The Artistic Director of Theater Schmeater is responsible for the artistic decisions of a Seattle-based producing arts organization. As a 49-seat volunteer-driven fringe theater with a rich 17 year history, Theater Schmeater seeks a community leader to execute a diverse and encompassing artistic vision. The Schmee produces 7 shows a year. Together with a passionate group of artists and administrators, the Artistic Director will coordinate the theatrical season as well as facilitate programming activities to support the management of the organization. Theater Schmeater prides itself on bringing together a community that champions open, vital and thoughtful entertainment.

The Artistic Director will work in close collaboration with the Managing Director to run the theater, coordinate the staff and promote the vision of the theater. The AD will manage artistic staff while the MD oversees operational staff. Both positions will report directly to the Board of Directors.

AD Responsibilities:

• Evaluate, select and develop the main stage production season to be submitted to the Board of Directors for review
• Hire, supervise and evaluate resident and guest artistic staff including directors, designers, stage managers, production managers and performers.
• Assist the Managing Director to hire and evaluate key operational personnel
• Participate in auditions for performers
• Attend and provide guidance for key rehearsals, production meetings, and preview performances
• Be available to direct at least one production per season
• Secure the rights to scripts and music as needed
• Conduct script readings for potential productions in future seasons
• Report to the Board of Directors at all monthly General Meetings
• Facilitate regular staff meetings with the Managing Director
• Work with the Managing Director to develop, implement, and evaluate networking and fundraising activities and events for the year
• Work with the Managing Director to develop annual program and production budgets
• Participate in the general maintenance and cleaning of the theater facility
• Provide regular office hours at the theater
• Develop, implement and evaluate the three-year strategic plan for the theater
• Review the medium and design of marketing materials
• Articulate the organization's artistic vision at speaking engagements, fundraising events, public meetings and social appearances
• Foster good relationships with other cultural organizations by attending productions and participating in meetings and promotional activities

Desired qualities, skills and experience

• A proven track record for promoting and developing plays
• A wide-ranging network of contacts in the theater community
• The skill to provide artistic and managerial leadership
• The ability to inspire others
• The willingness to work as part of a team
• Experience working at a senior level within a theater company
• A responsible, entrepreneurial approach to producing plays
• The willingness and ability to work in partnership with the Managing Director and Board of Directors
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• A commitment to broaden the diversity and improve access to the theater by all audiences
• Working knowledge of the current theater scene and productions
• Experience in negotiating and acquiring rights to scripts
• Knowledge of arts grants and fundraising
• Must love the Twilight Zones

Interested candidates should provide a resume, three references, and relevant reviews or artistic samples to:

Position open until filled.