Production Assistant (Temporary)

About the Washington National Opera

In 1956, the sound of opera rang out in DC, heralding the birth of a new company. Four decades and countless artistic leaps later, Washington National Opera continues to move boldly forward on the great adventure that began years ago in a university auditorium. Washington National Opera is now one of the nation's leading opera companies and plays to standing room audiences in the Kennedy Center.

At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law. 

Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts. 

Why Join Us

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits to all full-time employees including: 

• Staff offers for discount tickets
• We like to have fun! Check out the Kennedy Center National Dance Day 2023 staff video!

Job Description

The Production Assistant is a member of the production staff team and assists in managing WNO rehearsals and performances.This non-union paid position is ideal for those with a background in Stage Management and an interest in pursuing a career in the field, but who have little professional experience at a large company. This is an exciting opportunity to work with internationally known singers, directors, conductors, and production staff while performing at the Kennedy Center in the nation’s capital. 

WNO seeks a Production Assistant for each of the following production periods: 

• Production 1: September 21, 2024-November 4, 2024
• Production 2: October 8, 2024-November 23, 2024
• Production 3: November 16-December 15, 2024
• Production 4: March 29, 2025-May 10, 2025
• Production 5: April 15, 2025-May 31, 2025 

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain rehearsal records including sign-in and log coordination/distribution, call board set-up and maintenance, and archiving.
• Assist with rehearsal room management (i.e. generating and distributing running paperwork)
• Assist with technical rehearsals, including, but not limited to, light walking.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Key Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in performing arts, opera preferred
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in performing arts preferred
• Passion for the performing arts
• Shrewd attention to detail 
• Ability to prioritize and organize tasks in a fast-paced, continually changing environment
• Ability to read music
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite 

Additional Information

• The noise level in the work environment is occasionally loud, based on rehearsal and/or performance elements.
• The work environment is occasionally poorly lit, based on rehearsal and/or performance elements.
• Travel may be required between the Kennedy Center and WNO Studio in Takoma, DC.