Assistant Professor, Dance - Musical Theatre & Jazz Focus, Shenandoah Conservatory

Shenandoah University’s Dance Department is accepting applications for an Assistant Professor of Dance (Musical Theatre & Jazz Focus) in the Shenandoah Conservatory. This is a full-time benefited position located on our main campus in Winchester, Virginia.

Shenandoah Conservatory of Shenandoah University seeks an exceptional teacher, with a focus on Musical Theatre and Jazz Dance, to join its dynamic performing arts faculty. This full time and career-contract track Assistant Professor position will begin in August of 2027.

The Dance Department & The Musical Theatre Program: The Dance Department engages close to 60 dance majors and 100 musical theatre students in rigorous professional training that is equally grounded in ballet, modern dance, and jazz training. Core training is complemented by an extensive composition sequence, three mainstage concerts per year in the 600-seat Ohrstrom-Bryant Theatre, and numerous opportunities for creative & performance work. Extensive outreach opportunities include international performance-and-study tours. The Dance Ensemble has been featured in concerts at the Kennedy Center, Strathmore Hall, and other professional venues in New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, DC.

Shenandoah Conservatory's BFA Musical Theatre degree is among most selective and the longestestablished programs in the country. With a continuing reputation for excellence in pre-professional training and a constant eye on the industry, the program provides highly individualized education in a rigorous, yet supportive environment. The school's geography allows for easy access to and regular interaction with theatre professionals from New York City as well as Washington D.C. Grounded in the foundations of musical theatre, the program places primary emphasis on contemporary trends and current musical styles, including pop/rock musicals and vocal technique, entrepreneurship, and digital media.

About the Shenandoah Conservatory and University: Shenandoah Conservatory was founded in 1875 and is located at the head of the historic Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, VA, 70 miles west of Washington, DC. Over 650 students are enrolled in baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral curricula in the areas of music, theater, and dance, and are taught by a dynamic and diverse faculty of over 125, half of whom are full-time. Shenandoah University is a diverse institution of approximately 4,000 students enrolled in baccalaureate, masters and doctoral curricula in business, arts and sciences, health professions and performing arts.

Shenandoah University is an independent, coeducational institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. www.su.edu. Shenandoah University is committed to enriching its educational experience and culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration, and staff. All candidates are strongly encouraged to include a statement in their cover letters addressing ways in which they may be able to contribute to that commitment.

Responsibilities: The successful candidate will serve as a member of the Dance Department faculty and collaborate closely with both the Dance and Musical Theatre programs in fulfilling the following responsibilities: teach musical theatre dance styles and jazz techniques for dance majors, musical theatre majors, and non-majors; teach additional movement-based courses per expertise, as needed; contribute choreography and movement direction for Dance Department and Musical Theatre productions; and actively participate in Departmental, Conservatory, and University activities, including advising, recruitment, auditions, mentorship, and committee service. Additional teaching assignments for the position will be based on areas of expertise/interest.

Requirements: Candidates will be expected to possess the following:

1. A national profile in dance performance with significant experience related to musical theatre productions;
2. A significant portfolio of creative/scholarly work in choreography and/or publication;
3. A terminal degree in Musical Theatre or Dance;
4. A record of successful teaching at the collegiate level; and,
5. A demonstrated ability to thrive within an intensive but collegial Conservatory environment.

Choreographic experience in a variety of settings (musical theatre productions, classical jazz, industry settings, etc.) is highly desirable.

How to Apply: 

Complete application submissions will include a letter of intent, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a qualified candidate is selected. A pre-employment background check will be required. If the job requires driving for University business, a satisfactory driving record will also be required.

**Note: A pre-employment background check will be required, and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire. 

** Authorization to work in the United States is a pre-condition of employment. At this time, Shenandoah University is not in a position to sponsor international visas.

Shenandoah University values individuals and communities' unique and diverse perspectives locally and globally. It seeks to foster mutual understanding in an inviting community where individuals are welcome and respected. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic or national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or on any other basis protected under applicable law.