Assistant or Associate Professor of Musical Theatre

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, coordination, and development for the Musical Theatre program.
• Direct or music direct one mainstage musical production annually.
• Teach coursework including Musical Theatre performance, history, audition techniques, and potentially private studio voice.
• Actively recruit top high school students and participate in SMTD recruiting activities.
• Advise and mentor students within the theatre program.
• Participate in faculty activities and service to the university and the School of Music, Theatre & Dance.

Requirements

• Terminal degree (MFA, PhD, or DMA) in Musical Theatre, Theatre, Music, or a related area (ABD will be considered if the degree is completed by September 1, 2026).
• Significant professional experience in musical theatre (e.g., Broadway, national tours, or major regional theatre) may be considered in lieu of a terminal degree.
• Demonstrated experience directing or music directing musical theatre productions.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Leadership experience in a professional or university theatre program.
• Demonstrated experience teaching musical theatre at the university level.
• Ability to teach in secondary areas such as acting, directing, dance (jazz, tap), or specific vocal techniques (mix/belt).
• Piano/keyboard proficiency sufficient for teaching performance courses, coaching, and rehearsals.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and rank.
• Comprehensive benefits package.

About the Company

Pacific Lutheran University is a community committed to the creation and advancement of knowledge through diversity and inclusion. The School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD) is a nationally recognized center for performance, education, and community, featuring the state-of-the-art Karen Hille Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Located on a beautiful 156-acre woodland campus in Tacoma, Washington, PLU integrates the liberal arts with professional studies and civic engagement.