"We are always striving to offer our students the best in training, development and hands-on experience," said Peter Sargent, dean of Webster's Leigh Gerdine College of Fine Arts. "With the leadership of faculty member Lara Teeter, head of Webster's musical theatre program and a regular star of Muny productions, there are natural opportunities for our students to contribute to the performances on the incredible Muny stage."

Through the partnership, Webster's musical theatre performance students will participate in master classes offered by Muny choreographers and directors, as well as workshop development projects. Students will also audition and be selected for Muny chorus opportunities.

Conservatory production students with majors in design, production support and stage management will be selected through interviews and portfolio reviews for internships at The Muny to assist with season planning in casting, scenic and costume design, and production operations.

"The unique partnership will allow our students to gain experience through internships alongside the most talented professionals in musical theatre," said Webster provost and senior vice president Julian Schuster in a statement. "We believe that this outstanding opportunity will have a lifetime impact on our students."

Founded in 1915, Webster University's campus network includes metropolitan, military and corporate locations around the world, as well as traditional campuses in Asia, Europe and North America. For more information, visit www.webster.edu.