Career Pipeline for Theatre Students

On a warm July evening, a large crowd of Suffolk alumni, students, and community members gathered along with President Kelly on the Boston Common to cheer on Nael Nacer, BA ’06, in the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company (CSC) performance of The Winter’s Tale.

The production coincided with CSC’s annual Apprentice Program, which made the Suffolk campus their headquarters for the second consecutive year. The intensive Shakespeare-focused summer training program for early-career actors utilized Suffolk dorms and classrooms, providing students hands-on professional theatre experience.

Suffolk alumni worked side by side with current students, acting as mentors and fostering a communal atmosphere for career exploration. Being able to step out of her comfort zone in a supportive environment was something alumna Andrea McAdam, BA ’24, appreciated. “This is the safest space I’ve ever worked in!” she beamed.

The program culminated with performances in the Modern Theatre of Richard II and Two Noble Kinsmen. Students and alumni gained valuable experience in a variety of functions by working as understudies, production managers, stage managers, and as front of house and audience ambassadors. Apprentices also worked behind and in front of the stage for the Boston Common production.

“The value of the experience our students gain from working and training with CSC cannot be overstated,” says theatre professor and department chair Richard Chambers. “Their experience is academic, artistic, practical, and personal.”