Apprenticeship Program
Empowering the Next Generation of Creative Leaders
The VIPA Apprenticeship Program is more than an education initiative—it is a transformative opportunity for Venice High School juniors and seniors to step directly into the world of professional performing arts. As a true Education Lab, this program provides paid, hands-on experience across every facet of theatre production—lighting, sound, rigging, front of house, box office, hospitality, and now, with the exciting addition of a dedicated AV Team, cutting-edge training in audio-visual technology, one of the fastest-growing fields in the industry.
Building on this success, the program continues to expand, most recently welcoming a Marketing Apprentice and Intern position. These new roles allow students to develop skills in communications, outreach, and audience engagement—critical areas that support both the arts and countless career paths beyond the stage.
Working side-by-side with industry professionals, apprentices gain real-world knowledge that translates into meaningful career pathways both within and beyond the arts. They also benefit from exclusive masterclasses and workshops, receiving one-on-one mentorship from experts who nurture not only technical expertise but also essential life skills—creativity, communication, collaboration, and leadership.
The results speak for themselves. Our graduates have gone on to join the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), manage successful local bands, and pursue higher education in performing and non-performing arts alike. Each success story demonstrates how this program empowers students to dream bigger, achieve more, and carry the arts forward into the future.
Your support empowers VIPA to invest in young people, giving them the tools, confidence, and inspiration to thrive—and helping shape the next generation of creative leaders who will enrich our community for years to come.
Why Your Support Matters
The VIPA Apprenticeship Program is one of our most vital initiatives, and it simply wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our patrons.
Your donation directly fuels the future of the arts by providing:
- Essential Stipends: Ensuring our apprentices can focus entirely on their learning and professional growth without the burden of financial stress.
- Expert Mentorship: Connecting them with seasoned professionals who offer invaluable guidance and networking opportunities.
- Real-World Experience: Allowing them to contribute meaningfully to our productions and operations, building a robust portfolio.
Join us in investing in the next generation of creative leaders.
Help us give these talented individuals the best possible launchpad for their careers.
Current Apprentices
