Apprentice Achievement

The Playhouse is proud of our Theatre Technology Apprenticeship Program® (TTAP®), working in educational partnership with Metro Community College. This unique school-to-work program allows high school and college students to learn the behind-the-scenes aspects of a career in technical theatre side-by-side with one of our excellent craftspeople. Once the apprentice successfully finishes the two-year program he or she is certificated by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training; can continue college pursuits with up to 54 college credit hours earned from Metro College as part of the apprentice program and/or begin a career in the entertainment business.

Spring is always a fun time at OCP as we celebrate the graduation of our senior apprentice class. On Wednesday, May 12, 10 senior apprentices will participate in a graduation ceremony marking their achievements through the TTAP® program. One such student is Jamie Fields. Jamie says, “Being a part of the program has been the best learning experience I’ve ever had. It is a lot of hard work but it is definitely worth it…and it is fun!”

At the same event, the Playhouse will announce the recipients of TTAP® Scholarships for the 2010-11 year. The Joyce Gordon Memorial Scholarship is given to a Senior Metro College Apprentice in good standing who exhibits leadership qualities and a desire to make theatre his or her career. The Eleanor Jones Memorial Scholarship is given to a Senior Apprentice from high school who will be entering his or her second year of the program, exhibiting outstanding workmanship and above average dedication to school and Playhouse productions.

If you would like to find out more information about the TTAP® please contact Lara Marsh, Apprenticeship Coordinator at 553-4890 ext. 135. If you would like to find out more about how you can sponsor a scholarship for a TTAP® student, please contact Alena Furlong, Development Director at 553-4890 ext. 127.