Assistant Teaching Professor, Musical Theater Performance

ASSISTANT TEACHING PROFESSOR, MUSICAL THEATER, PERFORMANCE

SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY - The Department of Drama, within the College of Visual and Performing Arts, a highly ranked BFA program uniquely integrated with a major regional theater, seeks to hire an assistant teaching professor in the Musical Theater program with expertise in one or more of the following areas: vocal performance, musical theater performance, directing, music

direction. The department is particularly interested in candidates who have communication abilities and cross-cultural competencies to maximize their effectiveness with many different groups of students, colleagues, and community members.

We are looking for collaborative colleagues who will participate in the life of a vibrant department. Selected candidates will teach courses at all levels within the performance curriculum, and may serve as stage director, music director or associate music director for departmental productions. Relevant advanced degree required. This is a three-year position beginning in Fall 2026.

About The College of Visual and Performing Arts

The College of Visual and Performing Arts at Syracuse University is committed to the education of cultural leaders who will engage and inspire audiences through performance, visual art, design, scholarship, and commentary. We provide the tools for self-discovery and risk-taking in an environment that thrives on critical thought and action. To learn more about the college, our distinguished faculty, and our program, please visit our websites at www.syr.edu, www.vpa.syr.edu.

This position is part of a bargaining unit and is represented by the union SEIU, Local 200United.

Qualifications

• MFA or other relevant master's degree required.

Job Specific Qualifications

• Demonstrated professional experience, teaching, and creative activity.
• Extensive knowledge of the Musical Theater repertoire
• Demonstrated teaching excellence.
• Commitment to the development of a curriculum that responds effectively to the artistic needs of an ever-changing profession, and that prepares an array of students to assume leadership roles.
• Ability and willingness to collaborate with faculty in all programs (Acting, Musical Theater, Theater Design and Technology, Stage Management, and students in our B.S. Drama degree) in the ongoing life of a top-quality pre-professional training program.

Responsibilities

• Teach a variety of courses at all levels (e.g., Musical Theater Performance, Vocal Performance, Music Fundamentals, Musical Theater Audition, History of Musical Theater etc.), as assigned by the Chair and based upon expertise.
• Serve as both an academic and creative advisor to students, guiding them in the creation and realization of professional quality work in accordance with current emerging best professional practices.
• Participate in service and committee work for Department, College of Visual and Performing Arts, and Syracuse University.

Physical Requirements

Not Applicable

Tools/Equipment

Not Applicable

Application Instructions

In addition to completing an online application, for full consideration, submit the following materials online:

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Teaching Philosophy
• Name and contact information for a minimum of four (4) references.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but priority consideration given to candidates who apply by June 15, 2026.

For further information contact Professor Rebecca Karpoff, Search Committee Chair (rjkarpof@syr.edu)