Galway Theatre Festival is looking for a new Artistic Director

Do you have a passion for festivals, artists and audiences? Are you deeply
committed to theatre and the arts? Are you a cultural dynamo with a strong
vision around innovation and cultural transformation? Do you spark joy?
If so we want to hear from you!

Galway Theatre Festival is excited to present a wonderful opportunity for a
dynamic and forward-thinking individual to become our new Artistic Director.
This pivotal role within our organisation seeks a creative powerhouse to shape
the future of one of Ireland’s most vibrant and avant-garde dual-language
theatre festivals of new and emerging work. Galway Theatre Festival is not
just a festival but a crucial platform for independent performing artists and
theatre companies based in Galway, the West of Ireland and beyond.

As the Artistic Director you play the most crucial role within the organisation,
serving as the key member of the senior executive year-round team. Your job
is dynamic, interpersonal, creative and administrative; mixing all the best parts
of project management, artist support and bringing Galway Theatre Festival’s
creative vision to life.

Galway Theatre Festival is known as a festival that champions the work of
emerging theatre artists and new work; creating space for theatre that pushes
artistic boundaries, and celebrates the diversity and dynamism of Irish culture.
As we embark on a new phase of development and growth, we are looking for
an Artistic Director who will lead with passion, strategic insight, and a
commitment to fostering innovation and inclusivity.

This role offers the opportunity to be at the forefront of the Irish arts scene. If
you are eager to be part of an organisation that thrives on experimentation
and believes in the power of the arts to provoke, inspire, and connect, then
this role is the perfect opportunity for you.

Join us in shaping the future of Galway Theatre Festival and play a vital role in
developing the cultural landscape of Galway City and County. If you are ready
to take a leading role in this extraordinary organisation and elevate it to new
realms of possibility, we invite you to apply and become an integral part of our
journey.

Job Title: Artistic Director, Galway Theatre Festival 

Location: Galway, Ireland 

Job Type: Part-Time, Three-Year Contract

Deadline for submission of applications: 5pm, Tuesday 27 August 2024 

About Us:

The Galway Theatre Festival is a premier cultural event, celebrating the vibrant and diverse theatre scene in the West of Ireland. Our mission is to showcase both emerging and established talent, presenting innovative and engaging performances that resonate with a wide audience. We are committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment for artists and audiences alike. 

Position Overview: 

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Artistic Director to lead the creative direction of the Galway Theatre Festival. The successful candidate will be responsible for curating and programming a diverse and dynamic festival that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Galway and the broader artistic community. The Artistic Director will work closely with the festival’s General Manager, Board of Directors, and key stakeholders to ensure the festival’s artistic excellence and sustainability. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Develop and implement the artistic vision and strategy for the Galway Theatre Festival. 
• Curate a diverse and high-quality program of theatre productions, workshops, projects and events that reflect the festival’s mission and values. 
• Identify and engage emerging and established artists, both locally and internationally, to participate in the festival. 
• Identify and engage artistic partners, both locally and internationally, to advance the artistic development of the festival.
• Collaborate and work closely with the General Manager to develop and manage the festival’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability while maintaining the artistic integrity of the festival. 
• Oversee the production process, including scheduling, logistics, and technical requirements, to ensure the successful execution of all festival events. 
• Build and maintain strong relationships with artists, audiences, sponsors, and community partners. 
• Represent the festival at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to raise the festival’s profile and expand its reach. 
• Lead a team of creative professionals, providing mentorship and fostering a collaborative and inclusive working environment. 
• Develop and implement audience engagement strategies to attract diverse and growing audiences. 
• Ensure the festival’s programming is accessible and inclusive, promoting diversity and representation across all activities. 
• Conduct regular evaluations of festival programming and operations, using feedback to inform future planning and improvements. 

Qualifications: 

• Experience in a senior artistic leadership role, preferably within a theatre festival or similar cultural event is strongly desirable.
• Strong curatorial vision and a deep understanding of contemporary theatre practices and trends in Galway, Ireland and beyond. 
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines. 
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and inspire artists, audiences, and stakeholders. 
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and resources effectively. 
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the festival’s programming and operations. 
• Strong network within the national and international theatre community. 
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team of professionals. 
• Passion for the arts and a deep commitment to supporting and promoting theatre as a vital cultural practice.
• A working knowledge of the Irish language is desirable.

How to Apply: 

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV, a cover letter outlining their vision for the Galway Theatre Festival, and examples of previous work to boardgtf@gmail.com by 27th August 2024. Please include “Artistic Director Application” in the subject line. The Galway Theatre Festival is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, gender, disability, or any other legally protected status. We look forward to receiving your application and exploring the possibility of working together to create an unforgettable festival experience.