Be a teaching artist!
teaching artists make an impact!
If you love working with, leading, and inspiring kids, becoming a Teaching Artist at OCT is a great way to make a difference and shape the lives of young people through the arts!
We are currently growing our roster of Teaching Artists to support our organization’s expansion into new locations and new programming for kids. Join us as we teach the next generation of children and teens to be creative, collaborative, and confident!
Top: Teaching Artist Molly Gilbert leads a class in vocal warm-ups.
Above: Teaching Artist Rae Davis encourages a group of students before a final class showcase.
Photos by North Light Photo.
What do teaching artists do?
Teaching Artists lead OCT classes, camps, workshops, residencies, and other youth programs, including our acclaimed Acting Academy programs and school/community partnership programs. Using positive, developmentally appropriate classroom-management practices, Teaching Artists facilitate learning, safety, and belonging in OCT spaces. Though a background in teaching theatre is not required, Teaching Artists use theatre practices to build artistic skills alongside collaboration, communication, curiosity, creative problem-solving, and confidence.
What makes OCT different?
At OCT, we believe that theatre skills = life skills. But this core belief has evolved and grown: we know that young people learn most deeply when they are active participants in making meaning, shaping stories, and creating work of their own. Our education programming is increasingly centered on a literacy-rich, generative approach. Students are not only performers; they are readers, interpreters, writers, adapters, improvisers, collaborators, and creators. Teaching Artists at OCT are responsible for guiding young people through this creative journey, encouraging kids to engage in their arts education in a new way.
Teach With Us!
We are currently growing our roster of Teaching Artists to support our organization’s expansion into new locations and new programming for kids, and looking for passionate arts educators to join our team! View the full job description here.
How to Apply
Please send the following to Education Director, Matthew Zrebski at matthew.zrebski@octc.org with the subject line “OCT Teaching Artist – [Your Name].”
A current résumé highlighting relevant artistic, teaching, youth-development, education, or community experience.
A brief introduction responding to the three prompts below. You may respond in writing, by audio, or by video - use the format that allows you to communicate most clearly and comfortably.
Optional: a sample lesson plan, curriculum excerpt, teaching portfolio, or link to artistic work. These materials are welcome but are not required.
Application Prompts
Tell us about your work as an artist and your experience working with young people. What experiences have most prepared you to be a Teaching Artist?
Describe a theatre-learning experience you would be excited to lead. How might students participate as makers of the work - not only as performers?
What would you most like to teach? Please include the age groups, theatre disciplines, general days/times, and geographic areas for which you are most available. If you can work in Southwest Washington, please tell us which communities are realistic for you.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed as teaching opportunities become available. Written materials may be combined into a single PDF. Audio/video may be attached or shared through an accessible link.