Apprenticeship

The Apprenticeship at Mill Mountain Theatre is an immersive experience designed to propel young artists into their professional careers. Ideal candidates are college students who are studying to pursue a professional career in the arts. 

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Mill Mountain Theatre is currently accepting submissions for its 2025 Summer Apprentice Company for the touring production TBA.

Register Summer 2025 Apprentice Company

For more information on how to audition or how to get involved:
contact Francesca Reilly, Director of Education.

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A summer in Roanoke, VA

Live, work, and play in downtown Roanoke, a historic and bustling Virginia city with a wide array of food, culture, and activities. Apprentices are housed in the Mill Mountain Theatre Atelier, a historic hotel walking distance from the theatre, restaurants, museums, and the City Market with local vendors and farmers. Journey outside to enjoy one of the hundreds of hikes in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

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“My time here at MMT has been nothing short of wonderful. I’ve been able to grow in such a safe and exciting environment. I feel completely prepared for my acting career after this and am so lucky that I got to start it here. The apprenticeship program teaches you how to be a smart actor, how to interact in a professional setting, and how to be a better human. The connections you make here will last you a lifetime and you will leave trusting your skills and ability to create magic on a stage. MMT is an extraordinary place full of exceptional people who have nothing but the best interests for you in mind. Those who have the privilege of calling this place home for the year are incredibly fortunate, and I, for one, will always cherish the incredible time I spent here..”

-Ashlinn, Apprentice Company 2024

“My time as an apprentice at Mill Mountain has been so enriching and the perfect stepping stone into my professional career. In my time here, I have gotten to push myself as an actor, singer, dancer and gain the confidence that it takes to put yourself out there in such a highly competitive field. The faculty members at Mill Mountain are incredibly encouraging and have been phenomenal resources in developing myself as a professional actor. Aside from their mentorship and their desire to see each of us succeed, I have also made life long connections through my fellow apprentices and cast mates. This apprenticeship has given me so many opportunities to learn about the industry, gain experience in areas I otherwise wouldn’t have, and learn about myself as a person and a professional. This is an experience I will always cherish and would recommend to anyone who is presented with the opportunity as well!

-Keeley, Apprentice Company 2024

“Working at Mill Mountain Theatre has been nothing but incredible. Each and every person here has demonstrated expertise in their selective fields, along with an abundance of kindness. The environment and atmosphere created by the cast, crew, and staff, is everything I wanted and so much more! I couldn’t have asked for a better experience to start my professional theatre career!”

-Kenan, Apprentice Company 2024

“I will forever be grateful for what the MMT apprenticeship has given me, both as a performer and a person. Never have I felt more welcomed into a process than the moment I arrived and began rehearsals, nor more welcome to take risks, make mistakes, and grow in my acting. I will always cherish the family that I have found at MMT, especially the new lifelong friendships with my fellow apprentices! On top of this, Roanoke is absolutely gorgeous and has a strong sense of community (and great food). Overall, my experience was once-in-a-lifetime, and I would not trade it away for anything!”

-Cody, Apprentice Company 2018

“The Mill Mountain Theatre apprenticeship provided me a platform to perform with the most diverse and talented company I have ever been a part of. While stretching myself as a performer, I was also allowed to spread the joy and power of theatre throughout the Roanoke Valley, teaching lessons in different classroom environments and also touring to community libraries and parks. I would definitely recommend this experience to anyone looking to grow as an artist.”

-Alex, Apprentice Company 2017

“Being an apprentice at Mill Mountain Theatre was one of the most rewarding and eye opening experiences that I have had as a theatre artist… They took the time to get to know who I am. They shared with me what they know, what they love, and their home. Mill Mountain and all of the beautiful people who are a part of it will always hold a special place in my heart. The genuine connection, acceptance, and comfort I felt is something that I will never forget. Lifelong friendships were made, and meaningful life lessons were learned. I grew as a person, as well as a theatre artist. I could not have asked for more.”

-Rosvic, Apprentice Company 2017

“Every day was filled to the brim with performing, education, and spreading the joy of theatre across the Roanoke Valley. This summer has changed me significantly: I feel more confident and sure of myself, and that wouldn’t have happened without this program. The Apprenticeship is something truly special.”

-Anna, Apprentice Company 2016