Director of Performing Arts Programming

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health and retirement benefits

Professional development and travel to

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Director of Performing Arts Programming for a prominent cultural center in Paarl, Western Cape. The role leads a diverse season of theatre, dance, music, and other performing arts, shaping artistic direction and audience engagement.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in a related field, 8+ years in programming or producing, strong negotiation and budgeting skills, and a proven track record of curating high-quality programs while building key relationships

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Performing Arts, Arts Administration, Music, Theatre, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in programming, producing, or managing performing arts events, preferably in a senior role.
• Proven ability in curating diverse and high-quality performing arts programs.
• Strong negotiation skills and experience in contract management.
• Budget management and financial oversight.
• Excellent understanding of various performing arts disciplines and contemporary trends.
• Networking, relationship-building, and communication skills.
• Experience in marketing and audience development strategies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive artistic vision and programming strategy for the performing arts seasons.
• Identify, cultivate, and secure performances from a wide range of artists, companies, and genres.
• Negotiate contracts, fees, and technical riders with artists, agents, and presenters.
• Manage the performing arts budget, ensuring financial responsibility and maximizing revenue opportunities.
• Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to develop effective promotional campaigns.
• Oversee the logistical aspects of programming, including scheduling, venue coordination, and technical requirements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with artists, arts organizations, community leaders, and funding bodies.
• Assess audience engagement and develop strategies to broaden reach and diversity.
• Stay current with developments and innovations in the performing arts field.
• Supervise and mentor program staff and volunteers.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Budget management

Relationship building

Audience development

Education

Master's degree in Performing Arts/Arts Administration/Music/Theatre

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent cultural center in **Paarl, Western Cape**, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Performing Arts Programming to lead its vibrant performance seasons. This senior role is responsible for curating and managing a diverse program of theatre, dance, music, and other performing arts events. The ideal candidate possesses a deep passion for the performing arts, extensive knowledge of artistic trends, strong programming and negotiation skills, and a proven ability to manage budgets and foster relationships with artists and companies. You will play a crucial role in shaping the cultural landscape of **Paarl** and the broader Winelands region, attracting world-class talent and engaging diverse audiences. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a dynamic performing arts program and contribute significantly to the cultural vitality of the community. Your vision will define the artistic direction of the center.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive artistic vision and programming strategy for the performing arts seasons.
• Identify, cultivate, and secure performances from a wide range of artists, companies, and genres.
• Negotiate contracts, fees, and technical riders with artists, agents, and presenters.
• Manage the performing arts budget, ensuring financial responsibility and maximizing revenue opportunities.
• Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to develop effective promotional campaigns.
• Oversee the logistical aspects of programming, including scheduling, venue coordination, and technical requirements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with artists, arts organizations, community leaders, and funding bodies.
• Assess audience engagement and develop strategies to broaden reach and diversity.
• Stay current with developments and innovations in the performing arts field.
• Supervise and mentor program staff and volunteers.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Performing Arts, Arts Administration, Music, Theatre, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in programming, producing, or managing performing arts events, preferably in a senior role.
• Demonstrated success in curating diverse and high-quality performing arts programs.
• Strong negotiation skills and experience in contract management.
• Proven ability in budget management and financial oversight.
• Excellent understanding of various performing arts disciplines, including contemporary trends.
• Exceptional networking, relationship-building, and communication skills.
• Experience in developing marketing and audience development strategies.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Passion for the performing arts and commitment to artistic excellence.
• Knowledge of the **Paarl, Western Cape** cultural scene is beneficial.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance-based incentives, and comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• This role provides a significant opportunity to influence and shape the performing arts landscape in a beautiful region.
• Professional development opportunities, including travel to industry conferences and festivals, are provided.
• You will be part of a passionate and dedicated team committed to cultural enrichment.
• Additional benefits include generous annual leave and the potential for leadership in regional arts initiatives.
• Access to exclusive performances and industry networking events is a key advantage.