Performing Arts Program - Assistant Director of Theatre for Musical Productions

Sacred Heart University; Fairfield (CT); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Sacred Heart University is seeking an Assistant Director of Theatre for Musical Productions to provide artistic, musical, and operational leadership for the Theatre Arts Program within the Division of Student Affairs. The role partners with the Director of Performing Arts to develop high-quality theatrical programming and support student development.

The position involves serving as musical director and coordinating music for multiple productions per semester, while expanding recruitment and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in music, musical theatre, theatre arts, performing arts, or a related field required; master’s degree preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in musical direction, conducting, and piano accompaniment.
• Experience with theatrical productions, rehearsals, auditions, and performances.

Responsibilities

• Provide oversight and leadership for all musical elements of the Theatre Arts Program.
• Serve as musical director, conductor, and/or piano accompanist for up to three productions each semester and for ancillary events.
• Prepare and distribute musical materials for rehearsals, auditions, and performances.
• Coordinate music rehearsal schedules for productions and events.
• Assist with artistic leadership and implementation of productions.
• Maintain a library of music, scores, and related materials for students.

Skills

Musical direction

Conducting

Piano accompaniment

Student mentoring

Leadership

Recruitment outreach

Education

Bachelor's degree in music or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

Position Summary

The Assistant Director of Theatre for Musical Productions provides artistic, musical, and operational leadership for the musical components of the Theatre Arts Program within the Division of Student Affairs. This non‑academic position works closely with the Director of Performing Arts to develop high-quality theatrical programming, support student participation and development, fulfill Theatre Arts Program grant requirements, and expand recruitment and outreach efforts.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

Musical and Artistic Leadership

• Provide oversight and leadership for all musical elements of the Theatre Arts Program.
• Serve as musical director, conductor, and/or piano accompanist for up to three full theatrical productions each semester, as well as ancillary events presented by the Theatre Arts Program.
• Prepare, organize, and distribute all musical materials required for seasonal productions, rehearsals, auditions, and performances.
• Coordinate music rehearsal schedules for all productions and events involving music.
• Assist with the artistic leadership and implementation of Theatre Arts Program productions and programming.
• Maintain and grow a comprehensive library of music, scores, recordings, and related materials that is organized and accessible to students.

Student Support and Program Administration

• Be available daily to assist, advise, and support students participating in the Theatre Arts Program.
• Oversee and encourage student involvement in productions, performances, rehearsals, and other program activities.
• Serve as a liaison for Theatre Arts Program students and support students in understanding and fulfilling their TAP grant obligations.
• Foster an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive environment that promotes student engagement, artistic growth, accountability, and a strong sense of community.
• Assist the Director of Theatre with the creation and implementation of new programs and student activities, including student‑led productions and performances.

Recruitment and Retention

• Participate fully in the recruitment of prospective Theatre Arts Program students.
• Interview and audition incoming and prospective students seeking Theatre Arts Program grants and participation in the program.
• Represent the Theatre Arts Program at recruitment events, auditions, open houses, and other University programs.
• Develop and maintain relationships with high school theatre programs, educators, students, and community partners to increase awareness of the University’s Theatre Arts Program.
• Support outreach and recruitment initiatives designed to attract talented and engaged students to the program.
• Work with the Director of Theatre to focus on retention of Theatre Arts students through individual meetings and workshops

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Other Attributes

• Bachelor’s degree in music, musical theatre, theatre arts, performing arts, or a related field required; master’s degree preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in musical direction, conducting, and piano accompaniment.
• Experience working with theatrical productions, rehearsals, auditions, and performances.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to coordinate multiple productions, rehearsal schedules, and deadlines.
• Ability to work effectively with college students and provide appropriate guidance, mentorship, and support.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
• Experience with student recruitment, audition processes, or high school theatre outreach preferred.
• Availability to work evenings and weekends as required by rehearsals, performances, auditions, and special events.

Unusual Working Conditions

Varied schedule, including nights and weekends.

This position reports to the Director of Theatre Arts and collaborates closely with Theatre Arts Program staff, production personnel, students, University departments, and external partners.

Pre-Employment Requirements

All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check.