It’s hard to believe, but I’m already halfway through my time as an intern at American Ballet Theatre! The 2019 Met season has just ended, so it seems like a perfect time to reflect on my experience thus far.
Working at ABT has been a goal of mine since I attended the Collegiate Summer Intensive at 890 Broadway following my high school graduation. I remember walking the halls and noticing that everyone from the principal dancers to the financial analysts seemed to know one another personally. There was a strong sense of unity that I had never experienced at other companies, and it left a lasting impression on me. Exactly three years later I found the opportunity to apply for an intern position in the Marketing department, and here I am!
One of the things I appreciate most about the internship has been the strong focus on learning and involvement. Rather than just telling me to mindlessly copy numbers into a spreadsheet, my supervisors will sit down with me and explain what all the numbers mean and how they will be used once I’ve organized them. As a result, I feel like I leave the offices each day with a stronger understanding of how the company operates, and I’m able to speak in detail about the work that I’ve contributed.
Of course, the most exciting part of working at a performing arts organization is getting to see the shows. Some of my favorite moments have been going to the Members-Only Swan Lake dress rehearsal and getting a backstage tour at the Met. As a former dancer and lifelong fan of ABT, it was surreal to be able to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the magic happens night after night.
I look forward to seeing what the next four weeks bring!
Laura Alston
Marketing Intern
Summer 2019
abtinterns 
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