Theatre Instructor

Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 41,328 - 68,880; Part time

Job summary

Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts in Chicago is seeking a part-time Theatre Instructor/Director to teach in our outreach program and on-site classes. The role requires a minimum of 5 years of teaching/directing experience and involves creating curricula, directing performances, and maintaining student communication.

The ideal candidate should have a strong appreciation for South Asian cultures and hold a Bachelor's degree in Theatre. This is a unique opportunity to empower communities through the arts.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience teaching/directing theatre.
• Strong understanding and appreciation of South Asian cultures, languages, and traditions (preferred).
• CPR and First Aid certification (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Create a 16-week curriculum for theatre classes.
• Cast, direct, and rehearse a scripted play Ahimsa for Freedom.
• Prepare students for their end-of-semester performance.

Skills

Communication skills

Classroom management

Understanding of South Asian cultures

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Theatre

Job description

Job Type: Independent Contractor, part-time
Salary: $30-50/hour (commensurate with experience)
Reports To: CEO
Start Date: March 2, 2026
Location: Multiple
Hours: TBD

JOB SUMMARY

Kalapriya is seeking a seasoned Theatre Instructor/Director to teach in our school outreach program, as well as classes on-site in the Kalapriya Studio.

ABOUT KALAPRIYA

Kalapriya is a vibrant nonprofit arts organization dedicated to empowering communities through the power of South Asian performing arts. Based in Chicago, Kalapriya serves as a cultural mainstay, drawing in diverse communities from Pilsen, Chinatown, Bronzeville, and beyond, to provide a platform for cross-cultural exchange. Through transformative dance, music, education, and community outreach, Kalapriya blends traditional and contemporary performances that showcase the beauty of South Asian culture and address the urgent need for dialogue across communities. Kalapriya fosters pride in cultural heritage while building inclusive spaces for all Chicagoans.

RESPONSIBILITIES FOR GROUP CLASSES AT KALAPRIYA

Create a 16-week curriculum for theatre classes at Kalapriya.

Prepare students for their end-of-semester performance.

Maintain regular communication with enrolled students.

Respond to prospective student inquiries, as needed by the office staff.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR GROUP CLASSES AT KALAPRIYA

Minimum of 5 years of experience teaching/directing theatre.

Strong communication skills and classroom management skills.

Strong understanding and appreciation of South Asian cultures, languages, and traditions (preferred).

Must complete a background check and provide professional references upon request.

RESPONSIBILITIES FOR SCHOOL OUTREACH PROGRAM INSTRUCTION

Cast, direct, and rehearse a scripted play Ahimsa for Freedom, written by Dr. Gowri Ramnarayan, based on these from the book Ahimsa by Supriya Kelkar.

Prepare students for their end-of-semester performance.

Maintain positive communication with school administration.

Create a semester-long curriculum appropriate to the student age group (grades 5-12)

QUALIFICATIONS SCHOOL OUTREACH PROGRAM INSTRUCTION

Bachelor’s degree in Theatre (preferred).

Minimum of 3 years experience working with youth in a school setting.

Strong understanding and appreciation of South Asian cultures, languages, and traditions (preferred)

Strong communication skills and classroom management skills.

CPR and First Aid certification (preferred).

Must complete a background check/fingerprinting, and provide professional references upon request.

Kalapriya is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.