Description
Job Posting: Theatre Director
Position: Theatre Director Organization: Shady Side Theatre@Centenary United
Methodist Church (CUMC), 6248 Shady Side Road, Shady Side MD 20764
Production Schedule: Two shows per season September – May.
Actor Age Range: 6 & up
Position Overview
Shady Side Theatre is seeking a passionate, organized, and collaborative Theatre
Director to lead our theatre program. This individual oversees two productions per
season— typically one play and one musical — and they work closely with actors
ranging from ages 6 & up, many of whom are new to the stage.
Our theatre is a small but dedicated ministry of the CUMC, supported by a committed
group of volunteers who assist with production design, set building, sound and lighting,
as well as costumes. The director will guide the artistic vision while working
collaboratively within a community-centered, family-friendly Christian environment.
Key Responsibilities
• Direct Theatre Productions — Plan, stage, and direct two full productions per
season (one play and one musical).
• Audition & Casting Management — Organize and oversee auditions; cast roles
with sensitivity to varying experience levels.
• Rehearsal Planning — Create and manage rehearsal schedules that balance
artistic needs with the availability of our performers and volunteers.
• Actor Development — Guide actors in basic acting skills, movement, and vocal
skills such as voice projection.
• Volunteer Collaboration — Coordinate with volunteer teams responsible for
sets, props, costumes, sound, and lighting.
• Creative Vision — Work with the production team to select show titles, interpret
scripts, and shape the overall artistic direction of each production.
• Communication — Maintain clear communication with parents, church
leadership, and volunteers.
• Safety & Conduct — Pass a background check and complete safe sanctuary
policy which done online through Safe Gatherings. Foster a positive, inclusive,
and safe environment for spiritual growth and the well-being of all participants.
Qualifications
• Experience directing or assistant directing in theater, community theater, or
educational theater.
• Experience with working with actors of all ages, including those with no prior
stage experience.
• Familiarity with community-based arts programs and comfort working within a
faith-friendly, Christian environment.
• Ability to collaborate with and guide volunteer production teams.
• Strong organizational skills, including scheduling, communication, and production
planning.
• Musical theater experience (vocal coaching, choreography coordination, or
musical direction) is a plus.
• Patience, creativity, and a genuine passion for helping young performers grow.
Time Commitment
• Two productions per season, typically requiring:
o Pre-production planning (script selection and auditions)
o 10–16 weeks of rehearsals per show
o Two weeks of technical rehearsals with the production team (cue to
cue) and one tech week of rehearsals with actors & production team per
show
o Performance weekend
• Additional meetings as needed.
Stipend
Based on experience and the scope of each production.
How to Apply
Please submit a summary of qualifications and an expression of interest to Larry Cox,
Production Manager shadysidetheatre@gmail.com