Show Instructor, Theatre Unlimited

Description

Summary:

The J’s Life Enrichment department provides support coordination to those who need it for participation in J programs. Life Enrichment services are designed to meet the individual needs of the participants with disabilities who benefit from extra support as they strive for success within community, recreation, and/or academic settings. Our Theatre Unlimited Show Instructor (TU Show Instructor) is a part time seasonal position. (The Theatre Unlimited Program has two running seasons. The Fall season runs from August through December, and the Winter season runs from January through May.) TU Show Instructor administrates, creates, and implements adaptive, universally designed theatre experiences. Working collaboratively with the production team, Life Enrichment and J theatre departments, and other J departments, the TU Show Instructor is responsible for overseeing the Theatre Unlimited program from show development and auditions through final performance and even possibly off-season skill-building workshops.

Responsibilities:

• Work cooperatively with the Life Enrichment Coordinator (LE Coordinator), Life Enrichment Manager (LE Manager), Music Accompanist, Production Assistants and all actors, and volunteers to effectively execute all Theatre Unlimited activities.
• Working with the Stage Manager and Music Accompanist, assign roles. Assignments should match to cast member’s strengths and interests. All participants are cast.
• Contribute artistic vision of the show in collaboration with LE Coordinator and LE Manager, keeping in mind the cast members’ abilities.
• Plan rehearsal details and conduct rehearsals and performances in a fun but safe manner. Communicate plans with LE Coordinator, who will then draft a game plan. 
• Together with LE Coordinator, have a pre rehearsal meeting (10-15 minutes prior to rehearsal). LE Coordinator will introduce the meeting, and TU Show Instructor will review game plan and rehearsal schedule.
• Work alongside the Technical Director at the Jewish Community Center to ensure a safe stage set up is achieved.
• Communicate needs that are related to other departments outside of the Life Enrichment Department at the J through LE Coordinator.
• Block the show and teach the cast. Provide simple choreography as needed.
• Assist actors with character development while sharing with them the vision for the show.
• Develop a costume plot with the Costumer. Keep in mind ease of use and allocated budget.
• Along with Production Assistants, ensure all materials are gathered and put away after rehearsals and performances. Ensure any materials that must be returned are accounted for. 
• Be mindful of allocated budget and ensure that the production is completed within budget. All purchased must be made through LE Coordinator/LE Manager.
• Communicate respectfully with participants and proactively address their concerns.
• Communications needed for participants/parents/guardians outside of rehearsal time will be provided through LE Coordinator.
• Keep LE Coordinator informed of any concerns, progress, and how the show is proceeding through generally and through bi-weekly meetings.
• Facilitate individual accommodations necessary to assist individuals to fully participate in activities with approval from LE Coordinator.
• Appropriately intervene in all crisis situations related to behavior or health as needed.
• Be mindful of the physical and emotional wellbeing of every Theatre Unlimited participant at all times.
• Recognize and respond to opportunities for problem solving.
• Know and understand all safety procedures of the J. Be able to lead the participants in the event of an emergency.
• Attend all training and meetings as required. Attend all rehearsals and performances.
• Adhere to Social Work Code of Ethics, HIPAA, and confidentiality guidelines always.
• Maintain good attendance and have reliable transportation.
• Follow all JCC rules, regulations, and standards.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Adapt script to fit the demographic with approval from LE Coordinator and LE Manager. 
• 12 hours per week (except for performance week which is increased due to tech and shows).

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED is required; Minimum of 18 years of age.
• College degree in Performing Arts or a related field is preferred.
• Prior experience working with individuals with disabilities is required, including understanding of unique needs.
• One or more years of previous theatre experience is required. 
• Strong organizational skills.
• Must have a teamwork mentality and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills
• Patience and ability to deal with multiple priorities at one time.
• Must be able to communicate effectively, verbally, and in writing, including relating to and communicate with colleagues, supervisors, and actors, as well as to varying skill levels.
• Ability to accept guidance and supervision.
• Ability to assist individuals in emergency situations, including fire, evacuation, illness, or injury.
• Should possess good character, integrity, professionalism, and adaptability.
• Demonstrate enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience, and self-control in a dynamic environment.
• Must have auditory, visual, ambulatory, cognitive, communications and physical ability to complete major tasks in the program.
• Demonstrated ability to use Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, Power Point)
• Current CPR/First Aid certification is a requirement of the position. Training will be provided as necessary.