The La Jolla Playhouse, renowned for its innovative and groundbreaking productions, offers a diverse range of employment opportunities for passionate individuals seeking a fulfilling career in the performing arts. With a commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement, the Playhouse provides a dynamic and stimulating work environment for professionals across various disciplines.

Types of Jobs Available
The La Jolla Playhouse employs a multifaceted team of professionals, including:
- Artistic Staff: Directors, playwrights, choreographers, designers, and other creative visionaries responsible for the artistic direction of productions.
- Production Staff: Stage managers, production assistants, and technicians who manage the daily operations of productions and ensure their seamless execution.
- Administrative Staff: Office administrators, marketing professionals, fundraisers, and other individuals who provide essential support and management functions.
- Education and Outreach Staff: Educators, artists-in-residence, and community engagement specialists who connect the Playhouse with audiences through educational programs and outreach initiatives.
Qualifications and Experience
The specific qualifications and experience required for each position at the La Jolla Playhouse vary depending on the role. However, some common requirements include:
- Artistic Staff: Extensive experience in theater, directing, writing, choreography, or design, with a strong portfolio of successful productions.
- Production Staff: Technical proficiency in stagecraft, lighting, sound, or other production areas, with experience in managing complex theatrical productions.
- Administrative Staff: Administrative and organizational skills, with experience in office management, marketing, fundraising, or related fields.
- Education and Outreach Staff: Expertise in arts education, community engagement, or related areas, with a passion for connecting audiences with the performing arts.
Benefits
Working at the La Jolla Playhouse offers a multitude of benefits, including:
- Competitive Salaries and Benefits: The Playhouse provides competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement savings plans.
- Creative and Dynamic Environment: Employees have the opportunity to collaborate with renowned artists, explore innovative ideas, and contribute to the creation of world-class productions.
- Professional Development Opportunities: The Playhouse offers a variety of professional development opportunities, such as workshops, conferences, and guest lectures, to enhance employees’ skills and knowledge.
- Community Involvement: Employees play an active role in engaging with the community through outreach programs, educational initiatives, and special events.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply for job openings at the La Jolla Playhouse through the Playhouse’s website: https://www.lajollaplayhouse.org/jobs/. The application process typically involves submitting a cover letter, resume, and any additional materials specified in the job listing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To increase your chances of success in the La Jolla Playhouse’s hiring process, avoid the following common mistakes:
- Ignoring the Job Description: Carefully review the job description and ensure that your cover letter and resume highlight your qualifications and experience that align with the specific requirements of the position.
- Submitting a Generic Application: Tailor your application materials to the specific job you are applying for, addressing the key qualifications and responsibilities outlined in the job listing.
- Providing Insufficient Information: Include all relevant information in your cover letter and resume, providing specific examples of your accomplishments and contributions in previous roles.
- Overlooking Spelling and Grammar: Proofread your application materials carefully to ensure that they are error-free and well-written.
Why La Jolla Playhouse Jobs Matter
A career at the La Jolla Playhouse offers individuals the opportunity to:
- Contribute to Artistic Excellence: Help create and present groundbreaking productions that entertain, provoke thought, and inspire audiences.
- Foster Community Engagement: Connect with audiences through educational programs and outreach initiatives, fostering a vibrant and engaged arts community.
- Pursue Creative Fulfillment: Work in a supportive and collaborative environment that nurtures artistic growth and experimentation.
- Make a Positive Impact: Use the power of theater to promote dialogue, ignite creativity, and create positive change in the world.
Engaging Customers
The La Jolla Playhouse values input from its customers and actively seeks ways to engage with them. Here are a few questions to consider when evaluating job opportunities at the Playhouse:
- What are your career goals and aspirations?
- How does this position align with your interests and qualifications?
- What are your expectations for a work environment and professional development opportunities?
- How can you contribute to the mission and vision of the La Jolla Playhouse?
Data on La Jolla Playhouse’s Impact
The La Jolla Playhouse has a significant impact on the San Diego arts community and beyond:
- Annual Economic Impact: The Playhouse contributes over $30 million to the local economy annually, supporting businesses and jobs in the region.
- Audience Reach: Over 100,000 people attend La Jolla Playhouse productions each year, making it one of the most popular theaters in San Diego.
- Educational Programs: The Playhouse’s educational programs reach over 20,000 students annually, inspiring the next generation of theatergoers and artists.
- National Recognition: The Playhouse has received numerous prestigious awards, including the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theater.
Table 1: Types of Jobs Available at La Jolla Playhouse
Job Type | Description |
---|---|
Director | Responsible for the artistic vision and execution of theatrical productions |
Playwright | Creates original scripts and adaptations for the stage |
Choreographer | Develops and oversees dance sequences for productions |
Set Designer | Designs and creates the physical environment for the productions |
Costume Designer | Designs and creates costumes for the actors |
Lighting Designer | Controls the lighting for the productions |
Sound Designer | Controls the sound effects and music for the productions |
Stage Manager | Responsible for the daily management and coordination of productions |
Production Assistant | Provides support to the stage manager and other production staff |
Office Administrator | Handles administrative tasks such as scheduling, correspondence, and budget management |
Marketing Specialist | Develops and implements marketing and communications strategies |
Fundraiser | Raises funds to support the Playhouse’s mission and programs |
Table 2: Qualifications and Experience for Artistic Staff
Job Type | Qualifications | Experience |
---|---|---|
Director | MFA in Directing or equivalent experience | Extensive directing experience in professional theater |
Playwright | MFA in Playwriting or equivalent experience | Produced plays in major theaters or won prestigious playwriting awards |
Choreographer | MFA in Dance or equivalent experience | Created original dance works performed by professional dance companies |
Set Designer | MFA in Scenic Design or equivalent experience | Designed sets for major theater productions |
Costume Designer | MFA in Costume Design or equivalent experience | Created costumes for major theater productions |
Lighting Designer | MFA in Lighting Design or equivalent experience | Designed lighting for major theater productions |
Sound Designer | MFA in Sound Design or equivalent experience | Designed sound for major theater productions |
Table 3: Benefits of Working at La Jolla Playhouse
Benefit | Value |
---|---|
Competitive Salaries | Based on experience and qualifications |
Health Insurance | Medical, dental, and vision coverage |
Paid Time Off | 2 weeks paid vacation and 1 week paid sick leave |
Retirement Savings Plan | 403(b) with employer matching |
Professional Development Opportunities | Workshops, conferences, and guest lectures |
Community Involvement | Opportunities to engage with audiences through outreach programs and special events |
Table 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Application Process
Mistake | How to Avoid |
---|---|
Ignoring the Job Description | Read the job description carefully and highlight your qualifications that align with the requirements. |
Submitting a Generic Application | Tailor your cover letter and resume to the specific job you are applying for. |
Providing Insufficient Information | Include all relevant information in your application materials, including specific examples of your accomplishments. |
Overlooking Spelling and Grammar | Proofread your application materials carefully for any errors. |