AJ Four Ways: Text Only (by date) | headlines only
DANCE
IDEAS
- Director of Development – The Cape Playhouse via TOC Arts Partners
About the Opportunity
The Director of Development is a senior leadership role responsible for advancing the fundraising efforts and philanthropic growth of The Cape Playhouse and Cape Cod Center for the Arts. This dynamic individual will lead the organization’s development strategy, including overseeing all contributed income streams, such as individual giving, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and government support. Additionally, the Director will play a key role in the planning and execution of a Capital Campaign, while maintaining a focus on operational fundraising and donor stewardship. This position requires a results-oriented, strategic thinker with a proven track record of securing major gifts, cultivating long-term donor relationships, and driving successful campaigns. This work is all centered around a New England historic setting, treasured by both residents and seasonal visitors to beautiful Cape Cod.
About The Cape Playhouse
The Cape Playhouse, named one of the 50 Best Small Stage Theatres in America, has a special place in American theatre history as the longest-running professional summer theater in the country. Referred to as the “Place Where Broadway Goes to Summer” by The New York Times, the mission of the Cape Playhouse is “ to inspire, entertain, and educate through exceptional cultural and artistic experiences involving live theatre, cinematic arts, and horticulture within a vital and historic arts community that honors its past and embraces the present.”
The storied history of the Playhouse (https://capeplayhouse.com/category/history-of-the-playhouse/) dates back to the 1920s and its founding by the legendary actor Basil Rathbone who attracted the top stars from both Broadway, the West End, and Hollywood to spend summers on the Cape, appearing in multiple productions in classic summer stock tradition. Entering its 100th year, The Cape Playhouse is the oldest continuously operating summer theater in the U.S. Anchoring a beautiful cultural campus (https://capeplayhouse.com/play-grounds-2/), visitors to the Playhouse enjoy experiencing not only top quality theater, but the opportunity to explore multiple artistic venues and grounds, all in the charming Cape Cod town of Dennis, considered the heart of the Cape. With a laid back lifestyle in picturesque towns and villages, the Cape offers easy access to nature while also providing top quality arts and culture opportunities (https://www.capecodchamber.org/things-to-do/arts-and-culture/). Boston is a 90 minute drive away for ease of access to an international airport and city amenities when desired, so a life in the Dennis area offers the best of both worlds.
Job Description
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Fundraising Strategy & Leadership
- Lead the design and implementation of a comprehensive fundraising strategy for the Cape Playhouse, focused on both short-term and long-term growth in contributed income.
- Oversee the development and execution of fundraising campaigns, including an upcoming Capital Campaign, annual fund drives, major donor programs, and corporate sponsorship initiatives.
- Cultivate and manage relationships with individual major donors, board members, corporate sponsors, foundations, and government agencies to secure financial support for ongoing operations and capital improvements.
- Collaborate with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to establish annual fundraising goals, set priorities, and ensure alignment with the organization’s mission and vision.
- Develop strategies to identify, engage, and cultivate new donor prospects, leveraging research and networking opportunities.
Capital Campaign Leadership
- Play a leading role in execution and management of the Capital Campaign, working closely with campaign counsel, the Executive Director, and board members.
- Develop and manage timelines, budgets, and strategies for securing gifts for the Capital Campaign, including major and planned gifts.
- Ensure proper stewardship and communication with Capital Campaign donors to maintain long-term relationships and continue engagement throughout the campaign.
Team Leadership & Collaboration
- Provide guidance and leadership in development best practices to ensure effective execution of fundraising activities and strategic goals.
- Work closely with the Marketing and Communications teams to ensure alignment on fundraising messaging, donor communications, and promotional campaigns.
- Partner with other departments to ensure fundraising goals are integrated with programming and operations, maintaining a cohesive organizational strategy.
Operational Fundraising
- Oversee day-to-day fundraising operations, ensuring smooth execution of annual giving programs, donor tracking, and gift processing.
- Monitor fundraising progress, track key performance metrics, and prepare regular reports for the Executive Director, Board, and other key stakeholders.
- Ensure all donor data is maintained accurately in the donor management system, leveraging tools like Tessitura (or similar platforms) to generate reports and analyze trends.
Events & Special Projects
- Lead the planning and execution of major fundraising events, including the Cape Playhouse’s annual gala, donor receptions, and capital campaign events.
- Oversee event logistics, invite lists, RSVPs, and coordination with external partners to ensure successful and impactful fundraising events.
- Assist with other high-priority initiatives as needed, including project management for new fundraising programs or special campaigns.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strategic Vision: Proven ability to design, implement, and assess comprehensive fundraising strategies to meet organizational goals.
- Leadership & Management: Strong leadership skills with a track record of effectively managing and developing fundraising programs.
- Relationship Building: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, board members, and key stakeholders.
- Communications Expertise: Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives and presentations to engage donors.
- Fundraising Expertise: Significant experience in major gift fundraising, annual giving, capital campaigns, and corporate sponsorships.
- Analytical Skills: Strong proficiency in analyzing fundraising data, preparing reports, and using donor management systems (e.g., Tessitura, Salesforce).
- Event Management: Extensive experience in planning and executing large-scale fundraising events, from galas to donor receptions.
- Operational Focus: Ability to manage day-to-day fundraising operations while strategically planning for long-term sustainability.
- Artistic Passion: A deep passion for the arts, particularly the performing arts, with a commitment to supporting the mission of the Cape Playhouse.
Education & Experience
- Minimum of 5 years of professional fundraising experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior development role.
- Experience in leading capital campaigns and securing major gifts is strongly preferred.
- A Bachelor’s degree is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in nonprofit management, fundraising, or related fields are a plus.
- Knowledge of the Cape Cod philanthropic landscape is beneficial, but not required.
Compensation
Salary for this position is $90,000 – 100,000, with benefits including health insurance and a generous time off policy with paid holidays and vacation time.
Application Instructions
The Director of Development search is being conducted on behalf of The Cape Playhouse by TOC Arts Partners, a national consultancy aligning strategies, structures, and leadership toward a thriving cultural sector. The search is being led by VP, Executive Search Cynthia Fuhrman, in consultation with and support from the TOC Arts Partners search team.
To apply, visit the online application (https://tocartspartners.com/jobs-listing/the-cape-playhouse-director-of-development) and submit your materials. Your cover letter should include any training or experience relevant to the job profile that you would like to highlight, why you consider yourself a good fit for this opportunity, and anything else you’d like us to know about your qualifications that may not be present in your resume. Applications will be accepted until this role is filled, but for best consideration we encourage you to apply by March 20.
For general questions or nominations of prospective candidates, please contact searchteam@tocartspartners.com. We kindly request no phone calls.
Specific questions about the position may be directed to:
Cynthia Fuhrman
VP, Executive Search
cynthia@tocartspartners.comNot sure you meet 100% of our qualifications? Research shows that cis men apply for jobs when they fulfill an average of 60% of the criteria, while others tend only to apply if they meet every requirement. If you believe that you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.
We are dedicated to considering a broad array of candidates, including those with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds. So, whether you’re returning to work after a gap in employment, simply looking to transition, or taking the next step in your career path, we will be glad to have you on our radar.
EEO STATEMENT
The Cape Cod Center for the Arts/Cape Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. - Dallas Black Dance Theatre seeks Executive Director
Organization
Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT), based in Dallas, Texas, is dedicated to creating and producing contemporary modern dance at the highest level of artistic excellence through performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and communities. Founded in 1976 by Ann M. Williams, following the establishment of the Dallas Black Dance Academy in 1973, DBDT was born from a powerful vision: to inspire underrepresented youth, expand access to dance as an art form, and serve as a professional role model for Black dancers. Today, DBDT serves ever-expanding national and global audiences while employing a diverse, multi-ethnic company of artists, presenting work across multiple venues within the Dallas area, including the Dee & Charles Wyly Theatre (Main Company, 551 seats), Moody Performance Hall (Encore!, 750 seats), The Majestic Theatre (Espresso Nutcracker, 1,704 seats), and the Latino Cultural Center (Academy Recital, 300 seats).
Entering its 50th year as the oldest continuously operating professional dance company in Texas and Dallas, DBDT is a $4 million organization that presents a rich and varied repertory, including modern dance, ballet, jazz, and culturally rooted works by nationally and internationally acclaimed choreographers. Over its history, DBDT has reached more than five million arts patrons and three million children worldwide, currently engaging approximately 50,000 K–12 students annually through performances and educational initiatives. These efforts reinforce DBDT’s long-standing commitment to artistic excellence, cultural connection, and broad community impact.
To support artistic development and meet growing demand, DBDT expanded its organizational structure with the launch of DBDT: Encore! in 2000 as its second performing company. This ensemble of classically trained dancers from across the country presents an annual season at the Moody Performance Hall. Complementing the DBDT’s two companies, the Dallas Black Dance Academy provides comprehensive dance education for students ages four and up, offering multiple levels of ballet, jazz, tap, and other disciplines and training more than 550 students each week at the DBDT Studios.
DBDT has been headquartered since 2008 at its permanent home in the Dallas Arts District, a renovated historic Moorland YMCA building that now houses rehearsal studios, classrooms, and administrative offices. DBDT has historically served on the board of the Dallas Arts District. DBDT’s artistic achievements have earned significant recognition, including designation as an American Masterpiece Touring Artist by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Texas Medal of Arts. Known equally for innovation, DBDT pioneered paid virtual performances during the COVID-19 pandemic, reaching audiences in more than 30 countries. As a resident company of the AT&T Performing Arts Center, DBDT now serves approximately 125,000 people annually, continuing Ann Williams’ legacy while embracing new opportunities to inspire and connect with audiences worldwide.
DBDT has a 28-member board of directors led by Board Chairman and President Jack Skinner. The executive director oversees an administrative staff of 17, including the managing director, director of facilities and operations, director of marketing and public relations, director of administration and board liaison, and senior director of development. For the year ending May 31, 2026, DBDT expects a total revenue of $4.2 million, including 79% from contributed sources (including individual donors, events, foundations, corporations, grants, and government), and 21% from earned revenue (season performances, touring, and Academy).
Sources: edited from dbdt.com; propublica.org
Community
Situated on the ancestral lands of the Wichita, Tawakoni, and other Caddoan-speaking tribes, Dallas, Texas, is home to approximately 1.3 million residents and anchors one of the nation’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions. The Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington metroplex, with more than 7.7 million people, is the fourth largest in the United States and is known for its economic vitality, cultural diversity, and strong civic and philanthropic leadership. The region offers a high quality of life, combining a dynamic urban core with accessible neighborhoods, strong schools, and a cost of living that remains comparatively affordable among major U.S. cities.
Arts and culture are central to Dallas’s identity and civic life. The Dallas Arts District, the largest contiguous urban arts district in the United States, is home to world-class institutions including the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and Dallas Theater Center. The city supports a robust ecosystem of artists, cultural organizations, and arts education initiatives, complemented by strong philanthropic investment and community engagement. Together, these qualities make Dallas and North Texas an appealing place to live and lead, particularly for those drawn to creativity, cultural impact, and the opportunity to shape a rapidly evolving city.
The Arts District was established more than 40 years ago with the bold vision that arts and culture would play a central role in shaping Dallas’s growth and identity, and that vision has proven transformative. Since 2018, the district has expanded its footprint and vibrancy with the opening of a luxury hotel and two high-rise residential developments, further integrating arts, hospitality, and urban living into a dynamic, walkable environment. These additions have strengthened the Dallas Arts District as both a cultural destination and a thriving mixed-use neighborhood, drawing residents, visitors, and businesses into its creative core. Today, the Dallas Arts District stands not only as a symbol of sustained civic investment in the arts but also as a powerful example of how cultural infrastructure can anchor economic development, community engagement, and long-term urban vitality.
Sources: visitdallas.com/arts; dallasartsdistrict.org; census.gov
Position Summary
The Executive Director of the Dallas Black Dance Theatre will provide bold, strategic leadership to strengthen financial stability and advance DBDT’s artistic excellence, educational impact, and community engagement. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will work in close partnership with the Artistic Director to steward DBDT’s legacy while positioning the organization for sustained growth, innovation, and expanded visibility.
The Executive Director will hold shared responsibility along with the Artistic Director for organizational leadership to ensure the overall health of the organization. The Executive Director is responsible for operational leadership, financial oversight, revenue growth, external relations, and administrative management. Serving as DBDT’s primary ambassador and spokesperson, this individual will cultivate strong relationships with the Board, staff, artists, donors, civic leaders, and community stakeholders. Through transparent communication, disciplined planning, and values-driven decision-making, the Executive Director will guide DBDT’s long-term strategy and ensure its continued relevance and impact.
Roles and Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
• Develop and execute a long-term strategic plan aligned with the mission of DBDT in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Identify and develop strategic partnerships to strengthen DBDT’s visibility and reputation locally, nationally, and internationally.
• Foster a culture of innovation, inclusivity, collaboration, artistic excellence, and accountability.
• Support strategic decision-making that inspires a business-oriented, professional, and purposeful environment throughout DBDT.
• Embrace other strategic leadership responsibilities as needed.Financial and Operational Management
• Provide oversight and management of all financial operations to ensure fiscal integrity, stability, and sustainability while incorporating nonprofit and dance industry best practices.
• Work closely with the finance committee, staff, and auditors to develop and monitor annual budgets according to current laws and regulations.
• Oversee the work of the accounting staff to ensure the preparation of timely financial reports for Board review and annual financial audits, while maintaining knowledge of daily cash flow and finances.
• Ensure that DBDT’s assets, including its documents and records of activity, are maintained through a documented and secure system of internal controls.
• Embrace other financial and operational management responsibilities as needed.Development and Fundraising
• Serve as the chief fundraising liaison by initiating, cultivating, and stewarding relationships with all major donors, including foundations, corporations, government funding agencies, and individuals.
• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of all fundraising and development efforts in collaboration with the Development Director and members of the DBDT Board of Directors.
• Develop, secure, and expand diversified revenue streams.
• Establish and grow an endowment fund to position DBDT for financial stability.
• Represent DBDT at community, philanthropic, and arts sector events to expand its funding base.
• Embrace other development and fundraising responsibilities as needed.Board and Labor Relations and Governance
• Serve as primary liaison between the Board of Directors and the organization’s management team by providing reports and updates on staff and current work during each Board meeting.
• Support effective Board governance by providing timely and transparent communication to enable all members to exercise their full governance and service potential.
• Assist with the identification, recruitment, and orientation of new board members.
• Collaborate with the Artistic Director to ensure compliance with all collective bargaining agreements.
• Negotiate, interpret, and provide oversight to union contracts in coordination with legal counsel and DBDT human resources.
• Foster a respectful, inclusive, and transparent workplace culture that supports all employees.
• Embrace other Board and labor relations and governance responsibilities as needed.Artistic and Program Collaboration
• Partner with the Artistic Director to align programming with DBDT’s mission and audience development goals while balancing operational and financial priorities of the organization.
• Advocate for artistic excellence and support community outreach and educational programs that expand access to dance and the arts.
• Encourage creative partnerships with other cultural and community organizations.
• Embrace other artistic and program collaboration responsibilities as needed.External Relations, Marketing, and Communications
• Function as the organizational spokesperson for DBDT, representing its values and mission across diverse platforms.
• Foster relationships with civic leaders, educational institutions, and cultural partners.
• Act as a liaison to the Dallas African American community.
• Advocate for the role of dance and artistic excellence in the broader arts ecosystem.
• Oversee all aspects of the organization’s external communications, marketing strategies, and public relations, adjusting to expand reach and increase visibility as needed.
• Embrace other external relations, marketing, and communications responsibilities as needed.Organizational Leadership and Culture
• Contribute to a healthy, equitable, and collaborative workplace, in collaboration with the Artistic Director, by maintaining a climate that attracts, retains, and motivates capable team members.
• Direct and supervise Director-level staff, ensuring that all departments function cohesively and effectively toward shared goals.
• Use financial controls to support accountability and ensure a healthy, equitable culture across DBDT.
• Implement policies and procedures that reflect DBDT’s commitment to multiculturalism, equity, and inclusion.
• Promote professional development and staff retention through strong internal leadership.
• Oversee human resources management strategies, plans, and all related hire-to-retire policies and procedures.
• Partner with the Board Human Resources committee and the Artistic Director to implement policies and procedures.
• Embrace other organizational leadership and culture responsibilities as needed.Traits and Characteristics
A collaborative, visionary, and transparent leader, the Executive Director will be recognized for their ability to drive transformation and action that advances the impact of the Dallas Black Dance Theatre. An effective communicator and bridge builder, the Executive Director will excel in cultivating relationships across many types of constituents and groups. The Executive Director will value flexibility and innovation, value team and culture building, and possess a deep awareness of issues and trends impacting the dance sector regionally and nationally.
Other key competencies include the following:
• Leadership & Personal Accountability – The clarity to use positional and relational influence to organize people to pursue a collective vision, managed with a sense of purpose and direction.
• Diplomacy & Customer Focus – The integrity to uphold the highest ethical standards while exhibiting tact, supporting members of the DBDT and Dallas communities.
• Time and Priority Management & Teamwork – The ability to work within a team to prioritize, manage, monitor, and complete multiple complex tasks, mobilize wide-ranging resources, and deliver to drive outcomes within allotted time frames.
• Conceptual Thinking – The dexterity to analyze DBDT’s current capacities, patterns, and/or abstract concepts to formulate connections and new insights.Qualifications
A minimum of 10 years of senior executive leadership experience in a comparable senior role in the nonprofit sector is required. Strong business acumen, visionary leadership, and a demonstrated ability to partner effectively with nonprofit boards and diverse stakeholders are essential. Broad knowledge of nonprofit management, including fundraising, finance, marketing and communications, and human resources, is required, along with the capacity to navigate complex, political, and dynamic civic environments. A proven record of building, motivating, and mentoring high-performing teams is crucial. Excellent written and oral communication skills, along with strong project management capabilities, are expected and grounded in values of collaboration, inclusion, integrity, and authenticity. Experience working with unionized staff and collective bargaining agreements is strongly valued. A bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree in arts administration, business, or a related field is preferred.
Compensation and Benefits
DBDT provides a competitive and equitable compensation package with an estimated base salary in the range of $160,000 to $200,000. Benefits include employer-paid medical coverage at 90% of the premium and 100% employer-paid life insurance (including a $10,000 policy), along with options for employee-paid dental, vision, and supplemental life insurance. DBDT also offers a Flexible Spending Account and a 100% match, up to 3% of annual salary on employee contributions to an IRA retirement plan. Additional benefits include 10 paid federal holidays, a fully paid week off between Christmas and New Year’s, standard PTO for sick, personal, and bereavement leave, one week of paid vacation after one year of service, and a generous $5,000 annual professional development stipend. Relocation assistance will be provided to candidates if needed.
Applications and Inquiries
To submit a cover letter and resume with a summary of demonstrable accomplishments (electronic submissions preferred), please visit https://artsconsulting.com/opensearches/dallas-black-dance-theatre-seeks-executive-director/
Dallas Black Dance Theatre has adopted a core value system that embraces all cultures to
strengthen the organization by working together for a common purpose that delivers
transformative experiences for all.With no exclusions, Dallas Black Dance Theatre offers services to the entire population,
regardless of race, age, or circumstance. Since its founding, DBDT’s innovative approach to
equity, diversity, and inclusion has been based on a dedicated commitment to lead by
example and actively implement change rather than only conceptualize results. Established
by its Board of Directors, this initiative is fulfilled through the organization’s mission to
bridge cultures, reach diverse communities, and encompass ever-expanding global
audiences. - The Supreme Court just unleashed the Era of Radioactive Artist IP
Authorship used to be a status granted by an act of creation. Now it will be a status you will have to defend through paperwork. We have moved from the era of the romantic “lone genius” to the era of the administrative author who will need to “prove” the machine didn’t make it. - Good Morning
The Live Nation antitrust trial opens today, and the stakes for the music industry are enormous — a possible breakup of the company that has dominated live entertainment for 16 years (The New York Times). It’s one of several stories today about who gets to control the cultural machinery. David Ellison’s Paramount just pulled off the Warner acquisition — a company five times its size — leaving Hollywood stunned (The Wall Street Journal). And the AI-and-data angle of that deal is the part worth watching closely (NPR).
New York has a new culture commissioner — Diya Vij, a curator with deep roots at Creative Time and the High Line, taking over at a tense economic moment (Hyperallergic). In Berlin, the Berlinale’s troubles are raising a harder question: whether Germany’s approach to permissible speech has made it impossible to run major cultural events there (The New York Times). And the Writers Guild Awards have been cancelled outright, with 115 WGA staffers still on strike (The Wrap).
All of our stories below.
- Too Many Basket Weavers?
Ontario is one of the provinces to see the highest economic impact from the sector, according to the report. – The Conversation
ISSUES
- The Louvre Scandals And A French President’s Legacy
France’s president, Emmanuel Macron, is at risk of losing what could be a legacy-defining cultural project: a $1 billion-plus refurbishment of the Louvre, which would include moving the Mona Lisa, the museum’s most famous painting, to its own room and building a new entrance. – The New York Times
- Native Artist Hand-Stitches ‘Bead Bomb’ Projects Onto Utility Poles In LA
”At the edge of a Home Depot parking lot where federal immigration agents have violently detained vendors and others,” a utility pole “carries a band of color with a fluorescent sheath … made up of 10,000 pony beads spelling a message in block letters: ‘FUCK ICE.’” – Los Angeles Public Press
- The Vatican Has Removed ‘A Chalky White Film Of Salt’ Coating The Last Judgement
That is to say, people’s sweat had gotten all over Michelangelo’s masterpiece, and now it’s being cleaned off while the sweat accumulates on a screen. – Associated Press
- The Los Angeles Olympics Logo Needs To Settle Itself Down
“If you’re going through all the trouble to create what I assume will be hundreds of logos by the time the games roll around, why would you not brand LA28 using ‘LA’ as a customized emblem? Why is it only the ‘A’ that changes out?” The answer may surprise you. – Torched LA
- The Snow Sculptures Of New York’s Latest Storm
“Collaboration was key. What came first? The snow baby sitting on the bench or the lounging mermaid beside him? Did the same person who built the snow pyramid also build the snow sphinx?” – The New York Times
MEDIA
- Too Many Basket Weavers?
Ontario is one of the provinces to see the highest economic impact from the sector, according to the report. – The Conversation
- Turmoil At This Year’s Berlinale Has Some Wondering If Germany Can Run Big Cultural Events
Some “wonder if the German government’s views on permissible speech, shaped by its sense of responsibility for the Holocaust and desire to stop antisemitism, make it impossible to run top-tier cultural events in the country.” – The New York Times
- Mamdani Picks A New Culture Commissioner For NYC
An experienced curator with a community-forward approach, she has held several key positions at Creative Time, the High Line, and elsewhere. She has even worked at the DCLA from 2014 to 2019. – Hyperallergic
- What’s On The Line As Warner Bros Accepts Paramount’s Bid
Oh: “The push into artificial intelligence by Oracle creates a thirst for more insight into how people view news and entertainment and what products they buy online. The streaming channels and social media giant both offer greater and more granular information.” – NPR
- Epstein Was Asked, Briefly, To Finance A Dick Cavett Biography
Luckily for Cavett, “the documentary was never made because WNET completed a background check on Mr. Epstein and decided it did not want him involved.” – The New York Times
MUSIC
- Firefighters Rescue Rare Books From A Library On The Cliff Edge After Landslide
“Firefighters drilled through the wall of a building behind the structure and entering for minutes at a time, strapped the bookcases together and hauled them backwards to reach the books.” – The Guardian (UK)
- Ode To A Great Editor
During my own editing stint, I came to understand writers as prisoners of their own minds, pressed up against the bars of the words they have already committed to the page. Writers suffer from a cognitive impairment that limits their ability to see flaws in their prose. – The Atlantic
- Congressional Republicans Propose National Book Banning
House Resolution 7661 transforms grassroots library battles into national policy, giving censors sweeping powers to purge school and public collections. Democracy’s reading rooms become political battlegrounds as cultural wars scale up. — Literary Hub
- Where Has The Sex Gone? Our Literature Is Getting Cleaner
Literary writers have other demands to satisfy. In general, readers come to their books seeking not an escape from reality but perspective on it. Romance novels can provide this, just as literary novels can have happy endings, but they’re still beholden to the fantasy that’s part of the genre. – The Atlantic
- A Rebirth In Critic-ing?
If the review sections of newspapers are closing down, there’s a sense that this moment could make room for a meatier, weirder kind of criticism. – Columbia Journalism Review
PEOPLE
- Director of Development – The Cape Playhouse via TOC Arts Partners
About the Opportunity
The Director of Development is a senior leadership role responsible for advancing the fundraising efforts and philanthropic growth of The Cape Playhouse and Cape Cod Center for the Arts. This dynamic individual will lead the organization’s development strategy, including overseeing all contributed income streams, such as individual giving, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and government support. Additionally, the Director will play a key role in the planning and execution of a Capital Campaign, while maintaining a focus on operational fundraising and donor stewardship. This position requires a results-oriented, strategic thinker with a proven track record of securing major gifts, cultivating long-term donor relationships, and driving successful campaigns. This work is all centered around a New England historic setting, treasured by both residents and seasonal visitors to beautiful Cape Cod.
About The Cape Playhouse
The Cape Playhouse, named one of the 50 Best Small Stage Theatres in America, has a special place in American theatre history as the longest-running professional summer theater in the country. Referred to as the “Place Where Broadway Goes to Summer” by The New York Times, the mission of the Cape Playhouse is “ to inspire, entertain, and educate through exceptional cultural and artistic experiences involving live theatre, cinematic arts, and horticulture within a vital and historic arts community that honors its past and embraces the present.”
The storied history of the Playhouse (https://capeplayhouse.com/category/history-of-the-playhouse/) dates back to the 1920s and its founding by the legendary actor Basil Rathbone who attracted the top stars from both Broadway, the West End, and Hollywood to spend summers on the Cape, appearing in multiple productions in classic summer stock tradition. Entering its 100th year, The Cape Playhouse is the oldest continuously operating summer theater in the U.S. Anchoring a beautiful cultural campus (https://capeplayhouse.com/play-grounds-2/), visitors to the Playhouse enjoy experiencing not only top quality theater, but the opportunity to explore multiple artistic venues and grounds, all in the charming Cape Cod town of Dennis, considered the heart of the Cape. With a laid back lifestyle in picturesque towns and villages, the Cape offers easy access to nature while also providing top quality arts and culture opportunities (https://www.capecodchamber.org/things-to-do/arts-and-culture/). Boston is a 90 minute drive away for ease of access to an international airport and city amenities when desired, so a life in the Dennis area offers the best of both worlds.
Job Description
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Fundraising Strategy & Leadership
- Lead the design and implementation of a comprehensive fundraising strategy for the Cape Playhouse, focused on both short-term and long-term growth in contributed income.
- Oversee the development and execution of fundraising campaigns, including an upcoming Capital Campaign, annual fund drives, major donor programs, and corporate sponsorship initiatives.
- Cultivate and manage relationships with individual major donors, board members, corporate sponsors, foundations, and government agencies to secure financial support for ongoing operations and capital improvements.
- Collaborate with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to establish annual fundraising goals, set priorities, and ensure alignment with the organization’s mission and vision.
- Develop strategies to identify, engage, and cultivate new donor prospects, leveraging research and networking opportunities.
Capital Campaign Leadership
- Play a leading role in execution and management of the Capital Campaign, working closely with campaign counsel, the Executive Director, and board members.
- Develop and manage timelines, budgets, and strategies for securing gifts for the Capital Campaign, including major and planned gifts.
- Ensure proper stewardship and communication with Capital Campaign donors to maintain long-term relationships and continue engagement throughout the campaign.
Team Leadership & Collaboration
- Provide guidance and leadership in development best practices to ensure effective execution of fundraising activities and strategic goals.
- Work closely with the Marketing and Communications teams to ensure alignment on fundraising messaging, donor communications, and promotional campaigns.
- Partner with other departments to ensure fundraising goals are integrated with programming and operations, maintaining a cohesive organizational strategy.
Operational Fundraising
- Oversee day-to-day fundraising operations, ensuring smooth execution of annual giving programs, donor tracking, and gift processing.
- Monitor fundraising progress, track key performance metrics, and prepare regular reports for the Executive Director, Board, and other key stakeholders.
- Ensure all donor data is maintained accurately in the donor management system, leveraging tools like Tessitura (or similar platforms) to generate reports and analyze trends.
Events & Special Projects
- Lead the planning and execution of major fundraising events, including the Cape Playhouse’s annual gala, donor receptions, and capital campaign events.
- Oversee event logistics, invite lists, RSVPs, and coordination with external partners to ensure successful and impactful fundraising events.
- Assist with other high-priority initiatives as needed, including project management for new fundraising programs or special campaigns.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strategic Vision: Proven ability to design, implement, and assess comprehensive fundraising strategies to meet organizational goals.
- Leadership & Management: Strong leadership skills with a track record of effectively managing and developing fundraising programs.
- Relationship Building: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, board members, and key stakeholders.
- Communications Expertise: Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives and presentations to engage donors.
- Fundraising Expertise: Significant experience in major gift fundraising, annual giving, capital campaigns, and corporate sponsorships.
- Analytical Skills: Strong proficiency in analyzing fundraising data, preparing reports, and using donor management systems (e.g., Tessitura, Salesforce).
- Event Management: Extensive experience in planning and executing large-scale fundraising events, from galas to donor receptions.
- Operational Focus: Ability to manage day-to-day fundraising operations while strategically planning for long-term sustainability.
- Artistic Passion: A deep passion for the arts, particularly the performing arts, with a commitment to supporting the mission of the Cape Playhouse.
Education & Experience
- Minimum of 5 years of professional fundraising experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior development role.
- Experience in leading capital campaigns and securing major gifts is strongly preferred.
- A Bachelor’s degree is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in nonprofit management, fundraising, or related fields are a plus.
- Knowledge of the Cape Cod philanthropic landscape is beneficial, but not required.
Compensation
Salary for this position is $90,000 – 100,000, with benefits including health insurance and a generous time off policy with paid holidays and vacation time.
Application Instructions
The Director of Development search is being conducted on behalf of The Cape Playhouse by TOC Arts Partners, a national consultancy aligning strategies, structures, and leadership toward a thriving cultural sector. The search is being led by VP, Executive Search Cynthia Fuhrman, in consultation with and support from the TOC Arts Partners search team.
To apply, visit the online application (https://tocartspartners.com/jobs-listing/the-cape-playhouse-director-of-development) and submit your materials. Your cover letter should include any training or experience relevant to the job profile that you would like to highlight, why you consider yourself a good fit for this opportunity, and anything else you’d like us to know about your qualifications that may not be present in your resume. Applications will be accepted until this role is filled, but for best consideration we encourage you to apply by March 20.
For general questions or nominations of prospective candidates, please contact searchteam@tocartspartners.com. We kindly request no phone calls.
Specific questions about the position may be directed to:
Cynthia Fuhrman
VP, Executive Search
cynthia@tocartspartners.comNot sure you meet 100% of our qualifications? Research shows that cis men apply for jobs when they fulfill an average of 60% of the criteria, while others tend only to apply if they meet every requirement. If you believe that you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.
We are dedicated to considering a broad array of candidates, including those with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds. So, whether you’re returning to work after a gap in employment, simply looking to transition, or taking the next step in your career path, we will be glad to have you on our radar.
EEO STATEMENT
The Cape Cod Center for the Arts/Cape Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. - Dallas Black Dance Theatre seeks Executive Director
Organization
Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT), based in Dallas, Texas, is dedicated to creating and producing contemporary modern dance at the highest level of artistic excellence through performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and communities. Founded in 1976 by Ann M. Williams, following the establishment of the Dallas Black Dance Academy in 1973, DBDT was born from a powerful vision: to inspire underrepresented youth, expand access to dance as an art form, and serve as a professional role model for Black dancers. Today, DBDT serves ever-expanding national and global audiences while employing a diverse, multi-ethnic company of artists, presenting work across multiple venues within the Dallas area, including the Dee & Charles Wyly Theatre (Main Company, 551 seats), Moody Performance Hall (Encore!, 750 seats), The Majestic Theatre (Espresso Nutcracker, 1,704 seats), and the Latino Cultural Center (Academy Recital, 300 seats).
Entering its 50th year as the oldest continuously operating professional dance company in Texas and Dallas, DBDT is a $4 million organization that presents a rich and varied repertory, including modern dance, ballet, jazz, and culturally rooted works by nationally and internationally acclaimed choreographers. Over its history, DBDT has reached more than five million arts patrons and three million children worldwide, currently engaging approximately 50,000 K–12 students annually through performances and educational initiatives. These efforts reinforce DBDT’s long-standing commitment to artistic excellence, cultural connection, and broad community impact.
To support artistic development and meet growing demand, DBDT expanded its organizational structure with the launch of DBDT: Encore! in 2000 as its second performing company. This ensemble of classically trained dancers from across the country presents an annual season at the Moody Performance Hall. Complementing the DBDT’s two companies, the Dallas Black Dance Academy provides comprehensive dance education for students ages four and up, offering multiple levels of ballet, jazz, tap, and other disciplines and training more than 550 students each week at the DBDT Studios.
DBDT has been headquartered since 2008 at its permanent home in the Dallas Arts District, a renovated historic Moorland YMCA building that now houses rehearsal studios, classrooms, and administrative offices. DBDT has historically served on the board of the Dallas Arts District. DBDT’s artistic achievements have earned significant recognition, including designation as an American Masterpiece Touring Artist by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Texas Medal of Arts. Known equally for innovation, DBDT pioneered paid virtual performances during the COVID-19 pandemic, reaching audiences in more than 30 countries. As a resident company of the AT&T Performing Arts Center, DBDT now serves approximately 125,000 people annually, continuing Ann Williams’ legacy while embracing new opportunities to inspire and connect with audiences worldwide.
DBDT has a 28-member board of directors led by Board Chairman and President Jack Skinner. The executive director oversees an administrative staff of 17, including the managing director, director of facilities and operations, director of marketing and public relations, director of administration and board liaison, and senior director of development. For the year ending May 31, 2026, DBDT expects a total revenue of $4.2 million, including 79% from contributed sources (including individual donors, events, foundations, corporations, grants, and government), and 21% from earned revenue (season performances, touring, and Academy).
Sources: edited from dbdt.com; propublica.org
Community
Situated on the ancestral lands of the Wichita, Tawakoni, and other Caddoan-speaking tribes, Dallas, Texas, is home to approximately 1.3 million residents and anchors one of the nation’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions. The Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington metroplex, with more than 7.7 million people, is the fourth largest in the United States and is known for its economic vitality, cultural diversity, and strong civic and philanthropic leadership. The region offers a high quality of life, combining a dynamic urban core with accessible neighborhoods, strong schools, and a cost of living that remains comparatively affordable among major U.S. cities.
Arts and culture are central to Dallas’s identity and civic life. The Dallas Arts District, the largest contiguous urban arts district in the United States, is home to world-class institutions including the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and Dallas Theater Center. The city supports a robust ecosystem of artists, cultural organizations, and arts education initiatives, complemented by strong philanthropic investment and community engagement. Together, these qualities make Dallas and North Texas an appealing place to live and lead, particularly for those drawn to creativity, cultural impact, and the opportunity to shape a rapidly evolving city.
The Arts District was established more than 40 years ago with the bold vision that arts and culture would play a central role in shaping Dallas’s growth and identity, and that vision has proven transformative. Since 2018, the district has expanded its footprint and vibrancy with the opening of a luxury hotel and two high-rise residential developments, further integrating arts, hospitality, and urban living into a dynamic, walkable environment. These additions have strengthened the Dallas Arts District as both a cultural destination and a thriving mixed-use neighborhood, drawing residents, visitors, and businesses into its creative core. Today, the Dallas Arts District stands not only as a symbol of sustained civic investment in the arts but also as a powerful example of how cultural infrastructure can anchor economic development, community engagement, and long-term urban vitality.
Sources: visitdallas.com/arts; dallasartsdistrict.org; census.gov
Position Summary
The Executive Director of the Dallas Black Dance Theatre will provide bold, strategic leadership to strengthen financial stability and advance DBDT’s artistic excellence, educational impact, and community engagement. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will work in close partnership with the Artistic Director to steward DBDT’s legacy while positioning the organization for sustained growth, innovation, and expanded visibility.
The Executive Director will hold shared responsibility along with the Artistic Director for organizational leadership to ensure the overall health of the organization. The Executive Director is responsible for operational leadership, financial oversight, revenue growth, external relations, and administrative management. Serving as DBDT’s primary ambassador and spokesperson, this individual will cultivate strong relationships with the Board, staff, artists, donors, civic leaders, and community stakeholders. Through transparent communication, disciplined planning, and values-driven decision-making, the Executive Director will guide DBDT’s long-term strategy and ensure its continued relevance and impact.
Roles and Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
• Develop and execute a long-term strategic plan aligned with the mission of DBDT in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Identify and develop strategic partnerships to strengthen DBDT’s visibility and reputation locally, nationally, and internationally.
• Foster a culture of innovation, inclusivity, collaboration, artistic excellence, and accountability.
• Support strategic decision-making that inspires a business-oriented, professional, and purposeful environment throughout DBDT.
• Embrace other strategic leadership responsibilities as needed.Financial and Operational Management
• Provide oversight and management of all financial operations to ensure fiscal integrity, stability, and sustainability while incorporating nonprofit and dance industry best practices.
• Work closely with the finance committee, staff, and auditors to develop and monitor annual budgets according to current laws and regulations.
• Oversee the work of the accounting staff to ensure the preparation of timely financial reports for Board review and annual financial audits, while maintaining knowledge of daily cash flow and finances.
• Ensure that DBDT’s assets, including its documents and records of activity, are maintained through a documented and secure system of internal controls.
• Embrace other financial and operational management responsibilities as needed.Development and Fundraising
• Serve as the chief fundraising liaison by initiating, cultivating, and stewarding relationships with all major donors, including foundations, corporations, government funding agencies, and individuals.
• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of all fundraising and development efforts in collaboration with the Development Director and members of the DBDT Board of Directors.
• Develop, secure, and expand diversified revenue streams.
• Establish and grow an endowment fund to position DBDT for financial stability.
• Represent DBDT at community, philanthropic, and arts sector events to expand its funding base.
• Embrace other development and fundraising responsibilities as needed.Board and Labor Relations and Governance
• Serve as primary liaison between the Board of Directors and the organization’s management team by providing reports and updates on staff and current work during each Board meeting.
• Support effective Board governance by providing timely and transparent communication to enable all members to exercise their full governance and service potential.
• Assist with the identification, recruitment, and orientation of new board members.
• Collaborate with the Artistic Director to ensure compliance with all collective bargaining agreements.
• Negotiate, interpret, and provide oversight to union contracts in coordination with legal counsel and DBDT human resources.
• Foster a respectful, inclusive, and transparent workplace culture that supports all employees.
• Embrace other Board and labor relations and governance responsibilities as needed.Artistic and Program Collaboration
• Partner with the Artistic Director to align programming with DBDT’s mission and audience development goals while balancing operational and financial priorities of the organization.
• Advocate for artistic excellence and support community outreach and educational programs that expand access to dance and the arts.
• Encourage creative partnerships with other cultural and community organizations.
• Embrace other artistic and program collaboration responsibilities as needed.External Relations, Marketing, and Communications
• Function as the organizational spokesperson for DBDT, representing its values and mission across diverse platforms.
• Foster relationships with civic leaders, educational institutions, and cultural partners.
• Act as a liaison to the Dallas African American community.
• Advocate for the role of dance and artistic excellence in the broader arts ecosystem.
• Oversee all aspects of the organization’s external communications, marketing strategies, and public relations, adjusting to expand reach and increase visibility as needed.
• Embrace other external relations, marketing, and communications responsibilities as needed.Organizational Leadership and Culture
• Contribute to a healthy, equitable, and collaborative workplace, in collaboration with the Artistic Director, by maintaining a climate that attracts, retains, and motivates capable team members.
• Direct and supervise Director-level staff, ensuring that all departments function cohesively and effectively toward shared goals.
• Use financial controls to support accountability and ensure a healthy, equitable culture across DBDT.
• Implement policies and procedures that reflect DBDT’s commitment to multiculturalism, equity, and inclusion.
• Promote professional development and staff retention through strong internal leadership.
• Oversee human resources management strategies, plans, and all related hire-to-retire policies and procedures.
• Partner with the Board Human Resources committee and the Artistic Director to implement policies and procedures.
• Embrace other organizational leadership and culture responsibilities as needed.Traits and Characteristics
A collaborative, visionary, and transparent leader, the Executive Director will be recognized for their ability to drive transformation and action that advances the impact of the Dallas Black Dance Theatre. An effective communicator and bridge builder, the Executive Director will excel in cultivating relationships across many types of constituents and groups. The Executive Director will value flexibility and innovation, value team and culture building, and possess a deep awareness of issues and trends impacting the dance sector regionally and nationally.
Other key competencies include the following:
• Leadership & Personal Accountability – The clarity to use positional and relational influence to organize people to pursue a collective vision, managed with a sense of purpose and direction.
• Diplomacy & Customer Focus – The integrity to uphold the highest ethical standards while exhibiting tact, supporting members of the DBDT and Dallas communities.
• Time and Priority Management & Teamwork – The ability to work within a team to prioritize, manage, monitor, and complete multiple complex tasks, mobilize wide-ranging resources, and deliver to drive outcomes within allotted time frames.
• Conceptual Thinking – The dexterity to analyze DBDT’s current capacities, patterns, and/or abstract concepts to formulate connections and new insights.Qualifications
A minimum of 10 years of senior executive leadership experience in a comparable senior role in the nonprofit sector is required. Strong business acumen, visionary leadership, and a demonstrated ability to partner effectively with nonprofit boards and diverse stakeholders are essential. Broad knowledge of nonprofit management, including fundraising, finance, marketing and communications, and human resources, is required, along with the capacity to navigate complex, political, and dynamic civic environments. A proven record of building, motivating, and mentoring high-performing teams is crucial. Excellent written and oral communication skills, along with strong project management capabilities, are expected and grounded in values of collaboration, inclusion, integrity, and authenticity. Experience working with unionized staff and collective bargaining agreements is strongly valued. A bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree in arts administration, business, or a related field is preferred.
Compensation and Benefits
DBDT provides a competitive and equitable compensation package with an estimated base salary in the range of $160,000 to $200,000. Benefits include employer-paid medical coverage at 90% of the premium and 100% employer-paid life insurance (including a $10,000 policy), along with options for employee-paid dental, vision, and supplemental life insurance. DBDT also offers a Flexible Spending Account and a 100% match, up to 3% of annual salary on employee contributions to an IRA retirement plan. Additional benefits include 10 paid federal holidays, a fully paid week off between Christmas and New Year’s, standard PTO for sick, personal, and bereavement leave, one week of paid vacation after one year of service, and a generous $5,000 annual professional development stipend. Relocation assistance will be provided to candidates if needed.
Applications and Inquiries
To submit a cover letter and resume with a summary of demonstrable accomplishments (electronic submissions preferred), please visit https://artsconsulting.com/opensearches/dallas-black-dance-theatre-seeks-executive-director/
Dallas Black Dance Theatre has adopted a core value system that embraces all cultures to
strengthen the organization by working together for a common purpose that delivers
transformative experiences for all.With no exclusions, Dallas Black Dance Theatre offers services to the entire population,
regardless of race, age, or circumstance. Since its founding, DBDT’s innovative approach to
equity, diversity, and inclusion has been based on a dedicated commitment to lead by
example and actively implement change rather than only conceptualize results. Established
by its Board of Directors, this initiative is fulfilled through the organization’s mission to
bridge cultures, reach diverse communities, and encompass ever-expanding global
audiences. - The Supreme Court just unleashed the Era of Radioactive Artist IPAuthorship used to be a status granted by an act of creation. Now it will be a status you will have to defend through paperwork. We have moved from the era of the romantic “lone genius” to the era of the administrative author who will need to “prove” the machine didn’t make it.
- Good Morning
The Live Nation antitrust trial opens today, and the stakes for the music industry are enormous — a possible breakup of the company that has dominated live entertainment for 16 years (The New York Times). It’s one of several stories today about who gets to control the cultural machinery. David Ellison’s Paramount just pulled off the Warner acquisition — a company five times its size — leaving Hollywood stunned (The Wall Street Journal). And the AI-and-data angle of that deal is the part worth watching closely (NPR).
New York has a new culture commissioner — Diya Vij, a curator with deep roots at Creative Time and the High Line, taking over at a tense economic moment (Hyperallergic). In Berlin, the Berlinale’s troubles are raising a harder question: whether Germany’s approach to permissible speech has made it impossible to run major cultural events there (The New York Times). And the Writers Guild Awards have been cancelled outright, with 115 WGA staffers still on strike (The Wrap).
All of our stories below.
- Too Many Basket Weavers?
Ontario is one of the provinces to see the highest economic impact from the sector, according to the report. – The Conversation
PEOPLE
- Director of Development – The Cape Playhouse via TOC Arts Partners
About the Opportunity
The Director of Development is a senior leadership role responsible for advancing the fundraising efforts and philanthropic growth of The Cape Playhouse and Cape Cod Center for the Arts. This dynamic individual will lead the organization’s development strategy, including overseeing all contributed income streams, such as individual giving, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and government support. Additionally, the Director will play a key role in the planning and execution of a Capital Campaign, while maintaining a focus on operational fundraising and donor stewardship. This position requires a results-oriented, strategic thinker with a proven track record of securing major gifts, cultivating long-term donor relationships, and driving successful campaigns. This work is all centered around a New England historic setting, treasured by both residents and seasonal visitors to beautiful Cape Cod.
About The Cape Playhouse
The Cape Playhouse, named one of the 50 Best Small Stage Theatres in America, has a special place in American theatre history as the longest-running professional summer theater in the country. Referred to as the “Place Where Broadway Goes to Summer” by The New York Times, the mission of the Cape Playhouse is “ to inspire, entertain, and educate through exceptional cultural and artistic experiences involving live theatre, cinematic arts, and horticulture within a vital and historic arts community that honors its past and embraces the present.”
The storied history of the Playhouse (https://capeplayhouse.com/category/history-of-the-playhouse/) dates back to the 1920s and its founding by the legendary actor Basil Rathbone who attracted the top stars from both Broadway, the West End, and Hollywood to spend summers on the Cape, appearing in multiple productions in classic summer stock tradition. Entering its 100th year, The Cape Playhouse is the oldest continuously operating summer theater in the U.S. Anchoring a beautiful cultural campus (https://capeplayhouse.com/play-grounds-2/), visitors to the Playhouse enjoy experiencing not only top quality theater, but the opportunity to explore multiple artistic venues and grounds, all in the charming Cape Cod town of Dennis, considered the heart of the Cape. With a laid back lifestyle in picturesque towns and villages, the Cape offers easy access to nature while also providing top quality arts and culture opportunities (https://www.capecodchamber.org/things-to-do/arts-and-culture/). Boston is a 90 minute drive away for ease of access to an international airport and city amenities when desired, so a life in the Dennis area offers the best of both worlds.
Job Description
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Fundraising Strategy & Leadership
- Lead the design and implementation of a comprehensive fundraising strategy for the Cape Playhouse, focused on both short-term and long-term growth in contributed income.
- Oversee the development and execution of fundraising campaigns, including an upcoming Capital Campaign, annual fund drives, major donor programs, and corporate sponsorship initiatives.
- Cultivate and manage relationships with individual major donors, board members, corporate sponsors, foundations, and government agencies to secure financial support for ongoing operations and capital improvements.
- Collaborate with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to establish annual fundraising goals, set priorities, and ensure alignment with the organization’s mission and vision.
- Develop strategies to identify, engage, and cultivate new donor prospects, leveraging research and networking opportunities.
Capital Campaign Leadership
- Play a leading role in execution and management of the Capital Campaign, working closely with campaign counsel, the Executive Director, and board members.
- Develop and manage timelines, budgets, and strategies for securing gifts for the Capital Campaign, including major and planned gifts.
- Ensure proper stewardship and communication with Capital Campaign donors to maintain long-term relationships and continue engagement throughout the campaign.
Team Leadership & Collaboration
- Provide guidance and leadership in development best practices to ensure effective execution of fundraising activities and strategic goals.
- Work closely with the Marketing and Communications teams to ensure alignment on fundraising messaging, donor communications, and promotional campaigns.
- Partner with other departments to ensure fundraising goals are integrated with programming and operations, maintaining a cohesive organizational strategy.
Operational Fundraising
- Oversee day-to-day fundraising operations, ensuring smooth execution of annual giving programs, donor tracking, and gift processing.
- Monitor fundraising progress, track key performance metrics, and prepare regular reports for the Executive Director, Board, and other key stakeholders.
- Ensure all donor data is maintained accurately in the donor management system, leveraging tools like Tessitura (or similar platforms) to generate reports and analyze trends.
Events & Special Projects
- Lead the planning and execution of major fundraising events, including the Cape Playhouse’s annual gala, donor receptions, and capital campaign events.
- Oversee event logistics, invite lists, RSVPs, and coordination with external partners to ensure successful and impactful fundraising events.
- Assist with other high-priority initiatives as needed, including project management for new fundraising programs or special campaigns.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strategic Vision: Proven ability to design, implement, and assess comprehensive fundraising strategies to meet organizational goals.
- Leadership & Management: Strong leadership skills with a track record of effectively managing and developing fundraising programs.
- Relationship Building: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, board members, and key stakeholders.
- Communications Expertise: Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives and presentations to engage donors.
- Fundraising Expertise: Significant experience in major gift fundraising, annual giving, capital campaigns, and corporate sponsorships.
- Analytical Skills: Strong proficiency in analyzing fundraising data, preparing reports, and using donor management systems (e.g., Tessitura, Salesforce).
- Event Management: Extensive experience in planning and executing large-scale fundraising events, from galas to donor receptions.
- Operational Focus: Ability to manage day-to-day fundraising operations while strategically planning for long-term sustainability.
- Artistic Passion: A deep passion for the arts, particularly the performing arts, with a commitment to supporting the mission of the Cape Playhouse.
Education & Experience
- Minimum of 5 years of professional fundraising experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior development role.
- Experience in leading capital campaigns and securing major gifts is strongly preferred.
- A Bachelor’s degree is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in nonprofit management, fundraising, or related fields are a plus.
- Knowledge of the Cape Cod philanthropic landscape is beneficial, but not required.
Compensation
Salary for this position is $90,000 – 100,000, with benefits including health insurance and a generous time off policy with paid holidays and vacation time.
Application Instructions
The Director of Development search is being conducted on behalf of The Cape Playhouse by TOC Arts Partners, a national consultancy aligning strategies, structures, and leadership toward a thriving cultural sector. The search is being led by VP, Executive Search Cynthia Fuhrman, in consultation with and support from the TOC Arts Partners search team.
To apply, visit the online application (https://tocartspartners.com/jobs-listing/the-cape-playhouse-director-of-development) and submit your materials. Your cover letter should include any training or experience relevant to the job profile that you would like to highlight, why you consider yourself a good fit for this opportunity, and anything else you’d like us to know about your qualifications that may not be present in your resume. Applications will be accepted until this role is filled, but for best consideration we encourage you to apply by March 20.
For general questions or nominations of prospective candidates, please contact searchteam@tocartspartners.com. We kindly request no phone calls.
Specific questions about the position may be directed to:
Cynthia Fuhrman
VP, Executive Search
cynthia@tocartspartners.comNot sure you meet 100% of our qualifications? Research shows that cis men apply for jobs when they fulfill an average of 60% of the criteria, while others tend only to apply if they meet every requirement. If you believe that you could excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.
We are dedicated to considering a broad array of candidates, including those with diverse workplace experiences and backgrounds. So, whether you’re returning to work after a gap in employment, simply looking to transition, or taking the next step in your career path, we will be glad to have you on our radar.
EEO STATEMENT
The Cape Cod Center for the Arts/Cape Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. - Dallas Black Dance Theatre seeks Executive Director
Organization
Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT), based in Dallas, Texas, is dedicated to creating and producing contemporary modern dance at the highest level of artistic excellence through performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and communities. Founded in 1976 by Ann M. Williams, following the establishment of the Dallas Black Dance Academy in 1973, DBDT was born from a powerful vision: to inspire underrepresented youth, expand access to dance as an art form, and serve as a professional role model for Black dancers. Today, DBDT serves ever-expanding national and global audiences while employing a diverse, multi-ethnic company of artists, presenting work across multiple venues within the Dallas area, including the Dee & Charles Wyly Theatre (Main Company, 551 seats), Moody Performance Hall (Encore!, 750 seats), The Majestic Theatre (Espresso Nutcracker, 1,704 seats), and the Latino Cultural Center (Academy Recital, 300 seats).
Entering its 50th year as the oldest continuously operating professional dance company in Texas and Dallas, DBDT is a $4 million organization that presents a rich and varied repertory, including modern dance, ballet, jazz, and culturally rooted works by nationally and internationally acclaimed choreographers. Over its history, DBDT has reached more than five million arts patrons and three million children worldwide, currently engaging approximately 50,000 K–12 students annually through performances and educational initiatives. These efforts reinforce DBDT’s long-standing commitment to artistic excellence, cultural connection, and broad community impact.
To support artistic development and meet growing demand, DBDT expanded its organizational structure with the launch of DBDT: Encore! in 2000 as its second performing company. This ensemble of classically trained dancers from across the country presents an annual season at the Moody Performance Hall. Complementing the DBDT’s two companies, the Dallas Black Dance Academy provides comprehensive dance education for students ages four and up, offering multiple levels of ballet, jazz, tap, and other disciplines and training more than 550 students each week at the DBDT Studios.
DBDT has been headquartered since 2008 at its permanent home in the Dallas Arts District, a renovated historic Moorland YMCA building that now houses rehearsal studios, classrooms, and administrative offices. DBDT has historically served on the board of the Dallas Arts District. DBDT’s artistic achievements have earned significant recognition, including designation as an American Masterpiece Touring Artist by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Texas Medal of Arts. Known equally for innovation, DBDT pioneered paid virtual performances during the COVID-19 pandemic, reaching audiences in more than 30 countries. As a resident company of the AT&T Performing Arts Center, DBDT now serves approximately 125,000 people annually, continuing Ann Williams’ legacy while embracing new opportunities to inspire and connect with audiences worldwide.
DBDT has a 28-member board of directors led by Board Chairman and President Jack Skinner. The executive director oversees an administrative staff of 17, including the managing director, director of facilities and operations, director of marketing and public relations, director of administration and board liaison, and senior director of development. For the year ending May 31, 2026, DBDT expects a total revenue of $4.2 million, including 79% from contributed sources (including individual donors, events, foundations, corporations, grants, and government), and 21% from earned revenue (season performances, touring, and Academy).
Sources: edited from dbdt.com; propublica.org
Community
Situated on the ancestral lands of the Wichita, Tawakoni, and other Caddoan-speaking tribes, Dallas, Texas, is home to approximately 1.3 million residents and anchors one of the nation’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions. The Dallas–Fort Worth–Arlington metroplex, with more than 7.7 million people, is the fourth largest in the United States and is known for its economic vitality, cultural diversity, and strong civic and philanthropic leadership. The region offers a high quality of life, combining a dynamic urban core with accessible neighborhoods, strong schools, and a cost of living that remains comparatively affordable among major U.S. cities.
Arts and culture are central to Dallas’s identity and civic life. The Dallas Arts District, the largest contiguous urban arts district in the United States, is home to world-class institutions including the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and Dallas Theater Center. The city supports a robust ecosystem of artists, cultural organizations, and arts education initiatives, complemented by strong philanthropic investment and community engagement. Together, these qualities make Dallas and North Texas an appealing place to live and lead, particularly for those drawn to creativity, cultural impact, and the opportunity to shape a rapidly evolving city.
The Arts District was established more than 40 years ago with the bold vision that arts and culture would play a central role in shaping Dallas’s growth and identity, and that vision has proven transformative. Since 2018, the district has expanded its footprint and vibrancy with the opening of a luxury hotel and two high-rise residential developments, further integrating arts, hospitality, and urban living into a dynamic, walkable environment. These additions have strengthened the Dallas Arts District as both a cultural destination and a thriving mixed-use neighborhood, drawing residents, visitors, and businesses into its creative core. Today, the Dallas Arts District stands not only as a symbol of sustained civic investment in the arts but also as a powerful example of how cultural infrastructure can anchor economic development, community engagement, and long-term urban vitality.
Sources: visitdallas.com/arts; dallasartsdistrict.org; census.gov
Position Summary
The Executive Director of the Dallas Black Dance Theatre will provide bold, strategic leadership to strengthen financial stability and advance DBDT’s artistic excellence, educational impact, and community engagement. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will work in close partnership with the Artistic Director to steward DBDT’s legacy while positioning the organization for sustained growth, innovation, and expanded visibility.
The Executive Director will hold shared responsibility along with the Artistic Director for organizational leadership to ensure the overall health of the organization. The Executive Director is responsible for operational leadership, financial oversight, revenue growth, external relations, and administrative management. Serving as DBDT’s primary ambassador and spokesperson, this individual will cultivate strong relationships with the Board, staff, artists, donors, civic leaders, and community stakeholders. Through transparent communication, disciplined planning, and values-driven decision-making, the Executive Director will guide DBDT’s long-term strategy and ensure its continued relevance and impact.
Roles and Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
• Develop and execute a long-term strategic plan aligned with the mission of DBDT in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Identify and develop strategic partnerships to strengthen DBDT’s visibility and reputation locally, nationally, and internationally.
• Foster a culture of innovation, inclusivity, collaboration, artistic excellence, and accountability.
• Support strategic decision-making that inspires a business-oriented, professional, and purposeful environment throughout DBDT.
• Embrace other strategic leadership responsibilities as needed.Financial and Operational Management
• Provide oversight and management of all financial operations to ensure fiscal integrity, stability, and sustainability while incorporating nonprofit and dance industry best practices.
• Work closely with the finance committee, staff, and auditors to develop and monitor annual budgets according to current laws and regulations.
• Oversee the work of the accounting staff to ensure the preparation of timely financial reports for Board review and annual financial audits, while maintaining knowledge of daily cash flow and finances.
• Ensure that DBDT’s assets, including its documents and records of activity, are maintained through a documented and secure system of internal controls.
• Embrace other financial and operational management responsibilities as needed.Development and Fundraising
• Serve as the chief fundraising liaison by initiating, cultivating, and stewarding relationships with all major donors, including foundations, corporations, government funding agencies, and individuals.
• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of all fundraising and development efforts in collaboration with the Development Director and members of the DBDT Board of Directors.
• Develop, secure, and expand diversified revenue streams.
• Establish and grow an endowment fund to position DBDT for financial stability.
• Represent DBDT at community, philanthropic, and arts sector events to expand its funding base.
• Embrace other development and fundraising responsibilities as needed.Board and Labor Relations and Governance
• Serve as primary liaison between the Board of Directors and the organization’s management team by providing reports and updates on staff and current work during each Board meeting.
• Support effective Board governance by providing timely and transparent communication to enable all members to exercise their full governance and service potential.
• Assist with the identification, recruitment, and orientation of new board members.
• Collaborate with the Artistic Director to ensure compliance with all collective bargaining agreements.
• Negotiate, interpret, and provide oversight to union contracts in coordination with legal counsel and DBDT human resources.
• Foster a respectful, inclusive, and transparent workplace culture that supports all employees.
• Embrace other Board and labor relations and governance responsibilities as needed.Artistic and Program Collaboration
• Partner with the Artistic Director to align programming with DBDT’s mission and audience development goals while balancing operational and financial priorities of the organization.
• Advocate for artistic excellence and support community outreach and educational programs that expand access to dance and the arts.
• Encourage creative partnerships with other cultural and community organizations.
• Embrace other artistic and program collaboration responsibilities as needed.External Relations, Marketing, and Communications
• Function as the organizational spokesperson for DBDT, representing its values and mission across diverse platforms.
• Foster relationships with civic leaders, educational institutions, and cultural partners.
• Act as a liaison to the Dallas African American community.
• Advocate for the role of dance and artistic excellence in the broader arts ecosystem.
• Oversee all aspects of the organization’s external communications, marketing strategies, and public relations, adjusting to expand reach and increase visibility as needed.
• Embrace other external relations, marketing, and communications responsibilities as needed.Organizational Leadership and Culture
• Contribute to a healthy, equitable, and collaborative workplace, in collaboration with the Artistic Director, by maintaining a climate that attracts, retains, and motivates capable team members.
• Direct and supervise Director-level staff, ensuring that all departments function cohesively and effectively toward shared goals.
• Use financial controls to support accountability and ensure a healthy, equitable culture across DBDT.
• Implement policies and procedures that reflect DBDT’s commitment to multiculturalism, equity, and inclusion.
• Promote professional development and staff retention through strong internal leadership.
• Oversee human resources management strategies, plans, and all related hire-to-retire policies and procedures.
• Partner with the Board Human Resources committee and the Artistic Director to implement policies and procedures.
• Embrace other organizational leadership and culture responsibilities as needed.Traits and Characteristics
A collaborative, visionary, and transparent leader, the Executive Director will be recognized for their ability to drive transformation and action that advances the impact of the Dallas Black Dance Theatre. An effective communicator and bridge builder, the Executive Director will excel in cultivating relationships across many types of constituents and groups. The Executive Director will value flexibility and innovation, value team and culture building, and possess a deep awareness of issues and trends impacting the dance sector regionally and nationally.
Other key competencies include the following:
• Leadership & Personal Accountability – The clarity to use positional and relational influence to organize people to pursue a collective vision, managed with a sense of purpose and direction.
• Diplomacy & Customer Focus – The integrity to uphold the highest ethical standards while exhibiting tact, supporting members of the DBDT and Dallas communities.
• Time and Priority Management & Teamwork – The ability to work within a team to prioritize, manage, monitor, and complete multiple complex tasks, mobilize wide-ranging resources, and deliver to drive outcomes within allotted time frames.
• Conceptual Thinking – The dexterity to analyze DBDT’s current capacities, patterns, and/or abstract concepts to formulate connections and new insights.Qualifications
A minimum of 10 years of senior executive leadership experience in a comparable senior role in the nonprofit sector is required. Strong business acumen, visionary leadership, and a demonstrated ability to partner effectively with nonprofit boards and diverse stakeholders are essential. Broad knowledge of nonprofit management, including fundraising, finance, marketing and communications, and human resources, is required, along with the capacity to navigate complex, political, and dynamic civic environments. A proven record of building, motivating, and mentoring high-performing teams is crucial. Excellent written and oral communication skills, along with strong project management capabilities, are expected and grounded in values of collaboration, inclusion, integrity, and authenticity. Experience working with unionized staff and collective bargaining agreements is strongly valued. A bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree in arts administration, business, or a related field is preferred.
Compensation and Benefits
DBDT provides a competitive and equitable compensation package with an estimated base salary in the range of $160,000 to $200,000. Benefits include employer-paid medical coverage at 90% of the premium and 100% employer-paid life insurance (including a $10,000 policy), along with options for employee-paid dental, vision, and supplemental life insurance. DBDT also offers a Flexible Spending Account and a 100% match, up to 3% of annual salary on employee contributions to an IRA retirement plan. Additional benefits include 10 paid federal holidays, a fully paid week off between Christmas and New Year’s, standard PTO for sick, personal, and bereavement leave, one week of paid vacation after one year of service, and a generous $5,000 annual professional development stipend. Relocation assistance will be provided to candidates if needed.
Applications and Inquiries
To submit a cover letter and resume with a summary of demonstrable accomplishments (electronic submissions preferred), please visit https://artsconsulting.com/opensearches/dallas-black-dance-theatre-seeks-executive-director/
Dallas Black Dance Theatre has adopted a core value system that embraces all cultures to
strengthen the organization by working together for a common purpose that delivers
transformative experiences for all.With no exclusions, Dallas Black Dance Theatre offers services to the entire population,
regardless of race, age, or circumstance. Since its founding, DBDT’s innovative approach to
equity, diversity, and inclusion has been based on a dedicated commitment to lead by
example and actively implement change rather than only conceptualize results. Established
by its Board of Directors, this initiative is fulfilled through the organization’s mission to
bridge cultures, reach diverse communities, and encompass ever-expanding global
audiences. - The Supreme Court just unleashed the Era of Radioactive Artist IPAuthorship used to be a status granted by an act of creation. Now it will be a status you will have to defend through paperwork. We have moved from the era of the romantic “lone genius” to the era of the administrative author who will need to “prove” the machine didn’t make it.
- Good Morning
The Live Nation antitrust trial opens today, and the stakes for the music industry are enormous — a possible breakup of the company that has dominated live entertainment for 16 years (The New York Times). It’s one of several stories today about who gets to control the cultural machinery. David Ellison’s Paramount just pulled off the Warner acquisition — a company five times its size — leaving Hollywood stunned (The Wall Street Journal). And the AI-and-data angle of that deal is the part worth watching closely (NPR).
New York has a new culture commissioner — Diya Vij, a curator with deep roots at Creative Time and the High Line, taking over at a tense economic moment (Hyperallergic). In Berlin, the Berlinale’s troubles are raising a harder question: whether Germany’s approach to permissible speech has made it impossible to run major cultural events there (The New York Times). And the Writers Guild Awards have been cancelled outright, with 115 WGA staffers still on strike (The Wrap).
All of our stories below.
- Too Many Basket Weavers?
Ontario is one of the provinces to see the highest economic impact from the sector, according to the report. – The Conversation
THEATRE
VISUAL
- A Conspiracy Theory That A Jim Carrey Doppelganger Picked Up His Honorary Cesar Is Making The Rounds In France
This is where we are with the internet now: The man in charge of the Césars (the “French Oscars”) had to say, ““From the outset, he was extremely touched by the Academy’s invitation. … He worked on his speech in French for months.”- The Guardian (UK)
- In A Time Of Lies, Sudden Wars, And AI Hallucinations, We Desperately Need Live Performance
“The performing arts, with their warm embrace of subjectivity, might not seem the most likely corrective amid this crisis. But they have much to teach us about the notion of truth.” – The New York Times
- “Moral Self-Defense” And The Uses of Public Shaming
“There are plenty of self-serving, self-aggrandizing, morally objectionable reasons for why people participate in public shaming. Nevertheless, the concept of moral self-defence reminds us that our self-respect, our social identities, and our status in our communities are vital.” – Psyche
- The Qualities Of Ethics Required For Good Government
In a world increasingly defined by distance, between citizen and state, between policy and experience, between law and justice, Rammohun Roy offers a reminder that good government is not only a matter of laws or statistics. It is a matter of presence. – Aeon
- Just What/Where Is The Leisure Class?
We need to work, because survival demands it, and we need to rest, because work is tiring, but are those two possibilities really exhaustive? – Liberties Journal
