Artistic Director

The Duluth Playhouse is seeking a collaborative and visionary Artistic Director. This is a unique opportunity to steward one of the region’s most important cultural institutions while driving organizational health, community impact, and long‑term sustainability.

About Duluth Playhouse

Founded in 1914, the Duluth Playhouse is one of the oldest nonprofit theaters in the United States and a cornerstone of the region’s cultural life. Through mainstage productions, youth and education programming, and community partnerships, the Playhouse connects artists and audiences and enriches the creative fabric of the Northland.

Position Summary

The Artistic Director (AD) is the senior artistic leader of the Duluth Playhouse, responsible for defining and advancing the organization’s artistic vision, programming, and creative standards.

This role is intentionally focused on artistic leadership, allowing the Artistic Director to devote their energy to programming, artists, and creative culture.

Key Responsibilities

Artistic Vision & Programming

• Develop and articulate a clear artistic vision aligned with the Playhouse’s mission and community.
• Curate and propose annual and multi‑year seasons that balance artistic ambition, audience engagement, and organizational sustainability.
• Champion diverse voices, stories, and creative approaches.
• Present season concepts and artistic rationale to the Executive Director and Board.

Production & Creative Leadership

• Provide artistic leadership for all productions.
• Select and support directors, designers, and creative teams.
• Oversee artistic, production, education staff and ensure high professional standards.
• Foster rehearsal and production environments that support creativity and respect.

Artists, Staff & Culture

• Serve as a leader and mentor to artists and creative staff.
• Promote a collaborative, transparent, and respectful artistic culture.
• Support the growth and development of local and regional artists.
• Partner with the Executive Director on staffing decisions related to artistic and production functions.

Community Engagement

• Build strong, authentic relationships with local, regional, and visiting artists.
• Act as an artistic ambassador for the Playhouse in the community.
• Support partnerships, talkbacks, educational initiatives, and community conversations connected to programming.

Collaboration & Governance

• Work closely with the Executive Director to align artistic goals with organizational capacity.
• Participate in board meetings and committees as appropriate, particularly around season planning and artistic strategy.

Qualifications

Required

• Significant experience as a theatre director, artistic leader, or senior creative professional.
• Demonstrated success developing compelling artistic programming.
• Strong leadership, collaboration, and communication skills.
• Commitment to inclusive and community‑engaged artistic practice.
• Bachelor’s degree in Theatre, Production or related field;  Masters preferred

Preferred

• Experience in a regional or community‑based theatre.
• Experience partnering with an Executive Director or Managing Director.
• Familiarity with balancing artistic vision and financial realities.
• Experience mentoring artists and creative teams.

Compensation

$70,000 – $90,000 commensurate with experience

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their interest and qualifications. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Submit to:  leadershipapplications@duluthplayhouse.org

Duluth Playhouse is committed to strengthening diversity and inclusion in our workplace.  Applicants of all backgrounds and identities are strongly encouraged to apply.