Who We Are
The Mayerson JCC connects people so that they can live happier and fuller lives, creating a more vibrant Jewish community. The JCC helps to foster social connections between its members and guests alike, bringing people together through a wide variety of programs and events. With an expansive fitness center, highly regarded early childhood school and senior center, arts and cultural events offered throughout the year, and classes for every age, the JCC connects, enriches, and inspires over 27,000 visitors per month. The JCC welcomes and engages everyone, regardless of race, religion, or ability.
Position Summary
The Theatre at the J Director leads and oversees the artistic, educational, and logistical aspects of theatre classes, programs, and productions. This role is integral to creating a nurturing and inclusive educational environment for performers of diverse backgrounds and skill levels. The Director will meet students where they are, foster ensemble-based learning, and guide them toward artistic and personal growth through theatrical experiences. They work closely with and lead a production-based creative team to support classes and the overall creative vision and execution of productions, which seasonally include a fall play and spring musical. Program growth is desired, potentially including additional areas of class focus within theatre curriculum and skill building, as well as broadening generational offerings.
Responsibilities:
- Teach Everyone’s a Star (ages 8-14), Everyone’s a Star Mini (ages 5-7), and Theatre & Creative Writing (girls, ages 14-18), and more offerings as developed.
- Select age-appropriate and culturally responsive shows that reflect the values and goals of the youth theatre program.
- Develop and implement curriculum that aligns with best practices in theatre education and youth development.
- Teach acting, movement, voice, and theatre fundamentals.
- Foster a strong sense of ensemble and build a community rooted in trust, collaboration, and respect.
- Direct youth theatre productions, including staging, blocking, and character development.
- Coordinate and lead production meetings with creative team.
- Work with Theatre and Creative Writing students to devise and develop their own original work for performance.
- Collaborate with outside vendor for lighting and sound design needs.
- Organize, purchase, rent and/or acquire production elements (costumes, props, sets, etc.) within budget constraints.
- Manage production and program budgets responsibly and transparently.
- Pursue grant and other funding opportunities to support the program.
- Maintain clear communication and scheduling with students, families, and production staff.
- Implement fair and transparent casting procedures to ensure equitable opportunities for all participants.
- Coordinate parent meetings, volunteer opportunities, and other engagement events. (Engage parents and guardians as active partners in the theatre experience.)
- Understand and enforce policies related to student safety, behavior, and well-being.
- Actively recruit students from a variety of backgrounds and communities.
- Collaborate with other departments (e.g., marketing, development, across programming) to promote and enhance programs.
- Other duties as assigned.
The expectation is that the Director attends and leads all rehearsals, performances, and production meetings.
CANDIDATES SHOULD HAVE THE FOLLOWING SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Comfortable working with children ages 5 – 18, as well as older adults
- Prior directing experience. Youth programming or educational theatre experience preferred
- Demonstrates sound judgement and takes initiative
- A proactive, collaborative approach
- Strong communication, time-management, and organizational skills
- Customer service and interpersonal skills
- Patience, flexibility, and the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Must be able to work evenings and weekends
This position description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel in the above position.
BENEFITS WE OFFER:
- Talent Management & Professional Development programs and learning opportunities
- Competitive 401(k) program with company match and additional contribution opportunities
- Complimentary single membership to the Mayerson JCC Fitness Center
- Discounts to the onsite Café, Spa, and other programs and services
- Paid Time Off
- Business casual dress
- Vibrant and collaborative work environment
- Compensation: 24 hours/week part-time position at $24-$28/hour
