Theater and Drama Jobs at Summer Camps
Theater and drama jobs at summer camps are some of the most creative and dynamic performing arts roles in the camp world. From traditional sleepaway camps mounting cabarets and short plays to specialty performing arts residential camps producing full musicals, theater and drama instructors lead some of the most magical programs of every summer at camp.
As a theater and drama instructor at an overnight camp, you’ll direct shows, teach acting and improv, coach singing and movement, run rehearsals, and partner with music, dance, and tech staff on integrated productions. You’ll work across age groups and skill levels, from first-time performers to serious teen actors. Many co-ed residential camps run robust theater programs that mount multiple shows per session, giving multi-discipline instructors a packed and creative summer.
What does a theater and drama instructor at summer camp do?You’ll direct shows, teach acting and improv, run rehearsals, and partner with music and dance staff. Most sleepaway camps with theater programs mount multiple productions throughout the summer camp season.
What background works best for these jobs at sleepaway camps?Theater training, directing or acting experience, and prior teaching with kids are ideal. Theater majors, working actors and directors, and educators all fit naturally at residential camps with serious drama programs.
Do summer camps mount full musicals?Many do — especially specialty performing arts camps. Traditional co-ed sleepaway camps may run cabarets, scene work, or shorter revues. Show scope is a great topic for your interview at the residential camp.
What does the pay look like for theater and drama jobs at summer camps?Pay is competitive and commensurate with experience and program scope. Overnight camps include room, board, and laundry alongside salary, which adds meaningful value to the overall summer camp package beyond the base figure.
Can international theater pros work at summer camps?Yes — many residential camps hire international theater instructors through J-1 programs like Camp America, CCUSA, and Camp Leaders. International theater artists work at sleepaway camps each summer.
Browse Summer Camp Theater/Drama Jobs for 2026
| Job Type | Setting |
|---|
| Full-Time Seasonal | Overnight Camp |
Start Date: June 1, 2026
End Date: August 31, 2026
Our extensive activity program at Birchmont is run by an incredible team of coaches, athletes, and artists. Depending on the area, our specialists will either run a program on their own or as part of a team of instructors – helping the campers to learn new skills, have fun and develop their confidence and ability in particular areas. Our specialists also play an important role with their assigned group, assisting as general counselors when not running their own activity area. This role is suited to someone with expertise or experience in a particular activity – previous coaching or teaching experience is preferred, but our Area Heads and Athletic Director are on hand to ‘teach the teachers’, and help talented athletes and specialists develop their own delivery style – so enthusiastic amateurs are welcome also! Current specialty areas which we are recruiting for include: Archery, Arts and Crafts, Baseball/Softball, Basketball, Fitness/Personal Training, Mountain Biking, Games (Physical Education), Performing Arts & Music, High Ropes, Horseback Riding, Tennis, and Soccer. Our Activity Specialists typically will spend about half their day delivering their activity area, and the other half of the day acting as General Counselors, so they get to have the full camp experience, while honing and sharing their skills in a particular program area. These roles are suited to current college students or graduates with a passion for their chosen activity.
