Kings Playhouse interns receive training that could be transferred to many workplaces

by Stella Shepard

Kings Playhouse in Georgetown has been a cultural landmark that has entertained audiences for more than 130 years.

Since its inception, Kings Playhouse has never missed a season of stage productions, concerts, programs, and educational events.

Haley Zavo of Georgetown Royalty grew up immersed in the arts and cultural industries. She often performed on stage at Kings Playhouse before becoming the Executive Director and Co-Artistic Director.

“We continue to offer entertainment and programs despite the fact that the arts and cultural sector is one of the industries hardest hit by the global pandemic,” says Haley.

Haley is a facilitator of the project Expanding Skills in Live Art Presentation, Creation, Administration and Events Management being offered at the Kings Playhouse until June, 2021. The project is funded by the Workforce Integration Fund by the Province of PEI.

“This project will draw on the skills and interests of four participants to continue their creative process and experience how arts and culture organizations can be at the forefront of showing resilience during times of crisis,” says Haley.

“Throughout the course of the project, participants will gain experience in organizing, event management, artistic project creation, presentation, and facilitation.”

Catherine O’Brien is the Program Administrator of the project. She is also the artistic producer of Young at Heart Theatre, a professional theatre company bringing entertainment to seniors.

“We partnered with the Young at Heart Theatre, which has two intern participants,” says Haley. “Each participant is encouraged to take on their own projects from the beginning until it is launched to the community.

“The main objective is for participants to develop a number of skills, build an increased sense of self, and realize their gifts and abilities and how they can be used in the workforce.”

Transferable skills

“The participants will gain technical digital skills as a result of their training with our in-house technicians,” says Haley.

“As well, the participants will learn administration and organizational skills, events management, communication, time management and customer service skills that are transferable to the workforce.

“When we learn skills in any job or training experience, we can use the skills in future employment. Transferable skills better prepare you to secure employment.

“Our hope is to expand the skills of the intern participants so they can work in different areas of the arts and culture industry.”