Position Overview

The Department of Theatre & Dance at the University of Kansas(https://theatredance.ku.edu/) seeks a Visiting Assistant Professor of Theatre & Dance with a specialization in one or more of the following areas: Voice/Text, Movement, Musical Theatre, Acting. The appointment begins August 18, 2024, and is a limited-term, one-year position with the possibility of a second-year extension.

This is a full-time position with a 2:2 teaching load, alongside expectations for creative research and service contributions to the department. The ideal candidate will have an MFA in Theatre or equivalent professional experience, with a strong background in one or more of the specified performance areas. The faculty member will be responsible for teaching performance courses that contribute to the core of our performance program, which may include Voice/Text, Movement for the Actor, Musical Theatre, and Acting. Candidate may also Direct, Music Direct, or Choreography (depending on specialty) as part of our University Theatre production season.

Our department values practitioners who are actively producing creative work and can bring fresh, innovative perspectives to the pedagogical process. The successful candidate will exhibit a passion for mentoring students through the various stages of their academic and artistic development and will engage with contemporary teaching methods to prepare students for a changing artistic landscape. In line with the Department of Theatre & Dance's dedication to fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity and embodies a deep respect for the dignity of all individuals, we seek a candidate who demonstrates a commitment to DEIB initiatives. The successful applicant will be expected to actively engage with and contribute to departmental and university-wide initiatives focused on these areas. They should employ inclusive practices in the classroom and through their creative work, ensuring equity and success for students and colleagues from historically underrepresented groups. Furthermore, we expect the candidate to have a demonstrated record of, and a clear vision for, continuing contributions to DEIB initiatives through all facets of their professional activities, including teaching, creative activity, service, and collegial interactions. Must have appropriate authorization to work in the U.S. by the start date of employment.

Job Description

Teaching 40% - 2:2 teaching load in undergraduate or graduate programs in the Theatre & Dance department.

Research 40% - Maintain and sustain an active and productive program of creative research/creative activity.

Service 20% - Service to the Department, the College, the University, and the professional of Theatre & Dance service on various types of committees.

Collegiality - All faculty members are expected to act in a manner that promotes collegial relationships and shows respect toward students, staff, and colleagues. Faculty members are expected to meet satisfactory standards of performance in all three areas of responsibility and to carry out those responsibilities in accordance with the Faculty Code of Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct.

Required Qualifications

MFA or PhD in Theatre OR two or more years of professional experience as a practitioner in dance, theatre, film, television, and/or other media, with significant experience in one or more areas of theatre performance.
Evidence and dedication to high-quality teaching at the undergraduate or graduate levels in Theatre & Dance.
Demonstrated commitment to DEIB advocacy.