Job description

Manhattan, KS

About This Role

Kansas State University’s Theatre Program is seeking a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Acting/Directing with an emphasis in Musical Theatre to teach in its BA and BS Theatre programs. The ideal candidate must be proficient in teaching at all levels, guided by principles of team teaching and collaboration.
About Us

The School of Music, Theatre, and Dance has been the fastest-growing unit at Kansas State University over the past six semesters, achieving 40% growth during this time. We’re accredited by NAST, NASM, and NADTA and is housed within the College of Arts and Sciences, the “intellectual and academic core of the University” with 23 academic units. A land-grant institution, Kansas State University is a Carnegie “very high research” and “engaged” university with more than 3,000 students who participate in curricular and co-curricular activities offered through the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance.

The School of Music, Theatre, and Dance currently has 194 undergraduate Music majors pursuing the B.M., B.A., and B.M.E. degrees; 46 graduate Music students pursuing M.M. degrees; 49 Theatre majors pursuing the B.A. and B.S. degrees; 33 graduate Theatre students pursuing the M.A degree in theatre with a concentration in drama therapy; 39 secondary majors in dance; and offers minors and certificates in Music, Theatre, and Dance. The school has 55 full-time and one part-time faculty member, is supported by a Director and 4-Associate Directors, a full-time academic advisor, and three full-time administrative staff members.

Kansas State University is a distinguished public, land-grant institution renowned for the excellence of its faculty, students, staff, academic programs, research, and service. It is a three-campus system with the main campus located in Manhattan and the other campuses in Olathe and Salina. Online degree programs, professional development conferences and workshops, and enrichment classes and programs are offered through the K-State Global Campus. The university has over 20,000 students from all 50 states and over 100 countries. K-State was recognized by the Princeton Review as one of America’s best colleges and U.S. News & World Report lists the university among the top 75 public universities in the U.S. The mission of K-State is to foster excellent teaching, research, extension, and service that develop a highly skilled and educated citizenry necessary to advancing the well-being of Kansas, the nation, and the international community.

K-State is centered on a 664-acre campus in Manhattan located 50 miles west of the state capital of Topeka and 125 miles west of Kansas City in the rolling Flint Hills. Manhattan provides access to a wide range of educational, cultural, medical, and recreational programs and facilities. The local economy is bolstered by K-State and its proximity to Fort Riley, a large U.S. Army installation, and is the home of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF).
Worksite Option

This position is required to be performed on-site. Work is performed on employer premises or designated assignment location. The candidate must be able to lift and move heavy objects weighing up to 50 lbs.
What You’ll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

• An MFA or equivalent terminal degree in Acting, Directing, or Musical Theatre.

• Demonstrated expertise in Musical Theatre performance and direction with a record of professional experience in the field of musical theatre and theatre

• 3+ years of experience teaching acting, directing, and Musical Theatre courses at the collegiate level.

• Principles of Community: A strong commitment to K-State’s principles of community in theatre education and production.

• Collaboration and Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively.

• Demonstrated commitment to advancing inclusive excellence through research, teaching, and creative practice.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with practices of intimacy direction and consent training

• Professional Engagement: Active participation in professional organizations, conferences, and networks related to performing and directing theatre.

• Additional Experience: Interest and experience in another acting directing area. Other areas such as Choreography, Improvisation, Stage Movement, or other teaching areas are also encouraged.

• Professionally affiliated in such organizations as Actors’ Equity Association (AEA)ACTORS’, The Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC), or others.

Other Requirements:

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment

How to apply

Please submit the following documents:

1. Cover letter highlighting your interest in the position, your interest in the responsibilities and qualifications of the position.

1. Resume or Curriculum vitae (CV) including relevant academic and professional experience.

1. A statement of teaching philosophy.

1. Digital Portfolio showcasing examples of your work, demonstrating creativity, variety, and innovation.

1. Contact information for three professional references.

Please send any questions to Prof. David Mackay, Chair of the Kansas State University Assistant Professor: Acting/Directing Search Committee ([email protected]).
Screening of Applications Begins

Screening begins immediately and continues until position is filled.

For best consideration, apply by February 27th, 2025).
Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$60,000 – $70,000.

To apply, please visit: