What Are Drama Jobs at Summer Camp?
Drama Jobs at Summer Camps in the USA
Drama jobs at summer camps are a perfect fit for theater pros, MFA students, and working actors who want to spend the summer directing kids in unforgettable productions. From traditional sleepaway camps that mount multiple musicals each summer to specialty performing arts residential camps running serious conservatory-style training, drama instructors find inspiring teaching environments across the country.
As a drama instructor at an overnight camp, you’ll direct shows, teach acting technique, lead improv, design rehearsal schedules, and partner with music, dance, and costume teams to mount productions. You’ll work across age groups, from first-time performers to serious teen actors, building confidence and craft. Many co-ed residential camps run end-of-session showcases and full-length musicals, giving directors significant creative latitude across the summer camp calendar.
You’ll direct productions, teach acting and improv, run rehearsals, and partner with music and dance staff to mount shows. Most overnight camps stage multiple productions throughout the summer camp season.
Theater training, directing or acting experience, and prior teaching with kids and teens are ideal. Theater majors, working actors, directors, and educators all fit naturally at residential camps with strong drama programs.
Many do — especially specialty performing arts camps that stage full musicals each session. Traditional co-ed sleepaway camps may run cabarets, scene work, and shorter musical revues. Show scope is a great topic for your interview.
Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience and the scope of the program. Sleepaway camps include room, board, and laundry alongside salary, which makes the overall summer camp package noticeably more valuable than the base figure.
Yes — many residential camps hire international drama instructors through J-1 programs like Camp America, CCUSA, and Camp Leaders. International theater artists regularly direct, teach, and choreograph at sleepaway camps each summer.
