Artistic Director

The Artistic Director for the Utah Shakespeare Festival (USF) will be a dynamic leader with a passion for Shakespeare production,

performance in repertory, and ensemble storytelling who will work collaboratively with Festival staff and company members, the Board of Governors, and the leadership of Southern Utah University to articulate and direct the Festival’s vision and propel the organization into its next decades of artistic excellence.

The Artistic Director is responsible for conceiving, developing, and implementing the artistic vision and focus of the organization, and for major decisions about the ongoing development of the aesthetic values and activities including mainstage productions, The Greenshow, new play development, and educational programming.

The Artistic Director stewards the equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging values of the Festival.

The Artistic Director is responsible for the hiring, supervision, and evaluation of resident and seasonal artistic personnel including artistic associates, directors, designers, and performers. The Artistic Director reports to the Festival’s Managing Director.

In partnership with the Managing Director, Board of Governors, and Festival staff; the Artistic Director develops and implements the strategic plan and an annual operating budget ensuring the financial affairs of the organization are viable, sustainable, and transparent.

The Artistic Director is a spokesperson for the organization’s artistic mission and programs with Festival stakeholders including the Board of Governors, patrons and donors, community members, media and others. Fundraising and events are integral duties.

Serve as the leader of the artistic and production team to develop season plans, calendar, and play selection. Selects and schedules season plays and other productions.

In collaboration with the Managing Director, develop and adhere to the annual operating budget. Determine appropriate departmental policies/procedures, and budget expenditures.

Implement the artistic vision and strategic goals for the organization, including the management of day-to-day artistic operations and seasonal oversight. This includes attending design and production meetings, technical and dress rehearsals, and preview and opening performances to ensure artistic excellence and mission adherence.

Auditions, recruits, and hires directors, designers, and performers. Make necessary artistic adjustments as needed during rehearsals and performances. Oversees the Production Manager and Festival Stage Manager who recruit, hire, and supervise seasonal stage management and production staff. Collaborates with the General Manager to negotiate fees and contracts with artists and unions.

Partners with the SUU Department of Theatre, Dance and Arts Administration department to cultivate educational opportunities and maximize efficiencies with facility scheduling.

Assist the Managing Director, USF Development office, and SUU Advancement office in fundraising efforts. Engage with Festival stakeholders to deepen relationships and enhance contributed revenue opportunities.

The Artistic Director will contribute creatively (design, direct or perform) in at least one theatrical production per year at the Festival.

After the first two years in leadership, they may have the opportunity to work professionally with other organizations at the discretion of the University President. The off-campus artistic residency shall be to the mutual benefit of both USF and the guest presenting theatre.