THEATRE TEACHER / DIRECTOR (PART-TIME)

Davis Chicago•Chicago, IL

6d•$13,000 - $18,000•Onsite

About The Position

Davis School Chicago is seeking a part-time Theatre Teacher / Director to build the school's theatre program. This founding-year position involves teaching Theatre Foundation and Theatre Tech, staging the school's first productions, and developing students' acting, stagecraft, and technical theatre skills. The role requires creating a company culture and craft habits that prepare students for advanced studies. As a founding faculty member, the Theatre Teacher / Director will contribute to curriculum development, school traditions, and overall school culture, collaborating with colleagues across disciplines to foster an integrated educational experience. The position emphasizes student-centered instruction, fostering a love for theatre, and preparing students for future opportunities in the arts.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred in Theatre, Directing, or Theatre Education.
Directing and production experience required.
3+ years of teaching or directing preferred.
Illinois Professional Educator License in theatre or drama preferred.
National Board Certification a major plus.
Evidence of productions that grew young performers, not just filled seats.
Stagecraft and classroom craft.
Ability to teach acting and stagecraft as disciplines.
Ability to build company culture where students of every experience level belong and are stretched.
Ability to make theatre visible in the life of the school.
Ability to honor tradition while embracing innovation, technology, and AI.
Commitment to Jewish life and community, valuing Jewish identity, the diversity of Jewish thought, and meaningful engagement in Jewish life.
Ability to balance accountability, care, and results while elevating everyone around them.

Nice To Haves

Dance or movement background a plus.
College-preparatory, independent, Jewish day or faith-based school experience is a plus.
Being Jewish is not a requirement for this role.
Fewer years but exceptional craft.
Ability to teach across the arts in addition to theatre (for Arts Department Chair role).

Responsibilities

Teach sections of Theatre Foundation and Theatre Tech as assigned.
Design and implement engaging, standards-based instruction in acting, stagecraft, and technical theatre.
Teach to the National Core Arts Standards for theatre.
Direct the founding productions, from selection through opening night, and establish audition, rehearsal, and production systems.
Bring movement and dance into productions and coursework where background allows.
Promote inquiry-based learning, studio practice, rehearsal and performance, critique, and project-based experiences.
Build toward the Performing Arts Capstone, a multi-year honors sequence.
Champion portfolio-worthy student work and help students build audition materials and portfolios.
Differentiate instruction to support diverse learners and learning styles.
Utilize educational technology and innovative teaching methodologies.
Assess student progress through a variety of formative and summative measures and provide timely, meaningful feedback.
Develop authentic assessments that measure student growth and mastery.
Collaborate in the development of a vertically aligned theatre curriculum.
Foster a classroom environment characterized by curiosity, respect, inclusion, and intellectual challenge.
Build strong relationships with students and serve as a trusted mentor and advisor.
Support students’ academic, social, and emotional growth.
Encourage student leadership, confidence, and active participation in school life.
Build a company culture where students of every experience level belong and are stretched.
Contribute actively to the vibrant culture and mission of Davis School Chicago.
Partner with colleagues to support school-wide programming, celebrations, and community initiatives.
Help create opportunities for students to engage with theatre beyond the classroom.
Serve as an ambassador for theatre education within the school and broader community.
Showcase student achievement through productions, festivals, competitions, and public events.
Create performance moments across the school year that make theatre visible in the life of the school.
Participate in faculty meetings, professional development, and community events as scoped for a part-time role.
Help moderate student clubs and activities where scope allows.
Communicate regularly and effectively with families regarding student progress, learning goals, and rehearsal and performance commitments.
Collaborate with colleagues across academic departments to develop interdisciplinary learning experiences.
Partner with faculty and school leadership to advance school goals, curriculum development, and student success initiatives.