About The Program
Summer Ensemble is a one of a kind work experience for artists pursuing a career in the Canadian theatre industry. Summer Ensemble hires artists between the ages of 18 to 30 to work full time over the course of several weeks. Along the way, learn valuable skills and gain experience in this fast-paced, intense program.
Where Are Summer Ensemble Participants From?
Since it’s inception in 2019, participants of Summer Ensemble have come from all across Canada to participate in the program. We had participants from 5 provinces including British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec.
Much More Than A Line On A Resume
What Participants Gain In This Arts Job
Artistic Skills
Explore classical and contemporary text, improvisation, theatre around the world and their relevance and impact on arts jobs and society today.
Orientation In Arts Jobs
Honest insight into professional organizations, structures and systems in place and how to navigate them successfully
Financial Skills
Budgeting and financial literacy delivered in a comprehensible and easy to understand way, tailored for theatre artists’ needs.
Leadership Skills
Debate complex questions and develop ideas and strategies how to build not only your career but theatre ecosystem in Canada and Internationally.
Touring In Arts
Discover how artists around the world use international touring as a source of income, and learn how to create shows that can allow you to participate in that market.
Digital Skills
Discover how blog/content writing can earn you additional income, promote your work, while mastering WordPress, one of the most desired skills in todays job market.
LEARN ABOUT ARTS JOBS
Work in
Culture
Available Positons
APPLICATIONS FOR 2025 CLOSED
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Summer Ensemble Schedule 2025
FAQ
Most frequently asked questions and answers
Is there an application fee?
Our team really values creating jobs for artists. Although it takes time and resources to make this project happen we are not burdening artists with any fees at the moment. If you would like to show appreciation for our time and this project please consider donating to our organization and keeping this program alive for other artists.
I auditioned last year, do I have to audition again?
Yes, a year is a long time to gain new skills!
We are very happy to see the progress returning candidates make.
Is there a limit to how many times I can audition?
No, you can audition as many times as you want, we love creating arts jobs and want you to work in culture!
What are you looking for in a monologue?
Generally do choose a monologue from a play, not from a film or a television series. Do memorize word for word, and stray away form paraphrasing. Take punctuation into account, as well as who your character is and what relationships they have with the people and the topics in your monologue.
Why do I need to do a classical monologue?
We believe that classical monologues, which frequently contain verse, metre, alliteration, assonance, ambiguity and other tactics show off your technical capabilities as an actor.
How do you accommodate persons with disabilities?
We are thrilled to welcome everyone, but we should mention that our studio is unfortunately located on the second floor, and is currently only accessible by a staircase. We are hoping to persuade our landlord to improve the access in the future, but for now this is the only way to the studio.
I don’t live in Mississauga, how do I get here?
All our locations are well connected by public transit. If you are travelling from outside Mississauga, plan your trip using MiWay and Go Transit.
How can I improve my chances to get hired?
We want to see you succeed. Don’t fret too much about what monologue to choose. Focus on how you perform it, rather than what is the monologue choice.
If you want to practice reading, join our Play Date, a monthly play reading club taking place online, on the third Thursday of each month.
Can I share this link with my friends?
Of course! Please feel free to share, and tell anyone looking for a paid arts job about this opportunity. We are also happy to provide you with flyers and posters to post in your school, community, library or local theatre. E-mail us or call us to discuss what format of materials would you like.
I auditioned last year, should I audition with different monologues or use the same ones?
Please feel free to come back with the same monologues or, if you would like to show us a new one, we are happy for you to do so. The choice of a monologue is not a decisive factor, the interpretation is.
Can I participate more than once?
Most of the participants attend the program only once. On rare occasions, we do have returning participants, usually candidates who show exceptional potential for a different field and would benefit from additional training.
What happens after the program?
Many of our participants stay in touch and continue working with us. Three of the past participants are now our full time employees, and several others work in culture in various capacities.
Will there be a performance or presentation of the work in the end?
The purpose of this program is to offer an intensive and immersive experience into all different areas of being an artist, not to produce a show. There might be a public performance involved. If you are simply looking for a gig to put on your resume this program is not a good fit.
Will I get to write my own material/play?
Several companies in Canada offer opportunities to create new work. This opportunity is tailored to artists who would like to spend time learning about various aspects of building a career in the arts rather than create new work. Although some of our past participants have gone on to create new work, we will not be asking you to create during this program.
Can I participate remotely?
Unfortunately this program is for in-person participants.
