Professor of Practice - Theatre Movement

Professor of Practice - Theatre Movement

 

SMU Position #50233

 

Anticipated Start Date: August 2022

 

The Division of Theatre, Meadows School of the Arts, Southern Methodist University seeks an outstanding Movement specialist and teacher of theatre Movement for a full-time, non-tenured, Professor of Practice, to serve in its nationally regarded BFA and MFA programs. With a faculty of working professionals and a long-standing partnership with the Tony-award winning Dallas Theater Center, we work to make and teach theatre that celebrates the human spirit and deeply engages with the larger world.

 

Although we are not seeking a specific movement discipline, expertise and preferably certification in  a system  that instills flexibility,  strength, expansiveness of breath, balance, concentration, embodiment, a full understanding of physical theatre and stage combat skills is desired.

 

The preferred candidate should evidence:

 

  • expertise and preferably certification in one of the prominent theatre movement techniques;
  • aptitude for identifying and addressing physical habituations;
  • SAFD Actor Combatant; with certification and  teacher certification a plus;
  • demonstrable skill in effectively engaging and mentoring students across the range of training levels from freshman BFA to third-year MFA students;
  • the ability to balance demanding teaching responsibilities with a professional artistic career;
  • an MFA, conservatory certificate or commensurate professional experience in the field.

The primary responsibilities for this appointment will be teaching movement in both undergraduate and graduate curricula. Instruction should include the development of a dynamic physical vocabulary, the traditions of movement­ based training, and a strong set of physical tools with which to create theatre.

Successful candidates will be highly collaborative. Coaching assignments in Main Stage productions will be based on specialties/expertise and/or combat training. Service may include academic advising, recruiting, student mentoring,

 

departmental service as needed, and will be negotiated based on teaching load and departmental needs.

 

SMU is located in Dallas, Texas, and is a long-time leader in the field of actor training. Salary commensurate with skills and experience. Benefits competitive. Candidates from underrepresented groups in higher education and women are especially encouraged to apply.

Candidates should  submit materials  via Interfolio  at apply.interfolio.com/94470 and should include (1) a cover letter, (2) CV, (3) sample syllabus (4) teaching statement, and (5) contact information for three references. Questions regarding the search may be directed to Kristi Dana, Search Committee Chair,

at kdana@smu.edu. Review of applications will begin December 15, 2021. To ensure full consideration for the position, the application must be received by December 15th, 2021, but the committee will continue to accept applications until the position is filled. The committee will notify applicants of its employment decisions after the position is filled. Hiring is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of a background check.

SMU will not discriminate in any program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. The Executive Director for Access and Equity/Title IX Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies and may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, accessequity@smu.edu.