The Contemporary American Theater Festival at Shepherd University is welcoming applications for the position of Technical Director and Staff Carpenters. CATF, a LORT D summer festival and leading producer of contemporary plays, is dedicated to telling diverse stories and developing new American theatre. The festival premieres or produces six plays per season in three venues in rotating rep. We are committed to supporting the unique needs of new work while fostering an environment of fun and company community. Located an hour from DC, CATF makes its home in one of America’s coolest small towns, Shepherdstown, WV.
Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, and any portfolio images as PDFs to CATFJobs@gmail.com – Electronic submissions only please. CATF is committed to fostering a diverse workplace. People from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.
Technical Director Applicants:
CATF’s Technical Direction Department consists of one Festival TD and three venue TD’s who are responsible for realizing the scenic designs in their assigned space. Technical Directors will work closely with Festival Management to set the budget for their venues and with the scene shop to schedule, manage, and participate (as able) in the construction of their productions. CATF’s designs are often realistic and in close proximity to audiences, so attention to detail is essential. Applicants must have knowledge of modern drafting techniques and multiple styles of set construction (carpentry, welding, etc). Experience or education in repertory design is an advantage, but not required if the applicant can clearly demonstrate the ability to think proactively about creative, efficient rep solutions. The festival’s dedication to incubating new work can mean script and design adjustments throughout the build and tech process. CATF values those who are able to collaborate toward practical and artistically-sound solutions in a timesensitive environment. Flexibility and positivity are key.
Position is seasonal, from mid-May to July 8th. All staff are provided free air conditioned housing within walking distance of the theaters and workspaces (also air conditioned,) 1-2 meals per day during tech, and free use of University gym, pool, and laundry facilities.
Carpentry Applicants:
CATF’s Carpentry team consists of a lead carpenter, two staff carpenters, and three carpentry interns. Staff carpenters work under the supervision of the lead carpenter and directly with festival and venue TDs to execute the festival’s six productions and then will serve as deck chief in one of our venues during the run. Applicants must be able to lift and carry 75lbs, be comfortable with working on ladders, lifts, and/or catwalks up to 40’ high, enjoy working on teams, and be comfortable assisting with the supervision of interns. Flexibility, positivity, and the ability to take direction well and work independently are essential to success at CATF. Ideal applicants will have previous repertory and/or professional experience, as well as a working knowledge of fine carpentry techniques and/or MIG welding experience.
Position is seasonal, from late-May to August 3rd. All staff are provided free air conditioned housing within walking distance of the theaters and workspaces (also air conditioned,) 1-2 meals per day during tech, and free use of University gym, pool, and laundry facilities.