Artistic Director

The Artistic Director for Theater Mu reports to the Board of Directors and is a collaborative partner with the Managing Director. The Artistic Director’s primary responsibilities are the development and implementation of artistic vision, community connection and integration, leadership and coaching of staff, and acting as the public face of Theater Mu, both locally and nationally.

The next Artistic Director will have several opportunities and challenges to navigate for Theater Mu.

Areas of Strength

Mu has a strong sense of identity and the community it serves.
The theater has built a reputation and expectation of high quality work within the Twin Cities. Their work has been recognized and awarded by funders such as the Mellon and Jerome Foundations.

Areas of Growth and Sustainability

While the organization’s budget has doubled in size over the last five years, finding sustainable sources of revenue to maintain its current operations will be a key focus for leadership.
The organization is itinerant and more susceptible to logistical and scheduling constraints.

Requirements

A qualified candidate will have a depth of understanding of the lived experiences of AAPIs; a knowledge of or willingness to learn about the unique histories and experiences of AAPIs in Minnesota; recognition (if not full knowledge) of the particular challenges of a culturally-specific theater; and the ability and desire to clearly communicate on issues related to social justice and Asian American and Pacific Islander Communities.

Professional Experience

• Demonstrated capacity to curate and communicate an artistic vision that clearly supports the mission and value of Theater Mu and its community.
• Demonstrated success directing and/or producing artistically excellent theater.
• Experience with leading teams and creating a respectful team culture.
• A clear comfort level in interacting with current and potential donors.
• Experience with creating and working within budgets and organizational systems.
• Ability and desire to engage with the artistic, AAPI, and leadership communities.
• Excellent communication skills that inspire and motivate others.
• A desire to develop and nurture professional relationships within the community that will benefit Mu and Mu’s community.
• Personal Qualities and Values
• A deep commitment to AAPI communities in the US and beyond.
• A commitment to developing local AAPI artists and expanding the AAPI theater-going audience in the Twin Cities.
• Passion for theater and its power for change.
• A commitment to artistic excellence.
• The ability to work effectively both as a leader and as a member of a collaborative team.
• A leadership approach that is based on transparency, communication, kindness, and acceptance, coupled with a desire to support an organizational culture based on these qualities.
• Strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Sense of humor and ability to maintain enthusiasm even in the face of setbacks.