Drama Camp Counselor (Early Primary Grades)

Asheville Performing Arts Academy is looking for an energetic, creative and reliable person to lead our dance program and serve as a member of our creative teams for our 2024 Summer Camps. Someone who wants to make a lasting positive impact, share their passion for dance, and help every student reach their fullest potential. The APAA is an environment that fosters a love and appreciation for the arts through genuine and quality student-teacher relationships, which encourage and help all performers to excel at their dreams. We offer high quality instruction and educational experiences because we are committed to the art of teaching and the teaching of the arts.  

Position Summary

Our Musical Theatre Workshop camps center around favorite stage musicals, where students will learn musical numbers and perform a shortened production at the end of each week. Campers will not only perform in many dance numbers and scenes but will work on the technical aspects that all productions need, like sets, props, and costumes. Camps meet each week from 9-3 from June 17-August 9, 2024. 

As the Drama Camp Counselor for our primary grades, you are responsible for leading the students through scene work, choreography, arts and crafts, and theatre games for each week. You are also responsible for directing and choreographing the showcase that occurs each Friday afternoon. This position is a contract position for the summer but opportunities are available to continue working during our school year programming. 

The ideal candidate has previous experience and a passion for arts education, a vested interest in drama pedagogy, and exceptional leadership/mentorship qualities. Priority will be given to candidates with relevant teaching experience and matching availability, in addition to demonstrated skill and artistry in composition and instruction. We offer comprehensive onboard training, in addition to continued mentorship and peer support.

Job Responsibilities (include, but are not limited to):

• Oversee the 1st-3rd grade Summer Camp Programming
• Serve as an active part of the creative team for each summer camp production
• Provide a hands-on learning environment
• Coordinate and communicate effectively with parents, staff, and students
• Participate in staff meetings, including training and class observations
• Attend community performances, special events, and promotional events
• Oversee leveling placement and update curriculum
• Address client concerns in a diplomatic and professional manner
• Studio upkeep
• Opportunities for teaching, leading workshops, and productions may be available

Preferred Skills & Qualifications:

• 3+ years of studio/community arts program teaching or equivalent experience
• A BA or BFA in Early Childhood Education, Theatre, or Drama
•  Familiarity with G Suite, Canva, and TeamSnap is preferred but not required
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills with an adept ability to pivot and prioritize
• Clear communication skills and management/mentorship of other instructors, staff, families, and dancer
• Willingness to generate artistic, age-appropriate material, including music selection and costumes
• Comfortable, willing, and able to teach ages 5+ or multiple genres, beginner to advanced, with a passion for working with children in ways that build confidence
• Team player in a collaborative environment
• Strong organizational and administrative skills
• Strong classroom and time management skills, with the ability to mentor staff in both areas
• Continual learner and receptive to feedback
• Willingness to contribute to a community-based learning environment and student growth-focused culture
• Growth focused and forward-thinking mindset to further the development and success of the dance program

All candidates must apply by emailing a resume and references to Heather Gallagher at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please provide immediate availability through August 2024.

For optimal consideration, please ensure resume experience highlights theatre training or previous teaching/arts administrative experience.

Job Type: Full-Time, Contract

Pay: $20-$30/hr based on experience, paid weekly from June-August

Hours: 30-40/week

Schedule:

• 8-hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Asheville, NC 28803: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work 

Experience:

• Directing: 3 years (Preferred)
• Drama education: 3 years (Preferred)

Shift availability:

• Mondays-Thursdays from 8:45am-3:15pm
• Fridays from 8:45am-4:00pm
• Day Camp
• Half-Day opportunities available

Work Location: 55 Shiloh Road, Suite 4, Asheville NC 28803