Choreographer

Location: Summer Place Theatre, Rehearsals and Performances are in Naperville, IL

Job Type: Contract

Duration: Production meetings will begin via zoom in early 2024, Auditions and rehearsals will begin in May 2024. Opening Night: July 19 Closing Night: August 4

About Summer Place Theatre:

The Summer Place, Inc. (or Summer Place Theatre as it has come to be known) got its start back in 1966 as a way to keep students active and their acting skills sharp over the summer months.

It was founded by Donald “Doc” Shanower, then Dean of Theatre at North Central College in 1966. 2016 was our 50th season, and we dedicated our shows to Doc. Sadly, we lost Doc in 2015, just shy of our big 50th anniversary. We miss you, and most of all we thank you for creating this long-lasting Naperville institution.

The Summer Place, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit, volunteer-supported community theatre, based in the Naperville area, strives to provide professional quality year-round theatre arts entertainment. We are committed to providing:

-A supportive and collaborative environment for artists;

-High quality, culturally enriching entertainment to the community;

-Educational opportunities for all ages through mentoring and performance based participation.

-The Summer Place, Inc. gets funding through ticket sales, advertising sales, concessions proceeds, grants, and the generous donations of our patrons.

Job Description:

Summer Place Theatre is seeking an experienced and talented Choreographer to join our creative team for the upcoming production of West Side Story. As a Choreographer, you will play a crucial role in bringing this classic musical to life through dynamic and compelling dance sequences.

Responsibilities

Collaboration:

Work closely with the Director, Musical Director, and other production team members to ensure a cohesive vision for the overall performance.

Choreography:

Create original and innovative choreography that aligns with the style and themes of West Side Story. We are seeking a choreographer that will create original choreography for the show, while maintaining the style of Jerome Robbins. This show will require a highly experienced choreographer with the ability to teach and clean dances that require excellent technique.

Rehearsals:

Conduct regular dance rehearsals to teach, refine, and perfect choreography.

Rehearsals will be most likely weeknight evenings and Sunday afternoons. Exact schedule is TBD, but the availability to be in Naperville 7-10pm will be required for most rehearsals

Provide constructive feedback to performers to enhance their dance skills and overall performance.

Collaborate with the rehearsal schedule set by the Director to ensure efficient use of time, coming prepared for each rehearsal

Required Skills

-Proven experience as a Choreographer, preferably with experience in musical theatre productions

-Strong understanding of dance techniques, styles, and ability to adapt choreography to suit different skill levels

-Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for effective collaboration with cast and crew.

-Ability to work within a creative team and contribute to the overall artistic vision of the production set by the director and the theatre

-Knowledge of West Side Story and its historical and cultural context is a plus

Summer Place Theatre is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.