Assistant Professor of Theatre (Tenure-Track)

Assistant Professor of Theatre (Tenure-Track)

• 497199
• Full-Time
• Arts & Communication

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Department: Arts & Communication Salary: Commensurate with Experience/Education

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Description:

University of Houston-Downtown, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Arts and Communication

Position Type: Full-Time, Tenure-Track

Rank: Assistant Professor

Start Date: Fall 2027

Position Description

The Department of Arts and Communication at the University of Houston-Downtown in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Theatre with expertise in Acting, Directing, and/or Movement. We seek an innovative teacher-scholar and artist committed to excellence in undergraduate education and the development of emerging theatre artists in a unique urban university environment.

The successful candidate will teach a 4-3 course load over the two long semesters in a variety of modalities consisting of introductory and advanced courses in acting, directing, and/or movement for the stage; mentor student performers and directors; contribute to production activities including directing major productions on a rotating basis; and participate actively in departmental, college, and university service. Candidates should demonstrate commitment to student-centered teaching and the ability to engage students from a broad range of backgrounds, experience levels, and academic or professional goals.

The appointment begins in Fall 2027.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will:

• Teaches 4-3 course load over the two long semesters in a variety of modalities each academic year in Acting, Directing, Stage Movement, Voice and Physical Performance, and related theatre courses.
• Supports and contributes to an innovative curriculum that integrates contemporary performance practices and prepares students for professional and graduate school opportunities.
• Directs departmental productions as part of the annual theatre season.
• Mentors students in performance, directing projects, auditions, portfolio development, and career preparation.
• Advises theatre majors and contribute to student recruitment and retention efforts.
• Maintains an active record of scholarly, creative, and/or professional activity consistent with tenure-track expectations.
• Collaborates with colleagues across disciplines to support interdisciplinary artistic initiatives.
• Participates in departmental, college, university, and professional service activities.

Required Qualifications

• MFA or PhD in Theatre, Acting, Directing, Performance Studies, or a closely related field. ABD candidates will be considered if degree completion is expected before the appointment start date.
• Demonstrated expertise in acting and directing.
• Experience teaching theatre at the collegiate level or evidence of strong teaching potential.
• Record of professional creative work in theatre and performance.
• Experience working with students from varied backgrounds.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional directing and performance credits.
• Expertise in movement pedagogies such as Viewpoints, Suzuki, Laban, physical theatre, stage combat, intimacy choreography, or related approaches.
• Experience developing culturally responsive and inclusive theatre curriculum.
• Ability to contribute to other areas of the theatre program, including devising, voice, performance studies, dramaturgy, or community-engaged performance.
• Experience recruiting, advising, and mentoring undergraduate students.
• Evidence of successful collaboration across artistic disciplines.

About UHD

The University of Houston-Downtown is a comprehensive public university and a constituent institution of the University of Houston System. UHD is designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and a Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) and is committed to providing a student-centered education that prepares learners for professional success and civic engagement.

About the Theatre Program

The Theatre Program at the University of Houston-Downtown prepares students to become thoughtful artists, leaders, and engaged citizens through rigorous academic study and creative practice. Located in the heart of Houston, one of the nation''s most vibrant and culturally diverse cities, UHD offers students unique opportunities to engage with a thriving professional arts community.

Faculty are committed to fostering a learning environment that values creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and artistic innovation. The program encourages exploration of theatre as a means of storytelling, community engagement, and social impact.

Application Materials

Applicants should submit:

• Letter of Application addressing qualifications and interest in the position.
• Curriculum Vitae.
• Statement of Teaching Philosophy.
• Statement of Creative and/or Scholarly Activity.
• Portfolio of directing, performance, movement, or creative work (links accepted).
• Unofficial Graduate Transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation.

Review of Applications

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For full consideration, applications should be received by November 23, 2026.

All positions at the University of Houston-System are security sensitive and will require a criminal history check.

The University of Houston System and its universities are Equal Opportunity Institutions. Everyone is encouraged to apply.