Artistic Director

Company Overview

Devoted to the development and production of new and existing Canadian plays, Lighthouse Festival Theatre (“Lighthouse” / “LFT”) strives to be artistically excellent, support and encourage local and regional artists, and be a source of enjoyment and pride in our communities. Operating in two port towns on Lake Erie, our theatres operate under a central policy of hospitality, accessibility, and affordability for all.

Lighthouse is seeking a visionary and collaborative Artistic Director to lead the creative life of our organization. This is a senior leadership role for an experienced theatre professional who is passionate about storytelling, innovation, and building meaningful connections with artists, audiences, and community.

Job Description

As Artistic Director, you will:

•Partner with the Executive Director to lead the organization. You will work closely on day-to-day management, strategy, planning, and fundraising.
•Define and lead the artistic vision of Lighthouse Festival Theatre, playing an active role in representing the theatre in the communities in which it operates.
•Select and program the annual season.
•Oversee all productions from concept to closing, including acting as Director on at least two productions each season.
•Direct the Lighthouse community show for the first two years of tenure.
•Recruit, mentor, and inspire artistic and production teams.
•Champion creativity, experimentation, and excellence across all artistic work, including supporting play development.
•Provide artistic input on marketing, branding and publicity efforts.
•Serve as a public ambassador and spokesperson for the theatre.
•Represent the artistic portfolio at board and stakeholder meetings.

You are:
•A seasoned theatre professional with a strong artistic voice.
•A collaborative and inspirational leader who brings out the best in others.
•Comfortable balancing creative ambition with operational and financial realities.
•Skilled at communicating with diverse audiences and stakeholders.
•Energized by innovation, growth, and community connection.

Qualifications
•10+ years of professional theatre experience.
•Proven experience directing and overseeing productions.
•Experience leading artistic teams and managing creative processes.
•Background in theatre production or related training.
•Demonstrated superlative communication skills.
•Grant-writing and public relations experience is an asset.
•Willingness to live within a reasonable distance from Port Dover, to travel locally as required, and to work in the theatre offices at least 80% of the time.