Allen Lee Hughes Fellowship Program

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Program Purpose and Description: 

The Allen Lee Hughes Fellowship is a professional training program that cultivates the next generation of theater professionals by providing the highest standard of training through immersion in the art and business of producing theater.  Successful candidates are highly motivated individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in the arts. Candidates from underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply. _____________________________________________________________

The program offers personalized training and in-depth, hands-on experience with top-tier professionals in artistic and technical production, arts administration, arts education, and community outreach.

Additionally, all fellows receive:

• Mentorship from Arena Stage staff members, including senior staff
• Professional development workshops and educational sessions led by Arena Stage staff members and guest artists
• Monthly meetings with directors, designers, and senior staff administrators who provide insight into the overall management of the theater
• A weekly fellowship stipend. Please note that housing is not provided.
• Complimentary tickets to Arena Stage’s productions

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Program Benefits: 

The fellowship is full time and requires a dedication of 38 weeks. 

• Fellowships average 40 hours a week over the course of the fellowship. Depending on department and/or time in the season, some weeks may require more or fewer than 40 hours.

• Fellows will have layers of support in their training and professional development: 

  • Supervisor: A staff member in department that is primarily responsible for fellow’s learning experience.

  • Mentor: The most senior member of their department.

  • Training Programs Manager: A dedicated advocate and support for the fellow cohort, who also provides social and professional development opportunities for the group

  • Health Insurance: Insurance coverage is available for a small cost that starts once the fellow has worked for 45 days.
  • Sick, Vacation, and Personal Leave: Seasonal fellows receive 2 weeks (80 hours) of paid leave.

Supported Fields: 

Fellowship positions vary depending on the season, and include arts administration (marketing, graphic design, audience development, and finance); technical production (costuming, lighting, and stage management); and directing, casting, and company management.

Applicant Profile: 

Fellowships are designed for recent graduates (undergraduate or graduate) and career changers interested in pursuing a career in the professional theater. Successful candidates for both programs are highly motivated individuals who have arts-related experience and training, as well as a passion for the exploration of the human condition through the dramatic forms.

Eligibility: 

Graduating senior or alumnus. 

Obligations: 

Seasonal fellowships are full-time and require a commitment of 35 weeks generally between August and May. Specific dates depend on departmental needs.

Citizenship: 

Must be eligible to work in the U.S. 

Program Deadline: 

Usually in the Spring.

How To Apply: 

Information on this program is offered for the benefit of our students. The Fellowships Office does not usually work with applicants to this program. However, SF State applicants to this program may contact the Fellowships Office to learn about exceptions to this policy.