The Spoleto Festival USA Apprenticeship Program is a unique, hands-on opportunity for college-age and early-career professionals to develop skills under the mentorship of experienced arts administrators and technicians. Apprentices play a key role in the production of an internationally renowned arts festival, gaining invaluable professional experience in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.
Apprenticeships are available for 4+ndash;6 weeks, with some roles beginning as early as April 27, 2026. Many colleges and universities recognize this program as a paid internship for academic credit. Alumni of the program have gone on to careers at major arts organizations and production companies worldwide.
What Apprentices Receive
Weekly Salary:
$600 for new apprentices.
$650 for returning apprentices from the 2025 season.
Travel Stipend (for those residing outside Charleston, SC):
$150 for 50+ndash;499 miles traveled.
$250 for 500+ndash;999 miles traveled.
$350 for 1,000+ miles traveled.
Note: This stipend is considered taxable income.
Housing Options (for those residing outside Charleston, SC):
Free dormitory housing at the College of Charleston with shared living spaces, shared bathrooms, and a communal kitchen and social space.
OR a one-time housing stipend of $40 per workday (must reside outside Charleston, SC and not use Festival-provided housing). Note: This stipend is considered taxable income.
Festival Access Badge:
Complimentary tickets to select Festival performances, based on availability.
What to Expect
Apprentices should anticipate a work schedule that typically consists of 40+ hours per week, six days per week. Long workdays, evening shifts, and weekend work are common. Apprentices are expected to approach challenges with professionalism, adaptability, and a strong commitment to excellence.
General Requirements
Must be at least 18 years of age (21+ for select positions due to insurance requirements).
Must be able to pass and maintain a clear background check.
For roles with driving requirements, candidates must possess and maintain a valid driver+rsquo;s license.
Must reside in Charleston, SC for the entirety of the apprenticeship (approximately May 10+ndash;June 7, 2026).
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for the duration of the engagement. Spoleto Festival USA does not petition for or sponsor visas. Acceptable documentation includes U.S. citizenship, permanent residency (green card), or CPT authorization through a U.S. institution. OPT may not align with spring graduation timelines, so please consult your international student advisor to confirm eligibility.
Flexibility to work long hours, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Physical requirements include standing for long periods, frequent movement, and lifting up to 40 pounds. Must be comfortable and able to work in the following conditions: low light or no light environments, standing for long periods of time, exposure to the elements, and loud noise. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with the ADA.
Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner.
Demonstrated commitment to fostering an equitable, accessible, and inclusive environment for Festival staff, artists, audiences, and communities.
Application Process
Please visit https://spoletousa.org/get-involved/apprenticeships/ for additional details, role descriptions, and to apply.
Dates and Deadlines
The priority deadline for all applications is January 1, 2026.
Spoleto Festival USA is an equal opportunity employer and committed to diversity in hiring. Equity is central to our culture, mission, and who we are as an arts organization. Spoleto Festival USA does not discriminate in employment on the basis of an individual+rsquo;s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, hairstyles or hair texture, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, individuals with disabilities, pregnancy, parental status, marital status, military status, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law. Our greatest strength comes from our ability to come together as unique individuals +mdash; come as you are and bring the best version of yourself.
