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Acting Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bensenville Park

Theatre Instructor

Bensenville, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Under the direction of the Cultural & Fine Arts Supervisor, the Theatre Instructor plans, organizes ... Instruct ages 5 and up in a variety of acting techniques including vocal projection, improv, and ...

For the Love of the Arts Inc

Be Seen First

Creatives

Crown Point, IN · On-site

$75 - $100/day

Arts Instructor For the Love of the Arts, Inc. Serving SHINE Recovery Café, SHINE Youth Café ... Acting * Theatre * Musical Theatre * Improvisation * Stage Production * Public Speaking Music

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All JobsActing Instructor JobsActing Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Acting Instructor information

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How much do acting instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for acting instructor in Chicago, IL is $12.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $12.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an acting instructor?

Acting Instructors are professionals who teach the art of acting to students of various skill levels, ranging from beginners to advanced performers. They design lesson plans, conduct acting exercises, and provide feedback to help students improve their performance skills, stage presence, and understanding of dramatic techniques. Acting Instructors may work in schools, universities, community programs, or private studios, and often have a background in theater, film, or television. Their goal is to help students develop confidence, creativity, and the technical abilities needed for acting careers.

What do you need to teach acting as an acting instructor?

To teach acting as an acting instructor, one typically needs relevant training or a degree in theater, acting, or a related field, along with experience in performance. Strong communication skills, knowledge of acting techniques, and the ability to teach and evaluate students are essential. Some positions may also require certifications or credentials in teaching or drama education.

How do you become an acting instructor?

To become an acting instructor, individuals typically need extensive acting experience, often including professional stage or screen credits, and may pursue a degree in theater or performing arts. Gaining teaching skills through workshops or assistant teaching roles and obtaining relevant certifications can also enhance qualifications for teaching acting at schools or studios.

What degree do you need to be an acting instructor?

To become an acting instructor, a bachelor's degree in theater, drama, or a related field is typically required. Many instructors also have advanced training or a master's degree in fine arts (MFA) or theater to enhance their teaching credentials and acting skills.

What is the difference between Acting Instructor vs Acting Coach?

AspectActing InstructorActing Coach
CredentialsTypically requires acting experience, teaching credentials, or theater/film educationOften has acting experience, coaching certifications, or industry-specific training
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, theaters, acting schools, universitiesPrivate sessions, workshops, industry settings
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, acting schools, universitiesIndividual clients, actors, industry professionals

Acting Instructors primarily teach acting techniques in educational settings, focusing on foundational skills. Acting Coaches work closely with individual actors to refine performances and prepare for auditions or roles. While both roles require acting experience, instructors focus on teaching groups, whereas coaches provide personalized guidance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an acting instructor?

To thrive as an Acting Instructor, you need a strong background in acting techniques, theater arts education, and often a degree in drama or related field. Familiarity with stage equipment, video recording tools, and curriculum planning software is typically required, along with certifications in theater education or performance when applicable. Excellent communication, patience, creativity, and the ability to inspire and mentor students are standout soft skills. These skills ensure effective teaching, foster student growth, and contribute to a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

How does an acting instructor typically collaborate with other faculty and production staff?

Acting Instructors often work closely with other faculty members, such as voice, movement, and stagecraft instructors, to ensure a comprehensive learning experience for students. Collaboration with production staff is also common, especially during rehearsals and performances, to align acting techniques with technical elements like lighting, costumes, and set design. Regular meetings and joint workshops help synchronize curriculum goals and provide students with cohesive guidance throughout their training.
What are popular job titles related to Acting Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL? For Acting Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Acting Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Acting Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Acting Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Acting Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,804 per year, or $12.9 per hour.

Theatre Instructor

Bensenville Park

Bensenville, IL • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Under the direction of the Cultural & Fine Arts Supervisor, the Theatre Instructor plans, organizes, and teaches theatre classes, is responsible for creating class curriculum, demonstrates acting techniques, and assists with performances.
DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Maintain a safe, energetic, and motivational teaching atmosphere
  • Instruct ages 5 and up in a variety of acting techniques including vocal projection, improv, and character building
  • Create progressive lesson plans
  • Stay updated on theatre trends and games
  • Help plan and teach pieces for performances
  • Maintain open communication with supervisor, families, and participants
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor

  • 1-3 years of experience teaching children at beginning, intermediate, and advanced acting levels
  • Adequate knowledge of acting techniques, vocabulary, and directing
  • Ability to create lesson plans and curriculum
  • Comfortable curating age-appropriate scenes and lesson materials
  • Ability to motivate and energize students of all skill levels and ages
  • Background or degree in Theatre, Drama, or Performing Arts highly encouraged, but not required

JOB STATUS Part time DEPARTMENT Recreation FSLA STATUS Non-Exempt
SALARY $16.00-$18.00 per hour
HOURS 2-8 hours per week including evenings and weekends

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