Music Director –Hadestown: Teen Edition (Ages 13-19) - Raue Center School For The Arts

Organization: Raue Center School For The Arts (RCSA)

Program: Hadestown: Teen Edition Summer Production

Location: Raue Center For The Arts (Rehearsals & Performance) | 26 N. Williams St. | Crystal Lake

Position: Music Director

Stipend: $2000

Total Important Dates: May 26 – July 18, 2026

• Auditions: May 26 - 29

• Rehearsal Dates: June 1 – July 2 (Monday – Thursday)

• Daily Schedule: o 9:45 – 10 AM | Cast Arrival o 10 AM – 2:30 PM | Rehearsal o 2:30 – 2:45 | Release

• Tech Dates: July 5 – July 9

• Show Dates: o July 10, 11, 17, 18 @ 7 PM o July 11, 12, 18 @ 1 PM

Raue Center School For The Arts (RCSA) invites you to help shape the sound of the underworld this summer with Hadestown: Teen Edition. We are seeking a passionate, collaborative, and musically driven Music Director to guide a talented ensemble of teen performers (ages 13–19) through this powerful and haunting score. This is a unique opportunity to work on a rhythmically rich, vocally demanding piece that blends folk, jazz, and musical theatre into a deeply storytelling-driven experience. We’re looking for someone who can challenge and inspire young artists while creating a focused, supportive rehearsal environment.

Position Overview The Music Director will lead all vocal, accompaniment, and musical elements of the production, working closely with the Director and Choreographer to ensure a cohesive and compelling performance. This role requires a strong and consistent presence throughout the rehearsal process, helping students build vocal technique, confidence, and a deep connection to the music and storytelling. Music Director will also run the tracks for the performances and conduct the cast.

Key Responsibilities: Music Direction & Vocal Coaching

• Teach all vocal music, including solos, small groups, and ensemble numbers (electric keyboard is provided)

• Provide vocal coaching focused on healthy technique, blend, and musicality

• Help students connect emotionally and rhythmically to the score

• Adapt instruction to support a range of vocal abilities and experience levels Rehearsals & Collaboration

• Attend rehearsals consistently and contribute as a key member of the creative team • Collaborate closely with the Director and Choreographer to align artistic vision

• Mentor students ages 13 - 19 in vocal growth, confidence, and professionalism • Lead music rehearsals with clarity, structure, and intention • Encourage accountability, ensemble work, and artistic investment

• Assist in auditions by evaluating vocal ability and supporting casting decisions Performance Preparation

• Teach harmonies, timing, and stylistic elements unique to Hadestown

• Guide performers in storytelling through song, phrasing, and dynamics

• Support the transition from rehearsal room to technical rehearsals and performances

• Coordinate with sound and production staff of Raue Center For The Arts General Responsibilities

• Bring creativity, adaptability, and collaboration to each rehearsal day

• Support the integrity and vision of the production

• Participate in strike immediately following the final performance

• Help maintain a safe and organized rehearsal environment Qualifications

• Strong background in music direction, vocal instruction, and piano playing

• Experience with musical theatre and contemporary vocal styles

• Ability to teach harmony-driven ensemble music

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills

• Experience working with teen performers preferred but not required

• Passion for arts education and storytelling through music

How to Apply: Please contact and email the following to rcsaeducation@rauecenter.org:

Cover Letter (include the following): • Why do you enjoy working with young performers? • What would you bring to this production as Music Director? • How do you approach teaching complex vocal music?

Plus: • Professional theatrical/music resume • Any relevant video, audio, or portfolio materials (if available but not required)

Additional Information -Start Date: Based on the first production meeting (Summer 2026 timing; exact date TBD)

Submission of materials does not guarantee employment; however, applications may be kept on file for future opportunities

Salary: $2,000 Stipend