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 2026/27 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 2026-27 season is $4,120.
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 2026/27 season are below:
Topdog/Underdog – Downstairs Theatre
By Suzan-Lori Parks
Directed by Kenny Leon
First Rehearsal – Monday, August 17, 2026
Tech Begins – Saturday, September 12, 2026
First Preview – Thursday, September 17, 2026
Opening – Sunday, September 27, 2026
Adirondack Chair Circle – Ensemble Theatre
By Stephanie Allison Walker
Directed by Pam MacKinnon
First Rehearsal – Monday, September 21, 2026
Tech Begins – Saturday, October 17, 2026
First Preview – Thursday, October 22, 2026
Opening – Sunday, November 1, 2026
The Comeuppance – Downstairs Theatre
By Branden Jacobs-Jenkins
Directed by ensemble member Tina Landau
First Rehearsal – Monday, January 4, 2027
Tech Begins – Saturday, January 30, 2027
First Preview – Thursday, February 4, 2027
Opening – Saturday, February 13, 2027
Ellen B. – Ensemble Theatre
By Marius von Mayenburg
Translated into English by Daniel Brunet
Directed by Whitney White
First Rehearsal – Monday, March 1, 2027
Tech Begins – Saturday, March 27, 2027
First Preview – Thursday, April 1, 2027
Opening – Sunday, April 11, 2027
The Night Fawn – Downstairs Theatre
By Adam Rapp
Directed by ensemble member Terry Kinney
First Rehearsal – Monday, April 26, 2027
Tech Begins – Saturday, May 22, 2027
First Preview – Thursday, May 27, 2027
Opening – Sunday, June 6, 2027
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.