Summary

Community Education | Performing Arts Center (PAC) | Available: Immediately | Closing: Open until filled

Description

Westonka Community Theatre (WCT) is a growing non-profit artistic production company based in the Westonka District and operates in collaboration with Westonka Community Education. The mission of WCT is to provide quality theater experiences for residents of all ages and abilities.

POSITION: Assistant Music Director for Bye Bye Birdie

REPORTS TO: Music Director for Bye Bye Birdie and WCT Executive Committee through the Board Chair

TIME: This is a project-based position for the duration of the production of Bye Bye Birdie. Production meetings start March 13 (can be remote); Auditions April 27-30 (in-person); Sing-thru May 23 (in-person); audition info night April 17 (in-person); Rehearsals start June 5; show dates July 21-23, 28-30 .

COMPENSATION: $750

The Assistant Music Director is responsible for assisting on all musical aspects of the production. The Assistant Music Director collaborates with the Music Director, Company Manager, Creative Manager, and the Executive Committee to ensure that the production is guided by the WCT mission and credo. The Assistant Music Director must be cognizant of achieving WCTs goals for community engagement, artistic strength, financial stability, fundraising and audience engagement. The Assistant Music Director provides a unifying understanding of the music, guiding the cast and orchestra through the musical production of Bye Bye Birdie alongside the Music Director.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • BM, BFA,  MM, MFA degree or equivalent experience

  • Knowledge of community theater programs and experience with all aspects of show production.

  • Ability to work with volunteer community members of all ages and skill levels.

  • Strong collaboration, communication, and organizational skills.

  • A deep understanding of how the music for the production should serve the story, setting, drama, and emotional context.

  • Strong knowledge of vocal techniques, piano skills, and conducting.

  • Ability to play an instrument is also ideal.

 

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Foster a sense of community and belonging among all members of the production team, cast, crew, and orchestra.

  • With the Music Director, gain support and sign-off on a unifying vision for the music to the Director, Executive Committee, Creative Manager, Company Manager. Articulate this musical vision to the cast and orchestra.

  • With the Director, Creative Manager and Executive Committee, attend pre-production, production, & post-production meetings for planning and implementing the Director’s overall vision of the show, and the Music Director’s vision for the music.

  • With the Music Director, Director, and Choreographer, observe and attend cast auditions. Offer casting thoughts, as requested.

  • Co-plan, lead, and cast the orchestra, as well as any accompanist needed to support rehearsals.

  • Work with the Music Director, Stage Manager, and Choreographer to effectively plan and execute a rehearsal schedule for both vocalists, as well as the orchestra. 

  • Guide the volunteer community members in the cast and orchestra through the process of understanding their music, shaping and blending their sounds, creating a shared sense of ensemble to help everyone achieve your musical vision.

  • Collaborate with the Music Director, Director and Choreographer to ensure blocking transitions and cast on stage requirements between musical and dance numbers are clearly planned and executed together.

  • Consult with the sound designer as needed to ensure technical aspects of the sound of the show (eg. sound effects, etc) are implemented to your vision.

  • Assist the Music Director with vocalists and the orchestra members in the Sitzprobe rehearsal. Ensure all music is given adequate time and attention at this first rehearsal where vocalists are able to sing with the orchestra.

  • Conduct the orchestra through all dress rehearsals and performances, as assigned. Take notes for both orchestra and vocalists, and have the Stage Manager help communicate those notes if not delivered in person after rehearsals.