How to Apply
Applicants should submit:
Cover letter
Curriculum vitae
Names and contact information for 2 references
Mission Statement
ABOUT THE SCHOOL OF MUSIC, THEATRE & DANCE. SMTD cultivates artistic vitality, advances knowledge, and serves the public good through exceptional teaching, creative practice, scholarly inquiry, and community engagement. As a premier performing arts school in a world class public research institution, we prepare students to lead with both artistic excellence and ethical action, enriching society through the transformative power of the performing arts.
Responsibilities*
The appointee will teach courses in the Department of Musical Theatre, including Introduction to Musical Theatre, Musical Theatre History, and Senior Acting. Responsibilities include delivering instruction in the history and evolution of musical theatre as an art form, including its cultural, social, and artistic contexts, while connecting coursework to current theatrical practice and events; introducing foundational concepts, practices, and professional contexts to beginning students; and guiding senior students in advanced acting technique, text analysis, character development, and performance preparation for entry into the professional field. The successful candidate will also teach aspects of the business of acting, including topics such as agents and managers, professional unions and organizations (including Actors' Equity Association and SAG-AFTRA), financial literacy for performers, digital professional materials including websites and reels, and other practical tools for career readiness. The appointee will mentor students in their artistic growth and professional development, contribute to a collaborative departmental culture, and support the integration of acting, singing, and movement within the musical theatre curriculum.
The successful candidate will also participate in the adjudication of prescreen applications for prospective students to the Department of Musical Theatre, applying professional expertise in the evaluation of acting, singing, and dance performance, as well as assessment of artistic promise and preparedness for conservatory-style undergraduate training.
Required Qualifications*
The appointee will have significant professional experience in musical theatre performance and/or related creative practice, along with prior university teaching experience in musical theatre. The ideal candidate will demonstrate broad knowledge of the history and evolution of musical theatre as an art form, including its cultural, social, and artistic contexts, as well as expertise in acting pedagogy and performance training for emerging musical theatre artists. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to mentor and inspire advanced undergraduate performers while also effectively engaging students in foundational survey coursework. Current knowledge of the professional theatrical landscape and industry practices is essential. Demonstrated ability to empower, advocate for, and value a broad range of students of varied identities and experiences, as shown through pedagogy, mentoring, and related activities, is required. A BFA in Musical Theatre or Theatre, or equivalent professional experience is preferred.
Effort - 100%
Start date - 8/25/26
Expected date of offer - 6/30/26
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes. This position requires regular on-campus presence.
Union Affiliation
This position is covered under the collective bargaining agreement between the U-M and the Lecturers Employee Organization, AFL-CIO, which contains and settles all matters with respect to wages, benefits, hours and other terms and conditions of employment.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.