Students intern at Shakespeare Festival

During the summer of 2007, both Matt Babbs and Tyler Jacobson took advantage of Cornell’s close relationship with Iowa City’s Riverside Theatre.  The two served as interns during the annual Shakespeare Festival, and both say the experience convinced them to become theatre professionals.

“I know now that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life,” says Babbs.  “This was the test for me, and it couldn’t have gone better.”

“Not only did it help me grow as an individual,” adds Jacobson, “but it made me realize how great of a program we have at Cornell and how much the program prepares us for getting out of college and finding actual work. During my internship I had my own intern who was six years older than me, had his degree, and had to listen to me.”

In addition to a small role in Merry Wives of Windsor, Babbs helped produce green shows before the main performances and assisted in many other ways.  Jacobson served as assistant stage manager for the festival, which also included performances of King Lear.

“I highly recommend that anyone who is interested in theatre as a profession get as much experience as possible while in college,” Jacobson says. “I’ve also made so many connections with professional theatre practitioners, who are willing to help me find work if I need it.”

He plans to pursue graduate school in stage management, work as a professional stage manager, and eventually teach.  Babbs will pursue an acting career, and hopes to work in Chicago.