Assistant Professor of Practice, Screen & Stage Directing/Acting (UPDATED)

Note: The rate of pay field has been updated from DOE to a pay range.

The University of Arizona School of Theatre, Film & Television (TFTV) invites applications for a full-time Assistant Professor of Practice in Live and Screened Performance (LSP), beginning August 2026, with a specialization in directing and acting. This renewable, non-tenure-track position plays a central role in advancing our BA in Live and Screened Performance by integrating rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on creative practice in both stage and screen performance. The successful candidate will teach directing and acting for screen and stage, with opportunities to expand into related areas of expertise. The position also includes directing live productions, ensuring that students gain meaningful, practice-based experience that reinforces and deepens the theories explored in class.

TFTV is a vibrant, collaborative community of artists and scholars dedicated to storytelling across stage and screen. The School offers nationally respected training in theatre arts, film and television production, musical theatre, and live and screened performance. Students learn in an environment that emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, professional preparation, and creative research.

With access to state-of-the-art production facilities, performance venues, and film production resources, TFTV prepares students to become innovative leaders in the performing and media arts industries.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

• Teach undergraduate acting and/or directing courses for stage and screen, including foundations in naturalism and contemporary realism, as well as other courses aligned with the candidate's qualifications and the School's needs.
• Provide students with a foundational vocabulary and practical techniques for character development in both live and screened performance.
• Integrate experiential learning, critical analysis, collaboration, and professional preparation into all courses, supporting the Provost's "Success for Every Student" priorities.
• Mentor and evaluate student performers and directors, fostering artistic growth and disciplined creative practice.
• Cultivate a pluralistic learning environment that promotes dignity, belonging, and empowerment for all students.
• Direct departmental productions on a regular cycle and/or mentor student directors to support the application of techniques taught in LSP courses.
• Guide rehearsal processes that integrate stage and screen performance practices.
• Maintain an active professional profile as a performing artist, director, and teacher, contributing to the vitality and visibility of the program.
• Participate in service and outreach to the School, College, University, community, and profession.
• Collaborate with colleagues on recruitment initiatives, community engagement events, festivals, auditions, and other public-facing activities.
• Contribute to a collegial, collaborative culture that advances TFTV's mission and strengthens connections across stage and screen disciplines.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs)

* Collaborative team player with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
* Ability to serve as liaison among directors, designers, performers, faculty, and production staff in student-centered environment.

• BFA degree in Theatre with a focus on Directing or Acting.
• Demonstrable record of successful teaching at the university level.
• Professional experience as an actor in stage and screen.
• Professional experience as a theatre director.

• MFA degree in theater with an emphasis on directing or acting.
  
• Record of creative work and outreach that thoughtfully and conscientiously engages the local community, and/or state and national professional organizations.
  
• Experience advising and mentoring a variety of undergraduate student populations.
  
• A national profile through research, performance or directing