The Role 

Puppeteers in the Summer Ensemble will manipulate different types of puppets, collaborate in creative work, and explore the intersection of acting, movement, and design. Puppeteers gain hands-on experience in puppet design and construction, and develop an understanding of how form and material influence character and movement. In addition to performing, Puppeteers also gain insight into the professional theatre and puppetry industry through mentorship, research, and reflection.

Type of Engagement: Full time 

Start Date: June 9th 2026

End Date: July 31st 2026

Compensation: $5,040 ($18/hr)

This role is part of Summer Ensemble 2026.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

• punctually arrive to rehearsals and performances;
• learn and practice industry-specific warm-up exercises for physical and vocal control;
• apply fundamental puppetry techniques, including breath, focus, weight, and synchronization;
• integrate puppetry with acting, sound, and movement;
• explore and practice manipulation styles for various puppets (tabletop, hand, rod, shadow, object, etc.);
• read, analyze, and interpret scripts, themes, or improvisation prompts for puppet performance;
• design, build, creation, and maintenance of puppets used in rehearsals or performances;
  experiment with materials, textures, and mechanisms to explore character and movement possibilities;
• research puppetry traditions, materials, and artists relevant to the project or style explored;
• work collaboratively in a team environment, communicate ideas clearly and effectively (orally and non-orally);
• improvise scenes with puppets or objects;
• understand and follow artistic direction;
• actively participate in ensemble discussions and feedback sessions;
• follow instruction from CCTC’s staff.
  

This is a learning on the job role and will also entail the following requirements: 

• watch videos of productions, acting exercises and other professional materials as required;
• with the help of a mentor learn how to evaluate professional theatre’s elements;
• participate in learning activities about professional companies (employers), funding bodies and grants;
• complete delegated tasks such as research or reports or articles in a timely matter; 
• discuss and debate elements of professional productions and acting techniques;
• learn how to write and edit a blogpost under supervision and mentorship;
• writing blog posts as required.

Reports to

Director, Artistic Director, General Manager

Requirements: 

• Be available to work online and in person at our theatre (3650 Dixie Rd, Mississauga, ON L4Y 3V9) and studio (2359 Royal Windsor Drive Unit 210, Mississauga, ON L5J 4S9).
• Be available for all dates and hours stated in contract.
• Be a Canadian Citizen, have a PR, or refugee status.
• Be between 18 – 30 years of age at the start of the program.

 Education and Experience:

Experience and Education in Theatre is preferred, but not required.

Languages:

English. Knowledge of any other language is a plus. 

Location:

Mississauga (Crane Creations Studio, and Maja Prentice Theatre)