Technical Staff (Updated 11/12/24)       Learn More About The Gateway

• Haunt Carpenters/Electricians/Props Artisans - Early September through Early October or Through Mid November - $600/Wk - Click for more information

The Gateway is located on the southern coast of Long Island in historic Bellport Village, mere steps from the Great South Bay and its amenities. As Long Island’s premiere professional musical theater, our organization is known for high quality productions which feature top talent from New York and Broadway, and are regularly reviewed by publications such as The New York Times. Originally established as the Gateway Playhouse in 1950, The Gateway has been operated by the non-profit Performing Arts Center of Suffolk County for the past thirteen years.

A season at The Gateway is a rigorous and rewarding experience, where apprentices, technicians and industry professionals work together to form all aspects of each production. The Gateway employs SDC directors/choreographers and AEA actors/stage management teams, as well as non-equity actors and union/non-union designers. Each year, many technicians and apprentices advance their careers by meeting and networking with these top artists and technicians.

A typical Gateway work week is 5 days. There are a few exceptions that are 6-day weeks (with additional compensation), opening weeks, Haunt opening week, etc. Each production has a two-week rehearsal period, followed by 5-6 weeks of performances. Our staff technicians and apprentices all share the shop and run crew responsibilities. Most productions close on Sunday night, with the next show opening on the Friday night almost three weeks later, giving us 18 days between produced productions. There will occasionally be a couple of concerts early in that break. Over-hire crews are occasionally brought in to supplement our core crew for larger changeovers.

Gateway’s Haunted Playhouse is an award-winning haunted house that runs the entire month of October. Most find this very unique and successful aspect of Gateway’s season a fun and rewarding venture.

We do not build all of our costumes and scenery, there are 3 scenarios, we rent, pull from stock, or build. Although not built from scratch, Rental sets are augmented to fulfill our costume and scenic needs, often building additional pieces to complete the picture. Some costumes and sets are pulled from our rather large inventory of previously constructed shows that are rented to venues throughout North American and Canada via Gateway Set Rentals. When we do build, the sets are often added to that “Rental Fleet.” We get a jump on building for the Haunt when we don’t have a show to build in the shops.

Productions are staged at the historic 500 seat Gateway Playhouse which is located on the Gateway property in Bellport, NY. All shop, rehearsal and production facilities, as well as residence facilities for the most production staff and cast of actors, are located on the Gateway property. We do have a storage yard with our additional prop and scenic storage trailers several miles away in Mastic, NY.

Candidates applying for positions should understand that teamwork, respect, communication, and punctuality are all vital attributes required to make their time at The Gateway a success. Standard Technician/Apprentice responsibilities/expectations include, but are not limited to:

Technical Staff positions are year-round, our Apprentice Program is typically summer based. Haunt technician positions are seasonal. Staff Technicians are contracted for the year or by the show depending on position. Full-time, weekly employment is essential. Paid sick days are based off contract length. Full-time Year-round Technical Staff earn paid time off based on number of weeks they have completed on contract. Conflicts not negotiated at the time of hiring, will be approved at the discretion of Production Management.

There is a very social culture at The Gateway and, while the highest quality professional product is our top priority, a memorable and enjoyable experience for our staff is not far behind. Over the course of each production, our staff celebrates the launch of a new show at opening night parties. Each year, current staff and Gateway alums gather on the Gateway property for a great Family and Friends BBQ in July.

The Gateway is walking distance to the Great South Bay, with ferry service to Fire Island and Bellport Village beaches. Several BBQ grills, as well as amenities such an in-ground pool, are located on the property, near all housing facilities. For off-days, the New York City theatre scene is just over an hour away by train, and spectacular day trips to Long Island’s East End, including the Hamptons and Montauk Point.

Housing is provided for out-of-town technicians and apprentices. These dormitory-style facilities are centrally located on Gateway property, with arrangements ranging between single and double occupancy rooms, based on position and availability. Coin operated laundry machines are also available and located on property. Meals are not supplied by the company; however, ample kitchens are provided – complete with refrigerator space, appliances and dishwashers. There is free parking on property and mileage will be reimbursed if you happen to use your car in the course of Gateway business. As a standard for technicians and interns coming from off Long Island, we provide a travel reimbursement of up to $150 at the beginning and end of your contract. All negotiations in regards to traveling to/from Gateway will be handled at time of contracting.

The Gateway is committed to a Covid19 safe workplace. In addition, strict protocols have been set forth in our agreement with Actor's Equity Association. In keeping with these requirements, The Gateway is a fully vaccinated work place. All Staff/Apprentices will be required to be up to date on vaccinations before arrival on property.

The Gateway is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. The Gateway is dedicated to fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace.

We do hope this overview about who we are and what we do is helpful to you as you consider your prospects for 2024/25.