2026 Seasonal Festival Intern Positions

Status: Seasonal Internship (Curricular Internship may be considered)

Reports to: Assigned Department Supervisor + Festival Hall/House Manager
and Company Manager  

Stipend, Travel & Housing: Travel or Travel Stipend & Housing will be provided by Central City Opera House Association with hourly compensation for Seasonal Internships at $15.16/hr 

Location: Central City, CO, with occasional work at the Wheat Ridge office. 

Work Schedule: Approximately May 11 - August 16, 2026, 6 days per week with 7–12-hour shifts or split-shifts that vary on balance with the unique operational needs of a summer festival and a typical 40-hour work week.   

Application Deadline: Candidates are encouraged to apply by February 27, 2026 for consideration in initial rounds of interviews. Position(s) will remain open until they are filled. 

POSITION SUMMARY 

Central City Opera’s internship program is a robust and dynamic seasonal opportunity offering immersive training in arts administration, opera house and festival management, operations, and patron services for up to seven individuals. Hands-on experience will be provided through multiple areas of responsibility, including venue operations, historic preservation, event planning, hospitality and customer service experience, and front-of-house venue services, while contributing to the overall success of Central City Opera’s festival season through administrative responsibilities.  The role requires versatility, leadership and team mindset, problem-solving, and exceptional customer service skills and provides the opportunity to participate in the rich history of a 94-year-old organization through traditions like learning and performing the beloved usher song before each performance. 

Central City Opera's 2026 Seasonal Intern Positions include the Festival Operations Track and Specialized Department Tracks. The Festival Operation Track is designed for interns seeking broad exposure across festival operations and front-of-house functions. Specialized Department Tracks are designed for individuals seeking deeper hands-on administrative experience within a specific department while still participating fully in festival operations. All interns contribute meaningfully to the daily operations of the festival while receiving structured training, mentorship, and professional development.  

All applicants will be automatically considered for the Festival Operations Track. To be considered for a Specialized Department Track, please express your interest(s) during the application process. Final placements are made based on interest, experience, organizational needs, and scheduling considerations. 

INTERNSHIP TRACKS 

** Specialized Department Tracks 

Interns selected for Specialized Department Tracks are assigned to one primary administrative department and receive focused mentorship and responsibilities while also participating in general festival operations. 

Available focus areas include: 

• Company Management (Housing & Transportation) 

• Development (Fundraising & Donor Events) 

• Marketing & Communications (Social Media, & Podcast) 

• Customer Service / Retail (Gift Shop & Merchandise) 

Specialized Department Track interns serve as a primary support liaison for their department and take on more detailed administrative tasks. 

** Festival Operations Track 

Interns on the Festival Operations Track receive broad training across festival operations, supporting front-of-house, historic venue management, company housing, and daily administrative needs. 

All interns contribute meaningfully to the daily operations of the festival while receiving structured training, mentorship, and professional development. 

SHARED RESPONSIBILITIES (ALL INTERNS) 

All Seasonal Interns will have responsibilities in the following areas: 

• Support rehearsal and performance setups and daily operational needs 

• Serve as Ushers, Assistant House Managers, or House Managers as assigned 

• Assist Festival Hall operations including office coverage, signage, inventory, and communication 

• Support company housing preparation, check-ins/outs, and troubleshooting 

• Assist with errands, transportation, and logistical support (driver eligibility permitting) 

• Participate in safety, emergency, and operational training 

• Work collaboratively with staff to support artists, patrons, and visiting personnel 

• Perform physically active tasks and navigate steep terrain at an altitude of approximately 8,500 feet above sea level in Central City, CO 

QUALIFICATIONS 

• Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills 

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment 

• Professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail 

• Interest in arts administration, nonprofit operations, or event management 

• Comfort with variable schedules, long days, and physically active work 

• Ability to navigate steep terrain and historic facilities 

Additional qualifications for certain duties: 

• Valid driver’s license encouraged 

• 21+ preferred for certain responsibilities and certifications* 

DESIRED SKILLS (VARY BY TRACK) 

• Administrative or office experience 

• Customer service experience 

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office / Microsoft 365, Canva, CRM systems, POS systems, or social media tools 

• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and adapt 

• Willingness to learn and receive feedback 

*Central City Opera provides required training and certifications as needed for assigned duties. 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 

Central City Opera is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable work environment and encourages candidates from all backgrounds and identities to apply.