Manager, Theater Programming

About The Kennedy Center

“I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy

The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra. 

At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law. 

Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts. 

Why Join Us

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits to all full-time employees including: 

• Staff offers for discount tickets
• Retirement plan with organization matching (after 1 year of employment)
• Qualifying employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• Commuter programs including pre-tax options for discounted parking and SmartBenefits (WMATA)
• Annual Leave, Sick Leave, and Personal Days available immediately upon hire
• 11 paid holidays per year 
• Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits with FSA and HSA options, and paid FMLA
• Flexible work arrangements
• We like to have fun! Check out the Kennedy Center National Dance Day 2022 staff video!

Job Description

The Manager, Theater Programming works with VP & Executive Producer of Theater to manage the operations of the department’s presentations and self-produced shows. In addition to managing budgets and contracts, they will serve as the primary point of contact for production logistics and coordination with internal and external stakeholders.

The Manager must be able to make decisions and exercise discretion in order to prioritize assignments and work under pressure, as many projects are time sensitive and involve concurrent deadlines. 

Key Responsibilities

• Manages logistics, under the guidance of the VP,  for 50% of all Theater Programming presentations and productions, working with external agencies, communicating with artists and agents, and working with internal staff to coordinate education, special events and legal issues. Serves in many similar capacities as a  General Manager for assigned produced theatrical productions including contracting creative teams, stage management, and artists. Duties include but are not limited to:
  • • Contracting and maintaining of weekly financials and budgets
    • Management of internal booking calendar and ArtsVision for current and upcoming season of shows;
    • Liaising with company management, creative teams, Kennedy Center Booking, and Kennedy Center Production, to coordinate logistics for space management (onsite and offsite), production schedules and calendars, and production requirements for rehearsals and performances;
    • Management of payroll for all show employees;
    • Oversight of all payments as outlined in contracts and agreements;
    • Insures smooth flow of all communications

• Work with Center’s Marketing, PR, and Development departments to advance presented and produced Theater programs.
• Works with Coordinator on programming projects. Manages logistical details for approximately 200 performances or ancillary events per season
• Research and evaluate trends and new programming ideas.   Review institutional data to help direct programming.
• Reads scripts or other submitted materials on new plays and evaluate for artistic merit and production feasibility.
• Other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications

• A minimum of 5 – 8 years experience working in the Arts, in the capacity of Associate Producer/Associate General Manager, and/or Marketing or Booking agent.  Must have familiarity with theater related budgets, numbers, contracts, etc.
• Bachelor of Arts or Science, Masters, or other education/experience in arts management
• Prior experience working in a non-profit arts institution and/or Broadway/theatrical office.
• Detail oriented, knowledge of Excel and accounting systems, and ability to prioritize between multiple job responsibilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and ability to work with various levels at the Center.
• Ability to work well with artists, booking managers and agents.