Middle School Drama/Musical Director

Middle School Drama/Musical Director

The Middle School Drama/Musical Director reports to the Superintendent, Principal, and/or Supervisor of Fine & Performing Arts. Position Summary: The Middle School Drama/Musical Director provides visionary artistic leadership for the school's yearly musical production, with a commitment to excellence, innovation, and elevating the program to the highest standard of performance. This role is responsible for the entire production, including but not limited to, auditions and casting, while directing all aspects of the performance. The director will design and lead rigorous and purposeful rehearsals, developing and guiding students' skills in acting, storytelling, music, and stage presence while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and artistic growth. The director will ensure alignment across all creative and technical elements to produce a cohesive and high caliber performance while working with the assistant director. The director will maintain clear communication with students, families, and school personnel, manage rehearsal schedules and production timelines, and ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all participants and staff.
General Duties and Responsibilities: The Middle School Drama/Musical Director is responsible for all aspects of the production, including, but not limited to:
Selection of musical
Submitting requisitions for rental/procurement of rights
Organizing & scheduling auditions
Casting
Facilities use
Rehearsals
Performances
Facilitating auditions
Rehearsal schedule & protocols
Creates & distributes rehearsal schedule & maintains attendance for staff, volunteers & students
Delegating responsibilities to Middle School Drama/Musical Assistant Director, staff & volunteers
Recruiting & coordinating volunteers along with Nutley Schools Theatrical Society (Parent Organization)
Works with BOE administration & Nutley Schools Theatrical Society (Parent Organization) regarding the many procedural items that are to be taken care of included but not limited to: Budgeting Set items Rental items Costuming Programs Scorebooks/Scripts Rehearsal tracks Promotion/publicity Ticket sales Principles & techniques of acting, singing, dancing & music Blocking & staging Choreography & blocking of all musical productions Singing & vocal production Coordinating cast, crew, lighting & sound design Oversees all aspects of creating the set Communication with art teacher if needed for set design Create & oversee online ticket sales platform Responsible for overseeing the entire production Overseeing all rehearsals
Qualifications: Ability to maintain a positive work environment Strong interpersonal and communication skills Proven ability to produce high-quality theatrical/music experiences Strong leadership and organization skills Passion for student-centered arts education Committed to continuous program growth and to creating meaningful performance opportunities Appropriate New Jersey Certification or New Jersey Substitute Certification required