CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES

Touchstone Theatre develops, produces and presents professional theatrical productions. We explore the contemporary Canadian play through content and form, and stimulate public interest in Canadian cultural perspectives.  We incubate and nurture new playwrights. We bring passionate and discerning audiences into the theatre. We strive for innovation, engagement, collaboration, and inspiration.

For over 45 years Touchstone has been a mainstay of theatrical innovation and excellence on Canada’s West Coast. The company’s all-Canadian mandate has helped launch and develop some of the country’s most important theatre makers. Through progressive artistic leadership Touchstone has explored a wide variety of styles while always staying true to the exploratory and celebratory spirit of the company. This has resulted in a sustained reputation for excellence and earned the respect of audiences, critics, and colleagues.

Our mandate is to present the Canadian voice. This voice is in constant flux and we strive to embrace the change. We are listening intently to the call from marginalized and under-represented community members in Vancouver and are responding by creating work that reflects the pluralism that is the country we live and create in.

ABOUT THE TEAM

The Artistic Director works in partnership with the General Manager. Both positions report to the Board of Directors. This leadership team is responsible for delivering innovative, high quality Canadian theatre programming, including curating the seasons, marketing productions, casting and directing, and optimizing financial sustainability. The leadership team is committed to building a workplace culture of inclusion and to modeling equity in action.

ABOUT THIS ROLE

The Artistic Director is responsible for the artistic vision and programme of the company.  Duties include:

• Establishes and develops the creative vision of Touchstone with a forward-looking focus
• Plans each season (currently 3-4 productions) which may include co-productions, partnerships, and new play/musical theatre development initiatives
• Directs some or all of the theatre’s programme, determined by artistic partnerships or mentorships established for specific productions
• Casts and/or selects all artistic production personnel for the productions
• Prepares written and verbal materials describing the theatre’s artistic vision and content
• Represents the theatre, its artistic vision, and its cultural priorities in local, provincial, and national forums
• Helps negotiate and secure collaborative artistic partnerships for the theatre
• Supports audience outreach activities related to the theatre’s production
• Supervises junior staff in artistic support activities
• Directs or facilitates the company’s annual Lawyer show our signature fundraiser.
• Is responsible for the overall quality of the product presented to the public
• Works in consultation with the General Manager.

The Artistic Director, General Manager and Board of Directors, share stewardship of the theatre’s administration. As a member of the leadership team, the Artistic Director

• with the General Manager sets and manages an annual budget and plan, with appropriate reporting to the Board
• writes and supports applications for municipal, provincial and federal grants
• ensures compliance with the Canadian Theatre Agreement and other relevant professional associations
• supports the negotiation and execution of presentations, co-productions, and venue agreements
• hires and manages contractors, including but not limited to actors, designers, production personnel, playwrights, and directors
• supports the supervision of all part-time, full-time, and seasonal employees and interns
• Shares in the co-operative management of the company’s co-located administrative and rehearsal facility.
• actively participates in strategic planning for the organization
• strives to protect and build the reputation of the organization, serving as spokesperson as mandated

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience
• 5+ years of directing plays or productions, or equivalent
• Knowledge of past, current and emerging Canadian playwrights
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills
• Knowledge of the Canadian Theatre Agreement
• Knowledge of inclusive practices in hiring and leading employees and volunteers
• Be a creative and collaborative problem solver
• Foster connection by building trusting relationships
• An interest in innovation and achieving great results
• Communicate with kindness and respect
• Understand and promote equitable hiring and promotion practices

Workplace arrangements

While most of the work will be performed onsite, some duties may be performed remotely. While the position is considered full-time, Touchstone may approve requests for the Artistic Director to take on occasional projects outside of the organization, provided such activity does not affect the organization’s operations.

Compensation and benefits

Salary range is $54,000 to $64,000 plus extended health and dental benefits after three months. Vacation begins at three weeks plus the office closure between the statutory holiday of Christmas and New Years Day.  Ideally, the successful candidate will overlap with the current Artistic Director for the month of June 2024. There may be an opportunity to contribute to programming the 24/25 season.

Touchstone Theatre strongly supports and values diversity and fosters an equitable and inclusive work environment. We welcome and encourage applications from women, persons of colour, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, and members of other marginalized or under-represented groups.

To apply please send your cover letter and resume to searchcommittee@touchstonetheatre.com on or before Feb 6, 2024.