Teaching Artist (Part-Time) - Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Cultural Dances, Contemporary

Department: Community Engagement

Reports to: Director of Community Engagement

Salary: $50 per instructional hour, $25 per meeting hour

Classification: Part-time, Seasonal

Location: Washington, DC Metropolitan Area

Position Description

The Washington Ballet seeks to assemble a team of Teaching Artists for our school and community programs that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. TWB's programs impact students at every grade level and offers residencies in a variety of dance genres. We welcome candidates with a wide range of dance expertise and teaching experience. Ideal candidates will demonstrate a passion for dance education, youth empowerment, and possess professional dance and teaching experience. Experience creating inclusive classroom environments and teaching in a classroom setting is a plus. Bilingual artists and individuals from traditionally under‑represented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

General Responsibilities

• Bringing the joy and artistry of dance to our community.
• Building confidence in learners of all ages through the art of dance.
• Teaching Dance DC residencies.
• Partnering with classroom teachers to creating arts integration lesson plans.
• Assisting with the development of TWB's school programs curriculum.
• Teaching preshow workshops for student matinees.
• Teaching introductory dance workshops in the community.
• Facilitating demonstrations at Dance for All events.
• Assisting with Dance for All events.
• Representing The Washington Ballet in the community.
• Providing feedback to the Director of Community Engagement about school and community partners.
• Actively participate in creating a work culture that celebrates Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Belonging (DEIB).

Experience, Skills, and Knowledge

While we understand that no single candidate may possess every qualification listed below, the following are priorities.

• Minimum two years of teaching experience.
• Expert knowledge of at least one dance genre. Support the philosophy and mission of The Washington Ballet and The Washington School of Ballet.
• Able to create a positive and inclusive learning environment.
• Classroom management strategies.
• Lesson planning using an objective and outcomes-based approach.
• Choreography
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to get to schools and community partners independently and reliably.
• Must possess excellent organizational skills.
• Collaborate effectively with the community engagement team.
• Willingness to learn new things and eagerness to acquire new skills.
• Maintain positive and professional decorum in relations with others. Must be able to transport self and teaching materials to class locations.
• Demonstrate and maintain a high level of technical proficiency and physical ability in your respective dance genre.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Washington Ballet is dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment in all aspects of its work, from artistic performances and ballet education to community engagement and workplace culture. We prioritize presenting artists and perspectives that reflect the dynamism of DC. Through our community partnerships and campus locations, we intentionally bring opportunities to communities throughout the DMV, ensuring fairness in hiring and employment practices.

Benefits

• Sick leave
• Free adult ballet classes
• Access to discounted tickets to performances

Application Instructions

Please upload and submit your resume and cover letter. We encourage all interested applicants to apply even if they do not feel they meet 100% of the qualifications. We are dedicated to considering a wide array of candidates including those with non‑traditional background and experience in the performing arts. Please use your cover letter to elaborate on what you hope to bring to this role and how your prior experience has prepared you for this opportunity.

About The Washington Ballet

Celebrating its 80th year as an organization, The Washington Ballet grew out of the success of The Washington School of Ballet, founded and directed for years by legendary dance pioneer Mary Day. Today, The Washington Ballet's mission is threefold: To bring the joy and artistry of dance to the nation's capital and the world's stage through the professional presentation of the best in classic and contemporary ballet; To provide the highest caliber of dance training through a preeminent school of ballet; and To serve and involve the entire community through extensive dance education and community engagement programs.