Our Bob Rohlf Interns Reflect on the Summer Season
The 2019 Bob Rohlf Internship Program is well under way with 12 college students joining the Starlight team from schools across the United States. Starlight interns work in all departments at the historic venue—from operations and production, to marketing, education and sales, the students are hands-on throughout the summer, learning what it takes to make a summer season happen under the stars. With a little more than one month under their belts, we asked a few of the interns what they were enjoying most about the summer so far. Hear from them below!
“Personally, the best part of the summer for me has been the opportunity to grow in so many different directions within the performing arts industry here at Starlight. The connections I have made of course are vital, but I’ve also just learned so much about the sales aspect of running a theatre, the management portion of working at a venue, and, particularly, event planning and group relations! Working this internship has been very fulfilling because it hasn’t kept me too limited in scope but it has still helped me learn to appropriately focus my efforts and put my all into a variety of contrasting tasks.”
– Tyler Armer, Group Sales Intern
“My favorite part of the internship is working the shows and being a part of making the event run smoothly and enjoyable for guests!”
– Madison O’Dell, Operations Intern
“As Development Intern, I attend special events where donors are in attendance before and during the show. I love to have genuine conversations with donors, ask questions, and learn more about people who support Starlight Theatre. I can definitely see myself in a development role post college. I don’t think I would have realized that without the help of the Bob Rohlf Internship Program.”
– Corey Goodburn, Development Intern
“As the Education & Outreach Intern, I have absolutely loved getting to witness the behind-the-scenes elements that contribute to the performances at Starlight, all the way from Starlight Stars to the touring Broadway shows. There is so much more than I could have imagined that goes into making magic on stage.”
– Maria Gnoza, Education & Outreach Inter
“It is so exciting to be working at a venue with so many unique qualities. I enjoy seeing how the office, venue, and overall atmosphere of Starlight Theatre changes from a Broadway week to a concert night. Knowing that performers are getting ready for their show while you are finishing up your work is such a cool part of this internship! In my opinion, I am able to play a more vital role in the performer's tour experience behind the scenes than I do as an audience member.”
– Rachel Yaros, Creative Marketing Intern
“My favorite part about my internship so far within the Operations Department is that they trusted me to paint a mural on some doors in the courtyard of the newly implemented Donor’s Lounge this season. To be given that artistic leniency by my supervisors and the rest of the Starlight staff was something as an artist and a part of this program that I am beyond appreciative of. Receiving the opportunity to leave my mark on this beautiful venue while I enjoy my internship here has been an incredible experience. I cannot wait to see what the rest of this season holds!”
– Laura Boughan, Operations Intern
The Bob Rohlf Internship also includes opportunities for students to hear from Starlight staff and leadership through the “Brown Bag Lunch” series, as well as other outings in the community. The group recently volunteered at Kids TLC, a non-profit that helps children and families struggling with mental and behavioral health. Later this month, they’ll enjoy a Royals game as a group.
Internship applications for Summer 2020 will be posted in the fall. Check here for more information.