Early Stages Program Director, First Stage Children’s Theater

BACKGROUND: Founded in 1987, First Stage Children's Theater has grown from a small theater for young audiences to a nationally acclaimed company drawing annual audiences of more than 135,000 people. With a season including six mainstage plays and two First Steps shows (more than 300 performances annually), First Stage has become one of the largest programs in the nation. First Stage Theater Academy teaches life skills through stage skills—offering classes for students of all ages, cultures and abilities. Our professional staff strives to provide the best theater training we can while being conscious of the development of each individual student—helping each student to take their next step as an actor and as a person.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The Early Stages Program Director will oversee the evaluation, maintenance and development of Theater Academy programming for students age 3 through 4^th grade. This dynamic role will include significant involvement with adjunct staff, parents and students. The Early Stages Program Director will report to the Academy Director. Duties include (but will not be limited to):

• Recruiting, hiring, and evaluation of all Lower elementary faculty, teaching assistants, and student intern positions.

• Develop new programming and maintain existing programming.• Assist in creating and overseeing a progressive year round curriculum.

• Train teachers in Creative Drama methods and pedagogy

• Be available to teach as needed.

• Assist in supervising all academy classes for ages 3 through 4^th grade.• Maintain communication with Academy adjunct staff regarding scheduling and classroom needs.• Aid in facilitating systems and communications in the Academy Office.

QUALIFICATIONS: This position requires advanced knowledge of theatre both as an art form and as a tool for developing life skills. Expertise in developing and overseeing Creative Drama curriculum and the ability to confidently and publicly articulate the Academy program and philosophy are necessities. Excellent communication skills are critical, along with the ability to adjust communications styles to varied youth, parent and professional populations. The position will occasionally require local travel to schools and other community destinations. Advanced degree in Children’s theatre or Child Drama, teaching experience, curriculum/lesson plan development and youth work experience are required. Some weekends and evenings required. . The position will occasionally require local travel to schools and other community destinations. Spanish-speaking capabilities are advantageous but not required.

HOURS/SALARY: This is full time position with benefits. Salary is commensurate with experience.

TO APPLY: Mail cover letter, resume/cv, and the contact information for three references to First Stage Children’s Theater, 325 W. Walnut, Milwaukee, WI or e-mail materials to Academy Director John Maclay at jmaclay@firststage.org. NO CALLS.

First Stage is an equal employment opportunity employer functioning under an Affirmative Action Plan