Super Opportunities

Super (noun): a non-singing, non-speaking actor engaged to play a supplementary role in an opera

 

Have you ever dreamed of performing in a Minnesota Opera production onstage at the Ordway? Apply to become a “super” – a non-singing actor – and your dream just might come true!  Your responsibilities may include interacting with the principal artists, chorus, or dancers, moving props or furniture around the stage, and even playing characters that help move the action along. Whatever your specific tasks, supers are an integral part of an opera production!  Our super needs vary from show to show, but at different times we need people of all genders, ages, shapes, and sizes. To be added to our database of supernumerary candidates, please complete the application on this website. You will be contacted if your profile matches our needs for a particular opera production. Thank you for your interest in working with us!

 

Job Requirements

Supers do not necessarily need prior performance experience, but we hope you love music (you’ll be right in the middle of it!) and trying new things. Supers must arrive punctually to all rehearsal and performance calls, follow directions carefully, and handle your assigned costumes and props responsibly. 

Some roles may have certain physical or movement requirements, such as kneeling, standing for long periods of time, moderate lifting, stage combat, simple dance movement, or handling weapons or firearms. 

All supers must be eligible to work in the United States and possess a valid social security number.

 

Time Commitment and Schedule

The total time commitment for each opera varies, but rehearsals are usually held in the evenings and on Saturday mornings and/or afternoons during a four week period leading up to opening night. The number of performances for each opera varies and the performance period can last from one to two weeks.

Prior to being cast as a super you will receive a complete overview schedule of the rehearsals and performances. Sometimes we can work around a few scheduling conflicts, but the onstage rehearsals and performances are always mandatory. We try our best to stick to the published schedule but sometimes changes do happen and we appreciate your flexibility.

 

Change, change, change!

An opera is constantly evolving throughout the rehearsal process and change is inherent in what we do. As the opera takes shape we may ask you to change anything and everything, including the role(s) you play and your staging, props, costumes, or schedule. Supers must be prepared to adapt to changes as the rehearsal process evolves.

 

We’re here to help!

Don’t worry if all this is new, you will have a team of people to help you along the way! A stage director and assistant will teach you the staging, a team of stage managers will ensure that you’re in the right place at the right time, a super captain can answer all of your questions and help you find your way around the theater, and countless crew members will be on hand to make you look fantastic and assist you backstage. Upon being cast in an opera you will also receive a detailed handbook explaining all opera company procedures and expectations.

 

What’s in it for me?

• A small stipend based on the number of performance and rehearsal calls
• Discounted performance tickets
• A chance to perform alongside world-class opera singers onstage at the Ordway or the Luminary Arts Center!

 

 Are you ready to make your Super debut?  Submit your application online now!