Young Playwrights Project Teaching Artist​/Actor; Chautauqua Arts Education​/Seasonal

Young Playwrights Project Teaching Artist/Actor (Chautauqua Arts Education) – Seasonal Employment

Join the Chautauqua Institution as a Teaching Artist/Actor in our Young Playwrights Project (YPP). This part‑time, seasonal role supports a 3‑phase program that introduces 3rd and 4th grade students to play writing and culminates in student‑performed plays.

• Phase 1:
  Visit schools, present an assembly, and lead in‑class play writing lessons.
• Phase 2:
  Coach volunteer play‑reading groups through rehearsal and on‑site presentations.
• Phase 3:
  Guide students to the Chautauqua Institution, acting in the final staged readings.

• Implement program curriculum as directed by the Director of Arts Education and the Lead Teaching Artist/Director of Plays.
• Deliver scripted and improvisational performances during school assemblies.
• Lead volunteers in rehearsal and perform play readings.
• Type and process student‑submitted scripts for readability.
• Act in the Phase 3 performances and collaborate with the company on props, costumes, and set design.

• Experience in theater for youth programs.
• Background in acting and formal training in theater arts.
• Strong knowledge of theater improvisation.

• Excellent collaboration and teamwork skills.
• Positive “yes‑and” attitude in creative settings.

Hourly wage: $23.05 per hour.

Travel to and from Chautauqua Institution and within Chautauqua County for school visits will be reimbursed.

• Phase 1 School Visits:
  January 12‑16, 2026
• Play Preparation for Phase 2:
  February 27 – March 20, 2026
• Phase 2 Rehearsals & Visits:
  March 20 – April 2, 2026
• Play Selection Process:
  March 25 – May 1, 2026
• Phase 3 Production Needs:
  May 1‑7, 2026
• Phase 3 On‑site Rehearsals & Performances:
  June 13‑18, 2026

Limited on‑site housing may be available; remote work is possible for play preparation and selection tasks.

The Chautauqua Institution is a not‑for‑profit organization fostering education, arts, religion, and recreation. Located on Chautauqua Lake, it offers a vibrant summer season of visual and performing arts, lectures, and community programs.

Chautauqua Institution values Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA). We are an equal‑opportunity employer, welcoming applicants who demonstrate experience and expertise in IDEA.

Employees who refer a new hire receive a $500 referral bonus (after taxes). For seasonal positions, the new hire must remain employed for at least 30 days following the closing date of the season (last Sunday in August).

Chautauqua Institution and submit your application. Referrals increase interview chances by 2×.