Steppenwolf is always interested in hearing from early career directors who are interested in assistant directing opportunities. We hire assistant directors for our productions on a rolling basis. As such, some productions might already be staffed. When all positions have been filled, the application form will close.
THE APPLICATION FORM FOR THE 2025-26 SEASON IS CURRENTLY OPEN.
Directors at Steppenwolf work with Assistant Directors in a wide variety of ways, dependent on the demands of specific productions, a director’s practice and the organic relationships that develop in process. Generally, an assistant’s work begins with first rehearsal. They are present full time in rehearsal and tech, and attend most previews prior to opening night. Following opening, Assistant Directors are often invited to participate in understudy rehearsals and various other events, which are compensated separately. The per-production rate for assistant directors in the 2025-26 season is $4,000.
Please note: local Chicago applicants are prioritized. While non-local candidates are welcome to apply, those who have been based in Chicago for at least 12 months are considered first.
To be considered, please complete the form below, which will ask about your interest and request that you submit a resume and an optional letter of interest.
key production dates for the 2025-26 season are below:
Mr. Wolf – Downstairs Theatre
By ensemble member Rajiv Joseph
Directed by ensemble member K. Todd Freeman
- Note, this production has already been staffed, and applications are not being accepted.
Amadeus – Ensemble Theatre
By Peter Shaffer
Directed by Robert Falls
First Rehearsal – Monday, October 6, 2025
Tech Begins – Saturday, November 1, 2025
First Preview – Thursday, November 6, 2025
Opening – Sunday, November 16, 2025
- Note, this production has already been staffed, and applications are not being accepted.
The Dance of Death – Downstairs Theatre
By August Strindberg, Adapted by Connor McPherson
Directed by ensemble member Yasen Peyankov
First Rehearsal – Monday, December 29, 2025
Tech Begins – Saturday, January 24, 2026
First Preview – Thursday, January 29, 2026
Opening – Saturday, February 7, 2026
- Note, this production has already been staffed, and applications are not being accepted.
Windfall – Ensemble Theatre
By ensemble member Tarell Alvin McCraney
Directed by Awoye Timpo
First Rehearsal – Monday, March 9, 2026
Tech Begins – Saturday, April 4, 2026
First Preview – Thursday, April 9, 2026
Opening – Sunday, April 19, 2026
Catch as Catch Can – Downstairs Theatre
By Mia Chung
Directed by ensemble member Amy Morton
First Rehearsal – Thursday, April 30, 2026
Tech Begins – Saturday, May 30, 2026
First Preview – Thursday, June 4, 2026
Opening – Sunday, June 14, 2026
CONTACT US
After submitting your application, there is no need to follow up; we will be in touch as necessary as the hiring process moves along. Specific questions about assistant directing opportunities can be sent to Steppenwolf’s Creative Producer Patrick Zakem at pzakem@steppenwolf.org.