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Shenandoah Conservatory of Shenandoah University seeks an exceptional teacher, with a focus on Entertainment Industry Styles and Modern Dance, to join its dynamic performing arts faculty. This full time and career-contract track Assistant Professor position will begin in August of 2026. This position is located on our main campus in Winchester, VA. 

Responsibilities: The successful candidate will be a member of the Dance Division faculty, and will work collaboratively with both Dance and Musical Theatre programs and faculty in fulfilling the following responsibilities: teach classical and contemporary jazz and industry style techniques & musical theatre dance styles for dance, music theatre majors, and non-majors; teach modern/contemporary styles as needed; contribute to mainstage productions of the Dance Division as choreographer; and participate in Division, Conservatory and University activities, including advising, recruitment, and committee service. Additional teaching assignments for the position will be based on areas of expertise/interest.

• Teach a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester of undergraduate and/or specialized courses in Dance.
• Develop and update course curricula, including syllabi, lectures, and assignments.
• Advise and mentor students on academic and career paths.
• Engage in scholarly or creative activities, which may include research, publications, presentations, or artistic productions.
• Participate in departmental, college, and university service, such as committee work, program development, and student recruitment.

The Dance Division & The Musical Theatre Program: The Dance Division engages close to 80 dance majors and 100 musical theatre students in rigorous professional training that is equally grounded in ballet, modern dance and jazz training. Core training is complemented by an extensive composition sequence, three mainstage concerts per year in the 600-seat Ohrstrom- Bryant Theatre, and numerous opportunities for creative & performance work. Extensive outreach opportunities include international performance-and-study tours. The Dance Ensemble has been featured in concerts at the Kennedy Center, Strathmore Hall, and other professional venues in New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, DC.

Shenandoah Conservatory's BFA Musical Theatre degree is among the longest-established such programs in the country. With a continuing reputation for excellence in pre-professional training and a constant eye on the industry, the program provides highly individualized education in a rigorous, yet supportive environment. The school's geography allows for easy access to and regular interaction with theatre professionals from New York City as well as Washington D.C. Grounded in the foundations of musical theatre, the program places primary emphasis on contemporary trends and current musical styles, including pop/rock musicals and vocal technique, entrepreneurship, and digital media.

About the Shenandoah Conservatory and University: Shenandoah Conservatory was founded in 1875 and is located at the head of the historic Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, VA, 70 miles west of Washington DC. 

Over 650 students are enrolled in baccalaureate, masters and doctoral curricula in the areas of music, theater and dance, and are taught by a dynamic and diverse faculty of over 125, half of whom are full-time.

www.su.edu/conservatory Shenandoah University is a diverse institution of approximately 4,000 students enrolled in baccalaureate, masters and doctoral curricula in business, arts and sciences, health professions and performing arts. Shenandoah University is an independent, coeducational institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. www.su.edu

Shenandoah University is committed to enriching its educational experience and culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration, and staff. All candidates are strongly encouraged to include a statement in their cover letters addressing ways in which they may be able to contribute to that commitment.

Candidates will be expected to possess the following:

1. A national profile in dance performance with significant experience related to jazz and entertainment industry styles;
2. A significant portfolio of creative/scholarly work in choreography;
3. A terminal degree in Dance or Musical Theatre;
4. A record of successful teaching at the collegiate level (intensive Conservatory environment preferred); and,
5. A demonstrated ability to thrive within an intensive but collegial Conservatory environment.

Choreographic experience in a variety of settings (concert dance, musical theatre productions, commercial/industrial/video work, etc.) is highly desirable.

How to Apply:

The Complete application submissions will include a letter of intent, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a qualified candidate is selected.

**Note: A pre-employment background check will be required, and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire. 

**Authorized to work in the United States is a pre-condition of employment. At this time, Shenandoah University is not in a position to sponsor international visas.

Shenandoah University values individuals and communities' unique and diverse perspectives locally and globally. It seeks to foster mutual understanding in an inviting community where individuals are welcome and respected. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or on any other basis protected under applicable law.