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Leadership

Content in this section explores leadership in theatre: best practices, aspects that need to change, and more. It contains one of HowlRound’s most robust Journal series: The Changeover: Leadership in Transition, marking the period of unprecedented turnover of leadership in the nonprofit theatre in the United States and Canada from 2018 to 2021. In this series, incoming or outgoing institutional leaders are in conversation with one another about their tenure leading organizations and their hopes for the future.

The Latest

How to Find the Way in Executive Search for Arts Organizations 
Essay
How to Find the Way in Executive Search for Arts Organizations 
by Al Heartley
24 July 2024
The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) National Conference
Video
The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) National Conference
Panels and Conversations about the State of American Theatre
Thursday 20 June to Saturday 22 June 2024
Chicago, IL
From Perfectionism to Play with Malia’Kekia Nicolini
Podcast
From Perfectionism to Play with Malia’Kekia Nicolini
by Yura Sapi, malia'kekia nicolini
13 June 2024
A group sings into microphones onstage.
How to Find the Way in Executive Search for Arts Organizations 
Essay

How to Find the Way in Executive Search for Arts Organizations 

24 July 2024

Al Heartley believes that executive search process should leave an organization better than it was before. This, he writes, is one way to address the fieldwide issues facing theatre leadership. 

event poster for theatre communications group national conference chicago 2024.
The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) National Conference
Video

The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) National Conference

Panels and Conversations about the State of American Theatre

Thursday 20 June to Saturday 22 June 2024
Chicago, IL

The TCG National Conference is one of the largest nationwide gatherings of the not-for-profit theatre community. TCG has been gathering folks this way since 1976 and each year, the National Conference creates space for theatre practitioners across the globe to get inspired, learn from one another, and build toward collective action. It’s also been a way for TCG and the field to get intimately familiar with theatre communities around the country, and to channel the particular energy of their artists.

Promotional graphic for building our own tables featuring Malia'Kekia Nicolini
From Perfectionism to Play with Malia’Kekia Nicolini
Podcast

From Perfectionism to Play with Malia’Kekia Nicolini

13 June 2024

In this final episode of season four, ​​Malia'Kekia, co-founder of B4 The Other Creations, explores how play and vulnerability drive transformational breakthroughs. Malia'Kekia shares their journey as an educator and leader, emphasizing the power of releasing perfectionism and embracing the unknown. The episode highlights fostering innovation and deep connections through the unique pedagogy of play.

Promotional graphic for building our own tables featuring Murielle Borst Tarrant
Reclaiming Sovereignty in Theatre with Murielle Borst Tarrant
Podcast

Reclaiming Sovereignty in Theatre with Murielle Borst Tarrant

6 June 2024

In this episode, Native theatremaker and founder of Safe Harbors NYC, Murielle Borst Tarrant shares her journey and vision. Safe Harbors NYC supports Indigenous performing arts, providing a creative sanctuary and advocating for cultural equity. Discover strategies to overcome industry frustrations, build inclusive spaces, and see the light ahead. Tune in for wisdom and inspiration to create meaningful change in the theatre industry.

Promotional graphic for building our own tables.
Redefining Success with Carla Stillwell
Podcast

Redefining Success with Carla Stillwell

23 May 2024

In this episode, Carla Stillwell and Yura Sapi challenge the "starving artist" trope, offering tips to overcome scarcity mindsets in theatre. Carla, founder of the Stillwell Institute for Contemporary Black Art, shares personal experiences advocating for breaking traditional theatre boundaries and fostering holistic, inclusive environments emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration, and highlighting storytelling's power, especially for people of color.

A promotional graphic for Building Our Own Tables.
The Soul Work of Theatre with Sharia Benn
Podcast

The Soul Work of Theatre with Sharia Benn

16 May 2024

Join us on a journey with Sharia Benn, founder of Sankofa African American Theatre Company, as she shares her inspiring origin story and the challenges of fostering representation in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's theatre scene. Delve into the challenges of representation, the soul work of theatre, and the transformative impact of art in shaping communities. Join us for a compelling exploration of identity, equity, and the art of social change.

Building Our Own Tables teaser image with guest headshot.
Breaking Boundaries with Jamil Khoury
Podcast

Breaking Boundaries with Jamil Khoury

9 May 2024

Experience the transformational journey of Silk Road Cultural Center, formerly Silk Road Theatre Project and Silk Road Rising, as co-founder Jamil Khoury shares about navigating the landscape of storytelling post-9/11. From combating stereotypes and standards to nurturing diverse voices, follow their evolution from live theatre to digital platforms, culminating in a multidisciplinary approach aimed at fostering connection and understanding. Join the movement towards inclusivity and empowerment in the arts.

A promotional graphic for Teaching Theatre.
On Teaching Dramaturgy
Podcast

On Teaching Dramaturgy

7 May 2024

Dramaturgs serve productions in a variety of ways, which are often dictated by needs of the play and the playwright. Playwright and dramaturg Jacqueline Goldfinger, along with dramaturg and dean of the Theatre School at DePaul University Martine Kei Green-Rogers, join the conversation to discuss the role of the dramaturg in new play development, as well as how to incorporate dramaturgy in the classroom.

A promotional graphic for Building Our Own Tables.
Innovating Theatre with Tiffany Vega
Podcast

Innovating Theatre with Tiffany Vega

2 May 2024

Discover Tiffany Vega's inspiring journey from premature birth to trailblazing theatre professional. From East Harlem to Evolution Management Consultants, she highlights the power of authenticity, perseverance, and innovation in the theatre industry. Gain your insights into challenging norms and fostering diversity for the future of our live entertainment artform.

A promotional graphic for Building Our Own Tables.
Elevating Indigenous Perspectives with Rhiana Yazzie
Podcast

Elevating Indigenous Perspectives with Rhiana Yazzie

18 April 2024

In this episode, Rhiana Yazzie shares her journey of founding New Native Theatre and the importance of Indigenous storytelling. She reflects on the challenges and rewards of carving her own path in the theatre world, emphasizing the significance of staying true to one's cultural identity and values. Rhiana discusses the transformative power of art, community, and connection to the earth and invites listeners to support and engage with New Native Theatre's work.

A promotional graphic for Building Our Own Tables.
Theatre as Medicine with CJ Ochoco
Podcast

Theatre as Medicine with CJ Ochoco

11 April 2024

In this episode, we delve into CJ's origin story, tracing her journey from pre-med student to theatre major and founder of Breaking Wave Theatre Company in Guam. Yura and CJ explore the transformative power of theatre as a healing space, the importance of community and accessibility, and the revolutionary potential of reimagining organizational structures. With passion and insight, we envision a future where storytelling and connection thrive.

A woman in a black and tan dress speaks to collaborators at a table.
We Were Called to This Moment
Essay

We Were Called to This Moment

9 April 2024

Hana Sharif reflects on lessons learned during the dramatically shifting theatrical landscape in recent years, and the necessity of artistic leaders embracing abundance during this moment. 

Building Our Own Tables teaser image with guest headshot.
Cultivating Abundance Through Community Care with Nicole C. Limón
Podcast

Cultivating Abundance Through Community Care with Nicole C. Limón

4 April 2024

In this episode, Nicole C. Limón shares her origin story, tracing back to pivotal moments of realizing her worth and breaking through societal invisibility in the theatre world. From co-founding Movimiento Molcajete to birthing Matriarchy Theatre, Nicole unveils her journey, embodying resilience and community care. Tune in to explore the transformative power of authenticity, the art of manifesting abundance, and the future of leadership in the evolving theatre industry. 

Building Our Own Tables teaser image with guest headshot.
Crafting a Global Table for Caribbean Voices with Magaly Colimon-Christopher
Podcast

Crafting a Global Table for Caribbean Voices with Magaly Colimon-Christopher

28 March 2024

In this episode, Yura Sapi is joined by Conch Shell Productions founder, Magaly Colimon-Christopher as she shares her journey in establishing a global platform for Caribbean voices. Learn how Magaly navigates challenges and fosters collaboration to amplify underrepresented voices, and explore the transformative power of storytelling in shaping perceptions and fostering empathy on a global scale.

A promotional graphic for the Daughters of Lorraine Podcast.
The Virtuosity of Black Storytelling with Tarell Alvin McCraney
Podcast

The Virtuosity of Black Storytelling with Tarell Alvin McCraney

6 March 2024

Hosts Leticia Ridley and Jordan Ealey interview Oscar winner and MacArthur genius Tarell Alvin McCraney about his work as a playwright, how Black people tell stories, and what it means to be an artistic leader.

A promotional graphic for the Daughters of Lorraine Podcast.
Completing the Unfinished Sentences of Our Ancestors with Jonathan McCrory
Podcast

Completing the Unfinished Sentences of Our Ancestors with Jonathan McCrory

7 February 2024

Jonathan McCrory is a Tony Award and Emmy Award nominated producer and a two-time Obie Award-winning artist who has served as executive artistic director at the National Black Theatre since 2012. In this episode, hosts Jordan Ealey and Leticia Ridley talk with McCrory about his work with the National Black Theatre and his ongoing commitment to nourishing and cultivating Black creativity and Black life.

A man stands with his back to the camera and stares at an empty set on stage.
Can’t Do Theatre by Yourself
Essay

Can’t Do Theatre by Yourself

23 January 2024

Latinx theatremakers Jorge Piña and Christin Eve Cato sit down for a conversation about their paths through the theatre field and their advice for future generations looking to sustain this work while caring for themselves and each other.

An actress stands onstage in front of a shadow puppet of a man on a horse.
Perspectives from Two Teatros Doing the Work
Essay

Perspectives from Two Teatros Doing the Work

3 January 2024

Alberto Justiniano and Milta Ortiz, artistic leaders at Teatro del Pueblo and Borderlands Theater, respectively, have to balance organizational leadership and prioritizing their art. They discuss this work and the ways they engage their Latine communities while providing them with avenues to reflect on social justice issues. 

Artistic Leadership: Toward Equitable Search and Support Event poster.
Artistic Leadership: Toward Equitable Search and Support
Video

Artistic Leadership: Toward Equitable Search and Support

A Conversation About What Equitable Search and Support Really Looks Like for Artistic Directors

Monday 13 November 2023
United States

Nonprofit professional theatres have expressed commitments to new voices and new visions, and promised more equitable and inclusive practice in building and supporting their teams. But what does equitable search and support really look like for artistic directors?

A woman stands smiling in front of a theatre marquis.
On Field and Fire
Essay

On Field and Fire

16 October 2023

After being asked to weigh in on the “crisis and chrysalis” that currently exists within the theatre field by Theatre Communications Group, Todd London shares his plea for us all as we dismantle and rebuild this field together.

Promotional graphic for "Black and Indigenous Futures Aligning".
Black and Indigenous Futures: Aligning Our Visions and Activism
Video

Black and Indigenous Futures: Aligning Our Visions and Activism

Thursday 21 September 2023
Boston, Massachusetts

This discussion explored visions of activism, advocacy, co-leadership, and solidarity in Afro-Indigenous, Black, and Indigenous futures.

Promotional graphic for "Black and Indigenous Histories to the Now".
Black and Indigenous Histories to the Now: How We Carry Our Past into the Present
Video

Black and Indigenous Histories to the Now: How We Carry Our Past into the Present

Wednesday 20 September 2023
Boston, Massachusetts

This discussion explored the foundations of Black and Indigenous co-leadership solidarity, shared understanding, and movement building.

A man holding cards for a speech and a woman who smiles and claps stand together on stage.
Decolonizing Arts Leadership Through Shared Black and Indigenous Leadership
Essay

Decolonizing Arts Leadership Through Shared Black and Indigenous Leadership

12 September 2023

David Howse and Ronee Penoi, co-leaders of ArtsEmerson, introduce the Black and Indigenous Futures Series with an essay that discusses their commitment to a shared leadership approach that foregrounds solidarity between Black and Indigenous communities.

Collage of the headshots for the members of the Artistic Caucus.
The Artistic Caucus: How Four Theatres Joined Forces to Disrupt Curatorial Practices
Essay

The Artistic Caucus: How Four Theatres Joined Forces to Disrupt Curatorial Practices

13 July 2023

Lauren Halvorsen reports on the origins, development, and learnings of the Artistic Caucus, a collaborative initiative between four regional theatres. By employing a racially and geographically diverse collective of freelance artists to identify new work, scout projects, and facilitate relationships on behalf of all four theatres, the Artistic Caucus seeks to disrupt traditional curatorial practices.

A woman giving a speech at a podium on the left and a man speaking into a microphone on the right.
Projections and Reflections on Chicano Theatre
Essay

Projections and Reflections on Chicano Theatre

15 June 2023

Tony Garcia and Claudia de Vasco share their experiences becoming immersed in the Chicano movement, which has informed both of their careers in artistic leadership.

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