Diversionary Theatre Now Searching for Executive Artistic Director

In October, 2013 Diversionary Theatre announced that its Executive Director was stepping down. At that time the Board of Directors took control of day-to-day operations of the theatre, and implemented a full 2014 season under the direction of Interim Executive Director and Board Treasurer Todd Nelms. This provided the Board with an opportunity to re-examine the theater's financial business model and ultimately make the decision to restructure internal staffing of the organization in order to help it evolve financially, and it is now launching a search for a new leader, with the title: "Executive Artistic Director".

Diversionary Theatre's Board of Directors has formed an esteemed search committee to help secure new leadership that can implement the theater's current mission: "to provide an inspiring and thought-provoking theatrical platform to explore complex and diverse LGBT stories, which influence the larger cultural discussion." This committee includes three DT Board Members: Mr. Nelms, Tamara Keller, and Darrell Netherton. They will be joined by six San Diego arts leaders: Marc Overton, Camille Davidson, Larry Baza, Bill Eadie, Rob Granat, and Sean Murray. This committee will help identify a qualified candidate to become DT's Executive Artistic Director, with the expectation that the Executive Artistic Director-Designate will be in place to lead the Company for the 2014-2015 season.

The Committee has been asked to identify this new leader by seeking an individual who is notably a gifted fundraiser, can articulate a clear artistic vision, displays business acumen, and performing arts and operational management experience, as well as strong leadership skills and a commitment to financial transparency. A job announcement has been compiled and released to the public on May 15th, 2014.

"This is an exciting time for Diversionary as we set out to find a new leader for the organization. We're committed to recruiting someone who can help us further our vision & mission while adapting to the changing social & financial dynamics of live theatre. I'm grateful to the search committee members who will help guide us through this process." - Matthew Thomason, DT Board President.

The projected hiring timeline for this new position is:

• Launch search announcement: May 15th, 2014
• Deadline for applications: June 30th, 2014
• Selected leader assumes position by: October 1st, 2014
• Diversionary Theatre was founded in 1986 to provide quality theatre for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities. The mission of the theatre is to produce plays with gay, lesbian and bisexual themes that portray characters in their complexity and diversity both historically and contemporarily.

Diversionary Theatre is recognized as one of San Diego's best theaters. It is one of the most vibrant showcases of theatrical talent in the city.

The goal of the theatre is to continue telling the story of the LGBT community, while providing a home and venue for the remarkable talents of the San Diego's theater professionals.

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