Drama and Performing Arts Instructor

Career Guide
Teaches acting, voice, movement, and stagecraft; directs productions and oversees rehearsals and performances. Plans curriculum, evaluates student work, and coordinates sets, lighting, costumes, and budgets for shows and showcases.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design standards-aligned drama curriculum and lesson plans
  • Teach acting, voice, and movement techniques
  • Direct plays, musicals, and showcases; run auditions and casting
  • Plan and manage rehearsals, production schedules, and budgets
  • Coordinate technical theatre (sets, lighting, sound, costumes)
  • Assess student performance and provide targeted feedback
  • Secure performance rights and ensure safety/compliance for minors
  • Advise drama club and coordinate festivals/competitions

Career Progression

Can Lead To
Theatre/Performing Arts Department Chair
Fine Arts Director or Program Coordinator
Postsecondary Theatre Instructor/Professor
Transition Opportunities
Stage Manager or Production Manager
Arts Education Program Manager (nonprofit/museum)
Artistic Director/Producer (community theatre)
Casting Associate/Casting Director

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills
Technical theatre (lighting, sound, set construction)Directing full productions and managing rehearsals at scaleStandards-based curriculum design and assessmentLicensing/performance rights and production budgeting
Development SuggestionsAssistant direct or stage manage at a community theatre; complete a teacher prep course or workshops in directing, tech theatre, and assessment.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range
Entry Level$42,000-$55,000
Mid Level$55,000-$75,000
Senior Level$70,000-$95,000
Growth Trend
stable

Companies Hiring

Major Employers
Public School DistrictsCommunity Colleges & UniversitiesCommunity Theatres and Performing Arts Schools
Industry Sectors
EducationArts & Culture (Nonprofit)Entertainment & Performing Arts

Recommended Next Steps

1
Decide target setting (K–12 vs. postsecondary/private). For K–12, enroll in an approved teacher preparation program and obtain state licensure; for college roles, pursue an MFA.
2
Build a portfolio: direct or assistant direct a production, document rehearsal plans, budgets, and cue sheets; include video of classroom instruction if possible.
3
Join professional networks (Educational Theatre Association, USITT), attend festivals/workshops, and seek mentorship from experienced theatre educators.