Choreographer 1010 River Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 $20
- $30 an hour
- Part-time, Seasonal, Full-time $20
- $30 an hour
- Part-time, Seasonal, Full-time The Opportunity We're looking for an Choreographer to join our team of energetic theatre-loving educators building community one show at a time.
We're a tight knit group that prioritizes belonging , engagement, and the kind of permission to play that makes great teaching possible. You'll nurture future generations through theatre, help students find their voices, and rarely have two days that look alike. Who We Are All About Theatre is a Santa Cruz County theatre company with a mission to strengthen our county's creative spirit and distinct sense of place by empowering young people and sustaining a vibrant community of artists and audiences. We strive to be organized, supportive, and collaborative in our work together. Who You Are You're passionate about young people and theatre, and you bring four things to work every day: a positive attitude , a helpful instinct, genuine curiosity , and accountability for your part of the show. You like working on a team where everyone holds the same bar. More Details About The Job Overview As the Choreographer, you bring the story to life through movement, rhythm, and visual storytelling , while helping young performers grow in confidence, technique, and expression . You'll collaborate closely with the Artistic Director, Production Manager, and production team to ensure choreography is age-appropriate, inclusive, and aligned with the artistic vision of the show. Your success is measured firstly in how well students, parents, staff, and volunteers feel uplifted and supported . The final performances
- hopefully the choreography looks fabulous as well.
Summer Schedule Summer productions tend to operate on tight 3-week timelines . This requires additional preparation , and prioritizing efficiency, adaptability, and clarity in artistic choices to ensure feasibility within time constraints. Creative Leadership You help shape the movement language of the show and ensure choreography supports the overall artistic vision. You are helping performers to feel a stronger bond to their own bodies and empower them to express themselves physically . Collaborate with the Director/Co-Director, Musical Director, and production team to design choreography aligned with the vision of the production Ensure movement supports storytelling, character development, and musicality Participate in planning sessions, script reviews, and production meetings to maintain a cohesive artistic vision Adapt choreography to be age-appropriate, inclusive, and accessible for a range of skill levels Design choreography that showcases the abilities of a diverse cast , using layered levels and intensity while maintaining artistic integrity Collaborate with co-choreographers, assistants, or interns Rehearsal Leadership You lead choreography in rehearsals with structure, clarity, and encouragement . Your teaching approach prioritizes safety, growth, and confidence , while keeping rehearsals engaging and productive. Plan and lead all choreography rehearsals , including warm-ups and stretching to promote safety and injury prevention Teach choreography in an engaging, structured, and developmentally appropriate way Break down complex sequences into manageable steps for effective learning Provide individualized coaching and modifications to support dancers of all abilities and confidence levels Reinforce technique, rhythm, posture, timing, facial expression, and spatial awareness Work with the Stage Manager & Director to document choreography and spacing notes in an accessible format, including videos of the final routines Cultural Leadership You are a leader and a cultural ambassador . You create a positive rehearsal environment where students feel safe, supported, and excited . Foster an inclusive, encouraging rehearsal environment where all students feel valued and supported Encourage appropriate risk-taking, creativity, and growth Model professionalism and preparedness , including punctuality and teamwork Use age-appropriate teaching strategies to build confidence and understanding Recognize diverse learning styles and backgrounds within the cast Celebrate student progress and promote ensemble collaboration Collaborate with families, stage management, and teaching artists to support student growth Production Oversight You help transition choreography from the rehearsal room to the stage with clarity and consistency. Support spacing, formations, transitions, and entrances/exits during tech and dress rehearsals Provide clear notes after run-throughs to clean timing, formations, and alignment with music Be available during tech week to support performer readiness and backstage flow Troubleshoot movement or spacing challenges in collaboration with the Director and Stage Manager Ensure safety protocols are followed onstage and backstage Identify and communicate unique technical needs , including lighting zones, props, and set requirements Admin & Communication Duties We need you to own the details that ensure everyone has what they need. Maintain proactive communication with the Production Manager and production team Provide regular updates on dance readiness and flag challenges early Supervise Assistant Choreographers, interns, or accompanists assigned to the production Complete written audition feedback reports within two weeks of casting Required Knowledge & Experience Extensive dance experience Experience choreographing musical theatre productions Experience working with youth Experience with Google Workspace Additional Experience (Bonus Points) A degree in some relevant aspect of dance A degree in some aspect of youth education
Pay:
$20.00
00 per hour Application Question(s): Looking at the list of "required knowledge & experience" and the "additional experience", are there any elements that you feel like you are extra solid on? What elements would you want some training and support on? What age group do you most enjoy working with? Do you have any choreography, theatrical or teaching credentials / education?
Experience:
Educating Youth:
2 years (Required)
Choreography:
2 years (Required)
Location:
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (Preferred)
Work Location:
In person
