Theater Teacher

In accordance with York Academy policies and procedures, the Theatre Teacher will be in charge of developing and implementing the theatre program for the York Academy. He/She will produce and/or direct two to three main stage productions per year, which may include a reader’s theatre and one-act plays. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.     Designs and conducts recruitment/outreach programs to attract new theatre participants.

2.     Sponsors the Upper School Drama Club and chapter of the International Thespian Society, an honor society for theatre students.

3.     Teachers acting principles and techniques to individuals and groups and conduct readings to evaluate students’ talent.

4.     Teaches enunciation, diction, voice development, and dialects, using voice exercises, speech drills, explanation, lectures, and improvisation.

5.     Discusses and demonstrates vocal and body expression to teach acting styles, character development, and personality projection.

6.     Produces and directs plays for school and public performances.

7.     Audition students to select the cast and assign parts.

8.     Rehearses and drills students to ensure they master parts.

9.     Assigns non-performing students to backstage production tasks, such as constructing, painting, moving scenery, managing properties and costuming; operating stage lighting and sound equipment; and operating the stage system.

10.  Selects script for production.

11.  Sees that all royalties, rental fees, and other fees/bills associated with a production are paid and maintains an accurate record of all expenses and receipts.

12.  Secures and reserves rehearsal and performance facilities with building administration.

13.  Advises and assists the Head of School with scheduling of school and community activities in the Upper School theatre.

14.  Oversees proper organization and storage of stock theatrical units and school-owned equipment and material on the high school stage, in the auditorium, and in the theatre classroom.

15.  Organizes, plans, and directs the respective play, including being responsible for:

a.      All publicity and programs

b.     Costume and properties, rental and purchase

c.      Lighting and sound design, and application

d.     Set design and construction

e.      Securing ushers

f.      Organizing and managing ticket sales

g.     Developing a rehearsal schedule 

h.     Any other duty necessary to the success of a production.

16.  Establishes performance requirements, enforces academic requirements, and verifies each student’s eligibility to participate in theatre activities.

17.  Submits to the Head of School, upon request, a year-end report including:

a.      List of participants

b.     Awards and honors received

c.      Summary of activities

d.     Recommendations for improvements.

18.  Organizes and implements theatre trips in accordance with school policy and regulations as well as student interest and ability. Arranges transportation, lodging, and meals for out-of-town events.

19.  Complies with federal and state laws, State Department of Education rules, and Board of Trustees policies.

20.  Meets with the Head of School to review goals for the theatre department productions.

21.  Ensures the safety of students by adhering to both stage safety while on stage and general school rules and regulations while on York Academy premises and traveling.

22.  Submits budget needs annually to the Head of School in accordance with established timelines and guidelines.

23.  Orders all supplies and materials necessary for theatre-related activities in accordance with established school procedures and budget allocations.

24.  Prepares lessons that reflect accommodations for individual student differences.

25.  Plans and uses appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.

26.  Creates an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.

27.  Other duties as assigned by the Head of School or other administrative staff.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Volunteers and students are involved in assigned activities.