Notice of Artistic Director Position

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Notice of Artistic Director Position 

Blue Water Theatre Company (BWTC), a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, is seeking qualified applicants for the full-time position of Artistic Director. 

Our Mission:  Blue Water Theatre Company elevates youth through theatre arts education.

Our Vision: Blue Water Theatre Company is a place where youth discover their authentic voice through innovative, collaborative theater experiences. Guided by our core values, Blue Water Theatre creates safe spaces for them to take risks, be bold, and challenge the world around them.

Core Values:

Education

Our aim is to provide a journey of discovery and growth. Here, learning comes to life through an immersive, embodied experience. Every script, role, class, and production holds a new lesson. Together, we’ll introduce, process, and practice new skills and ideas.

Teamwork

Cast and crew alike collaborate to create theatre magic. This requires the unique perspective that each of us brings to the table. We believe that working together, listening to each other, and learning in tandem are the driving forces behind our collective success.

Equity

We are dedicated to providing every child with equal access and opportunities within our creative space. Our art represents a rich tapestry of backgrounds, and we’re committed to eliminating barriers so that everyone may partake in it.

Belonging

Everyone has a place in our troupe. We strive to make every artist feel valued, supported, and accepted as their authentic self. Whether you're center stage or behind the scenes, you're an integral part of our community.

Empowerment

Each person is encouraged to pursue their individual strengths and interests. Our theatre is a platform for growth where everyone can find their confidence knowing their voice matters and that they are supported in pursuit of their goals.

Risk Taking

In this space, you’re free to dive in, try new things, and explore budding interests. Maybe you’ve always done “this” and now you want to try a little of “that”– we encourage it. Unforgettable moments derive from pushing boundaries and taking the leap.

Curiosity

Ask questions and then ask a few more. We believe discovery is a key source of progress and fun. As we learn and grow, we’ll keep searching for more ideas to work through and more ways to improve. Wonder abounds!

OVERVIEW OF ORGANIZATION 

BWTC is a theatre company that prioritizes children's experiences, crafting exceptional theatre productions within a safe, inclusive, and responsive community. Over its initial 17 years, BWTC has engaged and inspired some 3,000 young people aged 8 to 18, involving them in over 120 fully staged musicals and plays in theaters across Twin Cities, including our historic venue in downtown Wayzata. Annually, BWTC guides 300 youth through 8 or more fully staged shows, each featuring a run of 4 to 12 performances. Young participants contribute both on stage as cast members and behind the scenes as part of the design team or tech/running crew. Through these experiences, our budding artists evolve into confident, inquisitive, and self-assured individuals.

RESPONSIBILITIES of Artistic Director of BWTC 

● Oversees the development and execution of BWTC's artistic vision and direction.

● Reports directly to the BWTC Board of Directors.

● Develops, implements, and assesses artistic programming, including production seasons, class offerings, and special programs in collaboration with the Board of Directors and Managing Director.

● Directs productions as outlined by the Board of Directors.

● Recruits, hires, manages, and evaluates artistic and technical personnel, including directors, designers, and stage managers.

● Collaborates with the Managing Director and Board of Directors to establish the annual program budget.

● Nurtures stakeholder relations and serves as a spokesperson for BWTC's artistic mission through speaking engagements, public appearances, and, when requested, at fundraising events.

● Cultivates positive relationships with other cultural organizations through active participation in meetings and collaborative events.

● Provides regular updates on artistic activities to the Board of Directors.

● Develops a "tech training" program for youth to support productions.

QUALIFICATIONS 

● Bachelor’s degree required 

● Director/educator experience in non-profit arts or education-related setting 

● Program and performance planning experience 

● Budget and financial management experience 

● Excellent communication, writing, interpersonal, and organizational skills 

● Proven management experience, with the ability to empower staff and youth 

● Passion and extensive knowledge of musical theater for youth 

● Demonstrates commitment to anti-racism and has experience advocating for diversity, equity, access, and inclusion  

● Knowledge of MS Office, Google Suite, QuickBooks, and/or equivalent software applications 

COMPENSATION

The salary range for the position of Artistic Director for our community youth theater program is between $40,000 and $50,000 annually.

APPLICATION MUST INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING 

● Letter of Application 

● Career Resume 

● Three professional references with complete contact information 

SEND COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: 

Jeffrey Prottas, Search Chair

Email: [email protected] 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 

May 6, 2024

Blue Water Theatre Company is under no obligation to hire anyone as a part of this search process and may decline to offer the position to any candidate who applies. Application for the position does not guarantee an offer of employment.  

Blue Water Theatre Company does not and shall not discriminate based on race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or military status.