Actor Teacher

WHO WE ARE

Creative Action is a nationally recognized youth arts education organization in Austin, Texas. As the largest provider of creative learning programs in Central Texas, we use the arts as a medium to inspire creativity, unlock potential, and transform the lives of students of all ages. Through interactive classroom performances, after school residencies, and community based programs, our team of professional teaching artists inspire youth to be creative artists, courageous allies, critical thinkers and confident leaders in their communities.

WHO WE WANT

Creative Action’s School Based department is seeking a highly motivated and proactive Actor Teacher to deliver exciting pre-written interactive drama based programs in person for students in Pre K through 5th grade. We are looking for a team oriented individual who is passionate about working with young people and possesses a growth mindset and a can do attitude. This position requires a creative problem solver who can anticipate challenges, set positive intentions, and build trust within a diverse community.

We seek Teaching Artists who possess a deep respect for the ideas of young people and a steadfast commitment to Social Emotional Learning and Social Justice. Our ideal candidate believes that all people deserve equal opportunities and should be valued for their unique life experiences. This role is a reflection of the core values of Creative Action which include Dreaming Big, Creating Community, Standing Up, Striving for Excellence, and Having Fun.

Applicants must demonstrate flexibility along with excellent organizational and interpersonal skills. Native Spanish speakers, people of color, and applicants with experience in Theatre of the Oppressed or Theatre in Education are strongly encouraged to apply as we strive to ensure our staff reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

ABOUT THE ROLE: THE COURAGE TO STAND

We are currently hiring one performer for the specific role of Paul(a). To maintain the established narrative regarding allyship and social dynamics, we are seeking a performer who can authentically portray a white fifth grade student of any gender. Paul(a) is a geeky 5th grader who loves writing, says what they are thinking, and is loyal to their family and friends. The narrative follows Paul(a) as they are targeted by a popular student but eventually find support through friendship.

This role interacts closely with the character of Alex, who is portrayed as a shy and sweet Black fifth grader of any gender who loves kickball and processes emotions internally. The performance explores how Alex learns to overcome a freeze response when witnessing a Paul(a) being bullied to become a courageous bystander.

The Actor Teacher for the Brave Schools program serves as a primary performer in The Courage to Stand, which is an interactive performance that teaches young people to creatively investigate the idea of courage and how to act as a courageous bystander. Students learn to examine the choices, risks, and consequences of intervening to help the target in a bullying situation. You can learn more about this program on our webpage.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Memorize the program script and comprehensively understand the throughline of the residency including all learning objectives and essential questions.

• Deliver programs in person across various school districts including Austin, Manor, Del Valle, Round Rock, and Eanes.
• Train and rehearse on programs during the August and September period and attend all scheduled cohort meetings throughout the year.
• Maintain a consistent and regular attendance record to foster student relationships and ensure program continuity.
• Arrive punctually for all assignments and follow required staff sign in and sign out procedures on campus.
• Provide a safe and supportive environment for young people following the Health and Human Services Commission Minimum Standards.
• Represent Creative Action professionally on campuses and communicate effectively with parents, students, and school administration.
• Respond in a timely fashion to all electronic communications and maintain consistent contact with Creative Action staff.
• Support assessment and evaluation efforts by collecting teacher satisfaction surveys and participating in program improvement.

• While this specific role, Paul/a, is performed in English, native Spanish speakers and bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply to support the broader linguistic diversity of our programming.

REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or its equivalent.

• Consistent availability between the hours of 7:00 am and 1:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
• Commitment to the tour cycle from August through January or March with minimal conflicts.
• Reliable transportation or a personal vehicle to travel to various school campuses as necessary.
• Ability to pass all required background checks and fingerprinting for state licensing and applicable school districts.
• Willingness to obtain and maintain current CPR and First Aid certification prior to the start date.
• Physical capacity to move and position oneself effectively to facilitate classes, supervise students, and manage transitions across school campuses.
• Ongoing ability to provide verbal reminders, encouragement, and clear instructions to young people.

• Active participation in organizational efforts toward anti racism and inclusive social justice practices.

AUDITION PROCESS

Auditions may be conducted with a group. Each audition consists of three components which are;

• Monologue/Performance (on your own)

• Facilitate a dialogue/moment of exploration with the group, related to your monologue/performance piece

• Facilitation worksheet (which will prepare you to facilitate a short dialogue) – this will be handed in at the audition.

Candidates will be evaluated on both their performance skills and their ability to facilitate spontaneous exploration with students.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Pay: Starting at $21 an hour.

• Ongoing paid training and professional development opportunities.
• A supportive, collaborative, and creative team environment.

• An opportunity to work with young people and help build a space where students can express themselves.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND COMPLIANCE