Assistant/Associate Professor of Drama

University of Oklahoma Norman Campus•Norman, OK

53d•Onsite

About The Position

The Peggy Dow Helmerich School of Drama in the Weitzenhoffer Family College of Fine Arts at The University of Oklahoma seeks applicants for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant/Associate Professor of Acting and Performance Area Coordinator to start in August 2027. This is a nine-month faculty appointment with a 2/3 course load and an administrative service position component. The salary range is $64,000-$75,000 dependent on the rank of the initial hire. This position provides an opportunity to teach at the heart of a nationally respected actor training program and shape the artistic and curricular direction of the Performance Area at an R1 research institution. The Peggy Dow Helmerich School of Drama is a vibrant community of artists and storytellers. Through rigorous and innovative curricular training and production practice, we empower students to explore the full spectrum of theatrical expression and their work as artists; we develop skilled, risk-taking, and compassionate professionals who contribute to the betterment of society; and we champion interdisciplinary collaboration and creative, critical inquiry to prepare graduates for meaningful careers in theatre and beyond. Housed in an R1 research institution, the School of Drama combines the advantages of a liberal arts education with conservatory-style BFA training in Acting, Costume Design, Dramaturgy, Lighting Design, Scenic Design, Stage Management, and Sound Design, as well as professional MFA training in Directing.

Requirements

MFA in Acting/Directing and/or a PhD in Theatre/Performance Studies.
Experience in the practice and pedagogy of actor training at the university level.
Evidence of sustained professional practice in theatre, film, television, audio, content creation, and/or related media.
For Associate Professor rank: Six years of experience in the practice and pedagogy of actor training at the university level.
For Associate Professor rank: Evidence of prolific and high caliber professional practice in theatre, film, television, audio, content creation, and/or related media.

Nice To Haves

Teaching and research/creative experience in any one of the following: (1) global theatre actor training and performance traditions; (2) Shakespeare and heightened text; (3) ensemble-based, devised dramaturgies; (4) voice; and (5) movement.
Experience and interest in directing productions at the university and/or professional level.
Active union membership and professional affiliations.
Record of publications and scholarship.
Evidence of administrative leadership relevant to the position.
Curriculum development experience.

Responsibilities

Lead the Performance Area faculty (BFA program in Drama: Acting or Dramaturgy Emphasis; MFA in Drama: Directing Option).
Coordinate/organize area event schedules, including but not limited to monthly area faculty meetings, acting auditions, and student assessments.
Maintain class lists.
Evaluate petitions and distribute student forms.
Facilitate curriculum review.
Communicate with the director and guest artists.
Represent the area in faculty meetings and recruitment events.
Handle student concerns and conflict resolution.
Teach foundational courses in the BFA in Theatre: Acting Emphasis curriculum, selected from Introduction to Acting, Character Study for the Actor, Scene Study for the Actor, Performing Shakespeare, and other upper-level acting technique courses.
Develop new courses in area(s) of specialty.
Mentor undergraduate students.
Contribute to recruitment efforts.
Regularly participate in School of Drama productions as a director or in a similar artistic capacity and contributing positively to the training of School of Drama majors.
Maintain an active research/creative activity profile commensurate with the expectations of an R1 institution.
Directing a School of Drama production may count toward creative activity or teaching, pending prior negotiation with the director of the school.
Provide service to the department, college, university, and profession.