Middletown Public Schools

 

Fall/Spring Dramatics Director – High School

 

Under the direction of the High School Principal, the responsibility of the High School Dramatics Director is to oversee, guide, direct and produce a Fall and Spring main stage production.

 

Overall Responsibilities

There are a wide variety of responsibilities which come with being the Dramatics Director. The list below is not inclusive of all responsibilities, but is a general overview of expectations for the position. The majority of student activities require planning time and/or supervision beyond the school day, the stipend for the Director is in place for this reason. No additional pay and/or compensations days will be granted for work done in the capacity of the Director. The Director must follow all school district policies and regulations and must enforce the rules of Middletown Policies and Procedures, as well as, Rhode Island General Law.

 

Duties and Responsibilities

 

·         Design and conduct recruitment to attract new theatre participants.

·         Teach acting principles and techniques to individuals and groups and conduct readings to evaluate student’s talent.

·         Teach enunciation, diction, voice development, and dialects, using voice exercises, speech drills, explanation, lectures, and improvisation.

·         Discuss and demonstrate vocal and body expression to teach acting styles, character development, and personality projection.

·         Assign non-performing students to backstage production tasks, such as constructing, painting, and moving scenery; managing properties and costuming; operating stage lighting and sound equipment; and operating the stage counter-weight system.

·         Select scripts for a play.

·         Sees that all royalties, rental fees, and other fees/bills associated with a production are paid and maintain an accurate record of all expenses and receipts.

·         Assure proper organization and storage of stock theatrical units and school-owned equipment and material on the high school stage, in the auditorium, and in the theatre classroom.

·         Organize, plan, and direct the respective play, including being responsible for:

o    All publicity and programs

o    Costume and properties rental and purchase

o    Lighting and sound design and application

o    Set design and construction

o    Securing ushers

o    Organizing and managing ticket sales

o    Developing a rehearsal schedule

o    Any other duty necessary for the success of a production

·         Maintain performance requirements, enforce academic requirements, and verified each student’s eligibility to participate in theatre activities.

·         Ensure the safety of students by adhering to both stage safety while on stage and general school rules and regulations while on Middletown School District premises and traveling.

·         Order supplies and materials necessary for theatre-related activities in accordance with established district procedures and budget allocations.

·         Plan and uses appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.

·         Schedule, coordinate, and supervise all fundraising projects and follow School Committee Fundraising Policies.

·         Maintain accurate financial records regarding fundraising activities, and deposit fundraising monies and receipts with Student Activities Coordinator and Business Manager.

·         Ability to supervise and assist students effectively.

·         Promote good public relations by personal appearance, attitude, and conversation.

·         Interact with Superintendent and/or School Committee and present information as requested.

·         Interact in a positive manner with staff, students, and parents.

·         Serve as a role model for students.

·         Counsel students on matters concerning school procedures, rules, and regulations.

·         Respond to routine questions and requests in an appropriate manner.

·         Make contacts with the public with tact and diplomacy.

·         Maintain respect at all times for confidential information, e.g., student records, etc.

·         Comply with Federal and State laws, R.I. Department of Education rules, and School Committee policies.

·         Assist officers and members with planning the year’s meetings and activities.

·         Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.

·         Good organizational/leadership skills.

·         Work with other school clubs and organizations in calendar scheduling.

·         Meet established deadlines.

·         Communicate with parents about events.

·         Perform other duties as assigned by the High School Principal or designee.

 

 

 

Qualifications

·         Valid R.I. Teaching Certification (Preferred).

·         Documentation of a clear BCI/FBI report.

·         Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate school events.

·         Work effectively with large and small groups.

·         Basic first aid/CPR (Preferred).

·         Effective, active listening skills.

·         Organizational and problem solving skills.

·         Ability to communicate ideas and directions clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.

·         Previous experience in Drama as a participant and/or advisor or related position.

·         Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Superintendent and/or School Committee may deem appropriate or acceptable.

 

 

 

 

First Reading - October 20, 2011

Second Reading and Approval - November 17, 2011