Professor of Theater and Performance Studies

The Department of Theater and Dance at Bates College invites applications for an Open Rank (Assistant, Associate or Full Professor) position in Theater and Performance Studies to begin August 1, 2023.

We seek a scholar-artist with primary expertise in Theater and Performance Studies who specializes in traditionally underrepresented areas of performance, especially histories, literatures, and performance/practices of the global-majority, including Latinx/e, Asian/Asian American, Indigenous, and African Diasporic peoples. Candidates with additional expertise in queer theory, feminisms, intersectionality, gender/sexuality studies, and/or inclusive modes of devising performance will be especially welcome. A robust research agenda, with evidence of publication, conference presentations, and/or other scholarship, is an expectation.

The position will be housed in the Theater Program, which is partnered with the Program in Dance. The successful candidate will teach foundational courses in performance theory, theater history, dramaturgy, and dramatic literature, as well as upper-division courses in their areas of specialization. We are interested in a candidate able to teach courses that enliven and expand our Theater Studies track and our current curriculum, with a focus on intersectional categories of analysis, racial equity, social justice, and community-engaged learning, and we are looking for someone who is passionate about fostering critical dialogue and making vital links to other disciplines. Candidates with demonstrated success working with historically underrepresented, first-generation, and marginalized student populations are especially encouraged to apply.

In addition to a five-course load, this position consists of student advising and supervision of senior theses. Candidates will demonstrate commitment to undergraduate pedagogy, and a sincere desire to teach theater and performance studies in a liberal arts environment. Depending on the expertise and interest of the candidate, courses could be cross-listed with other departments and programs on campus, including but not limited to: Dance, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Africana, American Studies, Latin American Studies, and Anthropology.

Candidate Qualifications:

The candidate must demonstrate a record of achievement in theater and performance studies scholarship, teaching and practice, curricular development, and advocacy experience, as well as a deep commitment to inclusive and equitable pedagogies and practices. This evidence will qualify the applicant for an appointment in a position of open-rank (tenure-track Assistant Professor or tenured Associate/Full Professor). Candidates must have a PhD in Theater and/or Performance Studies in hand by the time of appointment.

Application Instructions:

Review of applications begins December 15th, 2022, and will continue until the position is filled. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

Applicants should submit the following materials:

  1. Letter of Application (cover letter)
  2. Curriculum Vitae
  3. Statements on the following: Teaching Philosophy, Inclusive Pedagogies, Research
  4. Three Letters of Recommendation
  5. Two sample syllabi of relevant courses
  6. A sample of scholarship (of up to 25 pages which may be a work in progress)