Programming Lead, Actor Interpreter

Continue to perform as an Actor Interpreter while taking on additional project management responsibilities within the department and division.  Oversee assigned daytime programs/projects: responsibilities including, but not limited to, directing and/or facilitating staff directors, coordinating rehearsals, conducting training, coordinating logistics and production support functions, etc.  Work with the Leadership team of the Museum Theater Department to develop and implement program plans.

Essential Functions:

• Continue to work as an Actor Interpreter:
  • Prepare, rehearse, and perform assigned roles reliably, consistently, and skillfully, with historical and artistic integrity
  • Portray historical figures in scripted scenes, interpretations, and impromptu interactions with other characters and guests in a variety of formal and informal settings
  • Regularly and actively engage with guests at their own level, maintaining historical personae as appropriate, and make subject matter relevant
  • Depict how assigned characters participated as a member of the Williamsburg community in the 18^th century, and adhere to high standards of historical integrity and stewardship
  • Create and present pro-active, thematic interpretations in character that are rooted in historical research and relevant to a modern, diverse audience

• Direct and/or Program Manage assigned programs. This includes coordinating all aspects of the program and communicating proactively with department leadership throughout the process
• Serve as a resource for other interpreters. Assist with staff training and development, and assist others with development of new programs
• Foster productive communication in every direction by actively engaging in the exchange of information and encouraging this activity in others.
• Work collaboratively with department leadership and others across the Foundation to create and implement exceptional guest experiences and achieve Colonial Williamsburg and department goals and objectives. Contribute ideas for programming that fit the goals and vision of the department.
• Actively pursue additional projects, skills, and responsibilities that promote a healthy ensemble and working environment, and/or add value to programmatic and mission objectives
• Perform with consistency, positivity, flexibility, and resiliency in a changing work environment.

Supervision to be Exercised:

Direct:  None   

Indirect:  The Lead will indirectly supervise staff involved in programming or assignments that are under the Lead’s oversight while staff are rehearsing or performing that programming.  The Lead will give directions and notes, and make decisions (in the absence of a supervisor) if issues arise with staff or guests, following established procedures.  The Lead will not deliver any corrective action.  The Lead will consult with the Artistic Director and Supervisor regarding expectations for staff.  

Required and Preferred Education and Experience: 

• 3 - 5 years as a full-time Actor Interpreter at Colonial Williamsburg. Demonstrated effective leadership in the department (may include directing, conducting training, project leadership, formal mentorship, etc.) 

Preferred: 

• Theatrical Directing and/or Stage Management experience.
• Program creation and development experience.

Qualifications: (List minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job successfully.)  

• Creative, detail oriented, inspiring, and motivated
• Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ongoing contribution to a positive and healthy ensemble
• Demonstrated thorough knowledge and understanding of time period, place, and people being portrayed
• Demonstrated willingness and ability to take on additional responsibilities and remain flexible about changing priorities
• Demontstrated reliability and consistency
• Demonstrated ability to work independently to achieve goals that align with the mission of the Foundation and department objectives
• Demonstrated ability to communicate positively and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Key project management skills, including collaboration, critical and strategic thinking, organization, planning, resource management, ability to identify problems and solutions, and to develop, research, plan, organize, implement, and complete projects
• Awareness and understanding of contemporary issues and trends in modern American society, and of practices and trends in public history and theatre
• Ability to solicit feedback, facilitate teamwork, practice open two-way communication, and work effectively as a team member with all staff at different levels of the division and Foundation
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays