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Arts Institute for Creative Advancement

Please direct any program-related questions to
AICA Program Director, Natalie Pertz, at 202-655-2255.

The Arts Institute for Creative Advancement (AICA) is a paid 6-month stagehand training and apprenticeshipprogram designed to provide young adults ages 18-24 withthe skills, experience, and support needed to thrive as stagehands in professional theater and other live entertainment. This apprenticeship program includes classroom training, lab activities, and practical hands-on apprenticeships with our partner theaters. It is an “Earn While You Learn” program and apprentices will be paid $17.50 for every hour of training or apprenticeship work.  

Our objective is to build-out a pipeline of skilled, prepared, and confident theater technicians to meet the growing demand of DC’s creative economy. As advocates for equitable access to the arts academically and professionally, AICA strongly encourages communities underrepresented in this sector to apply - racial and ethnic minorities, women, people with learning and other disabilities, people from lower socio-economic and other diverse backgrounds.

We recognize that many youth have experienced obstacles to a sustainable career path. There are no degree or academic requirements for admission into AICA, nor is previous experience required. With over 90 theater and performance venues in town our future as a backstage worker is filled with potential.

Ideal apprentices are hard-working and dependable; enjoy hands-on learning; want to work in a career that takes advantage of their curiosity and creativity and enjoy being part of something bigger than themselves.  If that is you, please apply!

AICA offers paid job training at $17.50/hr. for approximately 30 hours per week. Starting in January 2025, apprentices must be available M-F 12:30-6:30 & have flexibility for evenings/weekends after theatre work begins. Childcare/transportation stipends available; No degree/previous training required; Involves heavy lifting. Priority is given to DC residents.

Thank you for your interest and support of the Arts Institute for Creative Advancement. The admissions process for the incoming Class of 2025 is complete. We are no longer accepting applications. Please refer to this page in late summer to access the 2026 application when it goes live. 

AICA is committed to transforming the theater production industry by promoting diversity and inclusivity.

Questions: AICAapplications@yahoo.com