schedule and assignments. Proficiency in Google Suite, Microsoft Word and Excel is a plus. A valid driver’s license is required. Housing and per diem provided.

Company Management Intern
The Company Management Intern will assist the Company Manager with duties relating to logistics and coordination of housing set-up and move-out for artists, stage management, and production staff in residence for the opera season. They will also serve as assistant to the House Manager at the Blank Performing Arts Center during the festival performances, helping coordinate volunteer ushers and attend to patron and guest needs as necessary. This position will also assist other administrative departments with special projects as needed and perform various public-facing duties during performances and events. Organization, communication, and interpersonal skills are required, as is the ability to lift 50 pounds and stand for extended periods of time. A valid driver’s license is required. Housing and per diem provided.

Guest Services Intern
The Guest Services Intern will assist with ticket sales and patron services utilizing the Patron Manager CRM software and organize and assist with the season’s special events and mainstage productions. Duties will include assisting in daily operations of the administrative office and responding to guest questions and concerns. This position will also assist other administrative departments with special projects as needed and perform various public-facing duties during performances and events. This position requires organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, as well as computer literacy with Microsoft Suite and Google Drive. Customer service skills are also important. A valid driver’s license is required. Access to a vehicle is highly recommended. Housing and per diem provided.

Orchestra Management Intern
Primary duties of the Orchestra Management Intern include assisting the Orchestra Manager with rehearsal room and pit set-up, transportation of instruments, inventory work, and attending all orchestra rehearsals and performances. This position will also assist other administrative departments with special projects as needed and perform various public-facing duties during performances and events. A background in music is preferred. This position works closely with conductors, orchestra members, and the stage operations team. Successful candidates will be highly organized, reliable, and have strong interpersonal skills. Some score/part preparation work will be involved, particularly for the STARS OF TOMORROW orchestral concert. A valid driver’s license is required. Access to a vehicle is highly recommended. Housing and per diem provided.