Programs & Producing Associate

Reports to: Executive & Producing Director (EPD)

Works closely with: Teaching Artists, Production Manager, Production Team

POSITION SUMMARY

The Programs & Producing Associate (PPA) is responsible for development and delivery of a broad range of the Young Playwrights Festival (YPF) seasonal activities. Leads YPF  in-school programming, development of its Alumni program, anthology publication, and other education initiatives. The YPF PPA also assists the EPD with main stage production. This is a part-time position of up to 20 hours per week. Potential for position to become full-time in 2023-24.

Key Duties/Responsibilities:

Young Playwrights School Program

• Responsible for the overall coordination and day-to-day management of this CPS program funded through restricted education grants.  This includes:
• Works with the EPD to develop and grow the school program;
• Maintains existing and builds new relationships with educators and administrators;
• Coordinates with teachers and schools to schedule workshops, residencies and matinees; submits invoices and payment requests for teaching artists and related talent in a timely manner;
• Gathers and maintains program reports (e.g., school and students served);
• Documents activities on the Google Drive and calendars;
• Generates grant updates and final reports for submission to funders;
• Maintains social media relating program/production information;

YPF Competition & Events

• Responsible for YPF competition phase (solicit volunteer readers, follow-up, receipt and distribution of evaluations, etc. through 3 rounds)
• Coordinates the Final Round Immersion Workshops and Final Round programming;
• Oversees the day-of activities associated with the Final Round Event, including moderating the reading discussion, refreshments, swag, and any technical requirements.

Productions

• Assists in production scheduling and interfacing, as well as management of  new works and artistic programming
• Coordinates/liaise with production staff;
• Provides support to the EPD on developing projects and initiatives;
• Leads and/or organizes Post-show discussions and panels
• Casts readings and assists casting director with production-related casting
• Assists with other tasks as needed

Key Selection Criteria

Demonstrable knowledge of education programming, producing, event management and program delivery experience particularly within a theatre, festival or venue context
A demonstrable knowledge of the performing arts sector and understanding of the Theatre’s position in the broader arts ecology
High level relationship management abilities and excellent communication skills, capable of inspiring confidence in people from a wide variety of backgrounds
Highly motivated, a self-starter demonstrating initiative, flexibility and resilience under pressure

The ideal candidate will bring:

• 2-5 years artistic administration and/or general/company management experience in a non-profit performing arts organization
• A passion for developing new work and knowledge of the Chicago Public Schools, youth and professional artistic community
• Excellent communication skills, follow-though and attention to detail
• Capacity to translate needs and values into institutional strategies
• A sense of humor and a calm confident presence during chaotic periods
• A collaborative, shared workflow approach to programming and producing