JOBS

Musiktheatertage Wien

Contemporary Music Theatre Festival

16-27 September 2026

Position

Assistant director for two music theatre productions 

Rehearsal phase: probably May, partly August 

Festival period: 16 to 27 September 2026 (festival period) 

Additional availability: 16 to 20 November 2026 (guest performance) 

About the Vienna Music Theatre Days: The Musiktheatertage Wien is a festival for contemporary music theatre and will take place in Vienna from 16 to 27 September 2026. The focus is on new forms of music theatre, interdisciplinary approaches and artistic positions that expand and question the genre. 

About the productions: Two music theatre productions by the director and music theatre maker Thomas Cornelius Desi will receive a directing internship as part of the festival. The productions are set in the field of contemporary music theatre and combine scenic, musical and interactive elements.

Responsibilities: The internship offers insights into rehearsal processes and artistic decision-making procedures as well as the opportunity to work closely with the director and artistic team. Tasks include, among others:

- Supporting the director in everyday rehearsals (e.g. keeping director's books, rehearsal protocols, organisational coordination).

- Support with scenic conversion processes, prop organisation and rehearsal logistics by arrangement.

- Participation in meetings of the artistic team and selected organisational meetings.

- Support for the performances during the festival period (accompanying the evenings, possibly assisting with admission/stage procedures in consultation with the director). 

Period and availability

- The main period of the director internship is the festival period of the Musiktheatertage Wien: 16 to 27 September 2026.

- In addition, availability for a guest performance in the period from 16 to 20 November 2026 is required.

- Exact rehearsal and production times will be determined in consultation with the production management and the director, but will probably take place in May and August.

General conditions and remuneration

- The director's internship is paid; the exact amount of the fee or expense allowance is determined in the course of the contract agreement.

- This is a temporary project-related activity within the framework of the festival. 

Profile: We are looking for a person who:

- has a strong interest in contemporary music theatre and directing.

- ideally have gained initial practical experience in theatre, music or performance productions (e.g. internships, assistantships, studies, independent projects).

- is reliable, able to work under pressure, team-orientated and enjoys rehearsal processes. - is willing to work irregular hours (evening/weekend rehearsals, performances).

- is fully or predominantly available in the specified period (16-27 September 2026 and 16-20 November 2026).

Application: Please send your application by e-mail to: [Jonas Nikolai, Production Manager] [jo@mttw.at] [+49 1522 2107221]

Requested documents:

- Short letter of motivation (max. 1 page) stating your motivation for a directing internship at the Musiktheatertage Wien and especially for productions by Thomas Cornelius Desi.

- Curriculum vitae with relevant theatre, music or art experience.

- Optional: References to previous projects (links, portfolio, website, etc.). Please indicate in the subject line of the e-mail:

„Application for directing internship - Musiktheatertage Wien 2026 - [your name]“.

Deadlines and notes - Application deadline: 1 March 2026

- Invited applications can prepare for a short online or on-site interview.

- We value diversity, equal opportunities and a discrimination-sensitive working environment; applications from people of all genders, backgrounds and realities are expressly welcome.

The specific organisation of the internship (number of hours, fee, exact rehearsal times) is agreed individually as part of the selection process and the contract agreement.