Adjunct Instructor, Introduction to Technical Theatre - Scenic Design

About the role

Abilene Christian University is hiring an Adjunct Instructor for Introduction to Technical Theatre, a foundational course for first-year BFA students in scenic design. The course introduces students to the principles, practices and vocabulary of theatrical design and production, and teaches them the technical skills needed to take part in ACU Theatre productions. The position requires the employee to be a professing Christian and willing to support the university's Christian mission.

Key responsibilities

• Instruct the introductory scenic-design course for 31 BFA freshmen, covering vocabulary, scene-shop procedures and safety, and the use of hand and power tools.
• Cover basic scenic-construction techniques, measuring, scale and introductory drafting, and the identification and use of common scenic materials.
• Teach basic scenic painting, colour mixing, texture and surface treatments, and the interpretation of scenic drawings, plans and construction documents.
• Supervise practical assignments, assess student progress and foster a safe, collaborative and professional scene-shop environment.

Required profile

• An MFA in Scenic Design, Theatre Design, Technical Theatre, Technical Direction or a closely related discipline; candidates with an equivalent combination of graduate education, professional training, teaching experience and professional standing may also be considered.
• Extensive knowledge of technical theatre and design, with particular expertise in scenic design, scenic construction, drafting, carpentry, scenic painting, materials, finishes, installation and stagecraft.
• Experience working on large-scale theatrical productions in an academic, regional or professional setting.
• A professional résumé showing active engagement and recognized standing in theatrical design and production.
• Ability to give effective one-on-one instruction and lead large groups of students at beginning and advanced skill levels.
• Strong communication, organization, collaboration, classroom leadership and project-management skills.

Required skills

• Scenic construction, carpentry and scenic painting
• Drafting and reading of scenic drawings, ground plans and elevations
• Use of hand tools, power tools and scene-shop equipment
• Understanding of colour, composition, proportion, scale and visual storytelling