2023 High School Theatre Leaders
JOB DESCRIPTION: HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE LEADER
Updated January 2023
PROGRAM STATEMENT:
Spencer Community Theatre’s High School Theatre Leader (HSTL) Program is designed to train the next generation of theatre practitioners in the skills necessary to become working members of the theatre community. SCT offers practical, hands-on training tailored to provide a unique, individualized work experience. While immersed in the world of Community and Children’s Theatre, our Theatre Leaders gain the skill-set and knowledge that embody well-rounded theatre practitioners and students. Spencer Community Theatre is one of the largest community theatres in Iowa and offers the region’s largest complement of children’s educational programming.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
The SCT High School Theatre Leaders will be responsible for a number of tasks, including but not limited to:
- Assisting SCT teaching artists/ interns by helping to implement lesson plans and classroom management during summer theatre camps.
- Participating in each summer production, teens and youth, in a capacity that entails a significant contribution. A significant contribution includes: serving in a management/ assistant director capacity; serving as an actor with a lead or supporting role, OR a smaller role and crew participation; or serving as a designer and crew position.
- Additionally, HSTLs assist with the planning and execution of children’s theatre workshops and tours as needed. These are planned as SCT is contacted throughout the course of the summer to work with various programs and organizations (libraries, YMCA, girl & boy scouts, etc.) SCT works to give 10 days of notice if HSTL is needed for a workshop.
- Putting in a minimum of 10 hours a month for set construction and painting. Set construction and painting usually takes place on the weekends (all day Saturday and Sunday afternoons). SCT Tech Director or the production’s Stage Manager typically sends out emails regarding exact times of set construction & painting; HSTLs may come in as their schedule allows as long as they contribute a minimum of 10 hours a month.
SCT OFFERS:
SCT offers HSTLs extensive guidance and hands-on experience in development and programming in order to foster this unique skill-set. HSTLs are a vital and valued part of SCT’s small, tight-knit staff. Additionally, SCT offers: Cooperation for credit, pending approval from their school; and a $750 stipend.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Excellent communication, organizational, and writing skills.
- Experience in theatre or music is required.
- Experience working with children is strongly preferred.
- HSTLs should possess strong self-motivational skills that enable them to use time efficiently, solve problems effectively and creatively, and try a variety of methods to achieve a desired effect.
- Applicants with a background in children’s programming, an upbeat personality, and flexible work style will be strongly preferred.
- A significant portion of this program involves working directly with children of all ages.