We don't always hold our own season generals, but actors are encouraged to submit a headshot and resume using the link below at any time of the year. We will contact you if we would like to call you in.

Sideshow is committed to developing and producing new work for Chicago audiences, and developing local writers. Currently, we only accept unsolicited play submissions from writers in the greater Chicagoland area. Due to the specific style and aesthetic of our productions, we also strongly encourage playwrights to familiarize themselves with our work before submitting.

Agents and publishers may submit scripts at any time, but if you are an unrepresented local writer, please use the link below to send your play. Please contact literary manager Walt McGough with any questions, at walt@sideshowtheatre.org.

We can always use help! Register to volunteer in one of the many areas of Sideshow or CLLAW (Chicago League of Lady Arm Wrestlers.

For CLLAW wrestler registration, please click here.

For each of Sideshow's productions, our goals are to ensure that each artist working with us feels their work and time is valued, finds ownership for their creative impact on the production, and becomes part of a community of artists and staff providing support for the play and for the individuals working on the production. We aim to offer the most organized, most professional storefront experience in Chicago.

What you can expect from the Sideshow Internship:

• COMMUNICATION: The first point of our code of conduct is to communicate openly, honestly, and respectfully with one another.

• A PERFECT FIT: Each of Sideshow's internships is wildly different from the next. We tailor each experience to the goals and needs of each individual. Because of this, we keep our intern cohorts small to guarantee focus and flexibility.

• MOMENTUM: Behind this great band of artists is a strong spine of business sense. The Sideshow internship grants you experience helping to craft the unique Sideshow magic, and to apply the practical business skills you’ll need producing your own work after you graduate.

• ACCESS: Part of the thrill of crafting your own internship means you generate goals and we help you accomplish them. If you have a question you want answered or a skill you want to try, we’ll find an answer, an outlet, or we’ll show you the solution ourselves.

What we expect from you:

• POSITIVITY in your attitude.
• PROFESSIONALISM in your behavior.
• PASSION for your art.
• PROFICIENCY in your work.

To start a conversation, contact executive director Stephanie Weddell.

"Interning at Sideshow was incredible! The staff made sure to make me feel like a part of the Sideshow community, and shaped the internship so that I could be working toward my own personal goals. It is obvious how passionate everyone is about the work they do, and it really inspired me in my own personal life and artistic pursuits."

- Morgan Rielly, Intern Class 2017

“My experience with Sideshow showed me that theatre can always be a part of my life regardless of where my career path takes me.  The hands on nature allowed me to feel included as a member of a team.  I was able to take on independent tasks that I took pride in.  Even as an intern, I felt like my presence had an impact on the shows. The company as a whole has been inspiring.”

- Mary Mathyer, Intern Class 2009-10