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.

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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.

Market Intelligence Report

Drama and Performing Arts Instructor is part of the K-12 Teaching category.Explore our market intelligence report to see how AI and hiring demand are shifting for these roles.

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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

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.

Build a portfolio: direct or assistant direct a production, document rehearsal plans, budgets, and cue sheets; include video of classroom instruction if possible.

Join professional networks (Educational Theatre Association, USITT), attend festivals/workshops, and seek mentorship from experienced theatre educators.