The Omaha Community Playhouse (OCP) has long been a cornerstone of local theatre, offering opportunities for aspiring to experienced theatre professionals, on and off stage.
Taking a story from page to stage involves an extensive team and whether a simplified production comprised of minimal elements or a full-scale, big budget extravaganza, a show is rarely – if ever – created alone.
There are career paths in theatre, and there’s no better way to gain insight into the craft than by “doing it.” OCP’s Theatre Tech Apprentice Program (TTAP) offers a unique opportunity for young, passionate, theatre makers to develop hands-on experience.
Through classroom and professional mentoring with OCP Staff, apprentices get real world experience bringing a production to life by working in the following areas: Box Office, Scene Shop, Costuming, Electrics & Sound, Props, Scene Painting and Backstage Crews.
Greg Combs, Director of Production & Strategy with the Omaha Community Playhouse
A two-year program offered to high school and early college students, OCP is thrilled to expand TTAP through an exciting new partnership with Iowa Western Community College (IWCC). Starting in Fall 2025, apprentices are able to earn college credits as they develop their skills in technical theatre.
OCP’s TTAP program encompasses all areas of technical theatre, including the costume shop. The collaboration with IWCC follows a similar format to the existing program. In year one apprentices choose 3 disciplines to explore under the guidance of skilled leaders. They will then choose 2 of those disciplines to explore more thoroughly in the 2nd half of the season. Building on their broad foundation, second year apprentices will choose one area of focus for the year.
In addition to the hands-on experience, the program fosters a collaborative and supportive environment, where apprentices can build professional relationships and network within the local arts community. Many former apprentices have gone on to successful careers in theatre, using the skills and connections they developed at OCP to further their careers in the realm of theatre and entertainment.
“The experience and training provided by participating in TTAP is invaluable. It gives apprentices an amazing advantage, whether they choose to go straight into the workforce or to continue their education at a 4-year program,” said Greg Combs, OCP Director of Production & Strategy. “I wish it had been around when I started at OCP as a volunteer in high school! My volunteer work at OCP led directly to my love of theater and live entertainment, and a 30-year career working at Walt Disney Imagineering.”
Learn more about TTAP and the application process.
April 16, 2018
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