Artistic Director
Responsibilities
The Artistic Director will oversee the performance of one or more theatrical plays within the organization’s annual production program, which is developed by the Program Director. Shows will address complex social issues and may include topics like bullying, gender inequality, peer pressure, trust, and more. Using humour and a safe environment, that includes parents / guardians in the audience, they will guide Theatre Performers in performing with children to help them increase their confidence and creativity. They will lead the Performance & Production team of that play, comprised of Theatre Performers, Script & Story Writers, Costume Designers, and others.
Essential Job Functions
Establish the production schedule for the play and ensure enough volunteers are available.
Support a recognizable artistic identity or brand for the organization through productions.
Lead Theatre Performers through rehearsals and additional training to build skills in acting, improvisation, theatrics production, interaction with children, ethics and teamwork.
Read and understand scripts, offer or direct cues, and lead the Performance & Production team to create memorable shows for the audience that they will enjoy.
Support Theatre Performers in interpreting the work of the Script Writer.
Provide direction to Theatre Performers on how to convey characters with special personality traits and emotions to connect with the audience and foster learnings within the story.
Incorporate humour into roles through speech, gesture, and body movements to entertain or inform the audience about the social issue(s) being portrayed in the play.
Provide feedback on the reactions of a character within a particular social situation.
Encourage audience participation for an optimal theatrical experience.
Ensure costumes are properly maintained and that the Costume Designer is aware of any deficiencies that need to be addressed.
Ensure all props and equipment are handled with care before, during and after performances.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
Demonstrated leadership skills with leading and coaching teams to successful outcomes, with a
Strong preference for theatre, music, dance, or related experience.
Creative or artistic skills in directing, producing, story / script writing, stage management, professional acting, choreography, stage set design, costume design, music, dancing, lighting, etc.
Previous experience teaching theatrical improvisation to others considered an asset.
Previous involvement with theatre productions to share stories and connect with audience members on an emotional level considered an asset.
Ability to collaborate with other team members to achieve desired outcomes that support the mission of the organization.
Strong problem-solving skills to improvise when technical challenges arise during shows.
Strong work ethic and passionate commitment to advancing the mission of the organization.
Willingness to teach new techniques related to theatre, performance, voice, and dance.
Strong communication skills to cultivate community and audience connections.
Friendly, professional demeanor and considered approachable by others they interact with.
Strong organizational and process-driven skills, with an excellent follow-through on actions.
Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.
Minimum Qualifications
Demonstrated work, school or volunteer experience or knowledge in theatrical or other artistic performances with audiences.
Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts.
Bringing a network of potential collaborators would be considered an asset.
Passionate interest in theatre and education of the fine arts in the Calgary community.
Legally entitled to volunteer in Canada, with the ability to meet volunteer screening requirements (e.g. criminal check, including a vulnerable sector verification).
Class 5 driver’s license considered an asset.
Experience working with non-profit organizations considered an asset.
Working Conditions
Currently virtual, but in the future, in-person opportunity that gives the opportunity to provide in-depth training to Theatre Performers over an 8-week period, followed by three months of performances on the weekends.
Working directly with members of the arts community, with the opportunity to meet new people and give back to the charitable sector.
As performance dates approach, your time commitment and availability may increase.