Director

About this role

Director – Elf Jr. (elementary age cast)

If you agree that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear, this is your time to shine! The Next Act Theatre is seeking a Director for our Fall 2026 Junior production of Elf Jr. We’re looking for a candidate who loves kids, theatre, and putting the two together to make something magical.

The Next Act is a new community theatre in Albany, NY that is focused on fostering a love of theatre by exposing students to all aspects of production. The Director will work closely with a group of largely volunteer creative partners on such production considerations as costuming, makeup, lighting, and sound. The successful candidate will be able to balance the technical and artistic needs of the production, keeping everyone united and having fun, and wrangle our young cast, even when they’re acting like a bunch of cotton-headed ninnymuggins.

The fall program at Next Act runs September through December, but firm dates have not yet been established. The successful candidate will work with the Board of Trustees to establish the final rehearsal schedule.

Responsibilities

• Directing and staging the production of El Jr., from auditions (September 2026) through performances (December 2026), for our cast of students aged 6-12
• Create an environment that teaches professionalism and theatre etiquette, providing an experience that is educationally enriching as well as creatively fulfilling
• Upholding the ideals of the Next Act Theatre to foster an environment of safety and inclusivity for all students
• Collaborating with creative partners, including but not limited to Music Director, parent volunteers, and student crew
• Developing physical staging, movement, and choreography as needed
• Maintaining a rehearsal studio that is focused, supportive, and organized
• Working with the Board of Directors to set the rehearsal and performance calendar
• Assisting in the process of hiring a Music Director

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience directing theatre, especially with children
• A genuine love and excitement for working with kids
• Experience in an educational setting
• Demonstrable leadership skills

Stipend

The compensation for this position is $1,000. The Next Act Board of Trustees believes in good faith that this stipend is fair, reasonable, and competitive for the work outlined.

Apply

Qualified applicants should complete our application form and submit a resume and letter of intent using the link below no later than May 29th:

Elf Jr. – Employment Application Form