Theater Programming Coordinator

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 2023 staff video!

Job Description

The Theater Programming Coordinator will work with the Managers to support the Theater Producing and Programming office in tasks related to artist services and department bookkeeping. The ideal candidate will bring an eagerness to participate in the business of performance arts and an eagerness to take initiative.  

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as administrative coordinator for the department, answering department inquiries, managing house seats books and orders, routing all internal and external materials for approval, and maintaining all office calendars, files, and archives as necessary.
• Manage travel, accommodations and ground transportation for visiting artists as part of co-presentations or produced work. Create itineraries for artists. Negotiate with area hotels to secure the best rate available for KC departments or artists.
• Coordinate all contract signatures, payments, and payroll for department presentations and productions
• Handle reimbursement for travel expenses turned in by artists and KC staff.  Handle all invoice processing for hospitality, hotel, travel, and miscellaneous department expenses as needed.
• Provide project support for Kennedy Center Theater Programming and manage season handbooks, contact sheets, and collateral
• Other duties as assigned

Key Qualifications

• Minimum of two years’ work experience in a related field.  
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience preferred
• Expert level written communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work as a team player as well as the ability to work independently to both anticipate the SVP’s needs and pre-empt problems
• Knowledge of and interest in the performing arts
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and Power Point), Adobe Acrobat, and Social Media web platforms 
• Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area