The role of a theater instructor involves teaching advanced students, developing professional techniques, and delivering lectures. The instructor also hosts classes and assignments and evaluates work. Some theater instructors choose to work on a volunteer basis. These individuals can have a broad range of experience. In addition, theater instructors can help local communities offer local offerings of theater or dance.
Commitment And Time
When it comes to teaching theater classes, there are a few things to remember. According to Zoe Reardon, one of the best ways to teach theater is to teach by example. Theatre instructors should be willing to share their knowledge with students and help them find their voice in the classroom. They should also use the lessons they learn to make the world a better place. The first lesson is that you must be dedicated to a task. Commitment is vital in any job, and employers respect dedicated workers. In a theater class, students often take the lead on special projects. They may be the designer, stage manager, crew chief, or director. Those skills are highly valued by employers and should be cultivated in students. Another lesson is to be on time. Being on time is crucial in the theatre business. Being late will not only hurt your performance, but it will also affect the work of your colleagues. You must arrive on time for classes and deadlines. Showing up late will cost you time and money, and employers appreciate employees who show up on time.
Duties
The duties of a theater instructor include developing and teaching professional techniques, hosting classes, giving lectures, assigning work, and evaluating student work. Some teaching positions also involve assisting local theater companies or other community organizations. In such situations, obtaining professional training as an additional qualification is beneficial. The duties of a theater instructor vary from place to place but typically require at least a bachelor’s degree and a teaching certificate. Private theater schools typically require different certifications, while public institutions often use Praxis tests to verify a theater teacher’s knowledge and experience. Also, many private theater institutions require teachers to have experience directing plays and teaching in urban settings.
Other duties may include selecting and acquiring performance pieces. Faculty may also serve on academic committees or represent the school’s arts program. They may also maintain student records, organize performance groups, direct rehearsals, and create course materials. A theater instructor’s duties may involve staying abreast of new developments in the field and attending professional conferences.
Education Required
Whether you’d like to teach high school or college students, an education in theater is necessary to become a theater instructor. While it’s easy to become a drama teacher by obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree, becoming a theater professor requires a Master of Arts degree and licensure from a state licensing board. Several state licensing boards require a teacher to complete student teaching to be licensed.
Theater instructors often teach in public or private schools, although they can also teach at the college level. These positions are relatively stable, as many teachers remain employed at the same campus for years. To become a theater teacher, you must have a bachelor’s degree and a teaching credential, but the exact requirements vary depending on the institution. A teaching credential and extensive experience as a director are also important since directors and teachers must know to teach students effectively.
In addition to preparing students for teaching careers, theater education programs also prepare students for work in art institutions, community colleges, museums, and galleries. Graduates can also work as arts policy analysts. The program emphasizes arts-based research methods and a broad study of educational practices and addresses pressing questions in the cultural and educational arenas of the theatre. It explores the transformative power of the theatre.