Director of Programming

POSITION: Director of Programming

TYPE: Full-time, exempt, on-site

SCHEDULE: 40 hours per week, frequent evenings and weekends required

REPORTS TO: Executive Director

About The Colonial Theatre

The Colonial Theatre is the home of arts, film, music and culture in New Hampshire’s North Country. Located in the heart of The White Mountains in Bethlehem, New Hampshire, the historic Colonial Theatre is one of the oldest continuously operated movie theaters in the country. When The Colonial opened its doors in 1915, the era of the Grand Hotels was in full swing and Bethlehem was a premier destination resort. Because of its sophisticated clientele The Colonial quickly became a venue for studios to test market their films. With its rich history The Colonial remains one of the remaining links to the era of the Grand Hotels as well as a significant chapter in the history of the film industry.

Now, after a series of renovations and improvements, the 300-seat Colonial offers state-of-the-art digital projection and surround sound for independent and world cinema, hosts Grammy award-winning performing artists, family entertainment, and community events from May through October—all without losing the intimate charm of a vintage theater.

The Colonial Theatre is on New Hampshire Registry of Historic Places and was named “Best Vintage Movie Theatre” by Yankee Magazine.

VALUES

We believe…

• relevant arts and cultural programming make a positive difference in creating a sense of belonging, fellowship, and community that enriches all;
• access to different perspectives gives us deeper understanding of the world in which we live and helps us see more clearly what unites us as well as what makes us each unique;
• responsible stewardship and partnerships enable us to leave a lasting legacy of cultural enrichment.

VISION STATEMENT

A vibrant, engaged and enriched community through arts & culture.

MISSION STATEMENT

Inspire and invite participation in the cultural conversation.

GENERAL

The Colonial Theatre seeks a collaborative and community-oriented Director of Programming to conceive, develop, and implement the artistic focus of the organization in service of the North Country community. In collaboration with the Executive Director, the Director of Programming makes major decisions about the ongoing development of the The Colonial’s mission to inspire and invite participation in the cultural conversation by presenting quality live music and performing arts, film, and family programming.

RESPONSIBILITES

Program Planning

• Lead a collaborative process of live performance and film season selection with the Executive Director and Director of Marketing and Communications that honors community and audience feedback, attunes to industry trends, and maintains artistic excellence.
• Oversee the scheduling, contracting, and planning of performances and films in collaboration with live events booker and film booker.
• With the Executive Director, refine and develop new programming to engage untapped audiences.
• Collaborate with the Director of Marketing and Communications to develop assets and language to describe visiting artists and films.

Community Engagement

• Develop cultural collaborations and programmatic partnerships with other arts and community nonprofits.
• Act as a spokesperson for the organization's artistic purpose at Colonial events and in the community, including public speaking opportunities.

Administration, Event Planning & Supervision

• Oversee administration for all programming including box office and attendance reports, artist load-in/load-out and hospitality, and educational programming logistics.
• Build and maintain event listings in The Colonial’s ticketing system (Thundertix)
• Supervise, schedule, and recruit volunteer event staff.
• Create, edit, and upload preview video playlists and DCP film files onto the projection server.
• Establish a working familiarity with major production equipment: movie projector, sound mixing board, light board, etc.
• Attend all live events, and attend/introduce special film events.

QUALIFICATIONS

5+ years of experience in cultural and event planning, or a similar field in the arts and culture sector is required. Advanced degrees may count toward experience. To be successful in this role, applicant should also have:

• Excellent organization, time management, creativity, attention to detail, and ability to work independently
• Strong networking, presentation, and relationship-building expertise.
• Strong ability to receive, respect, and act thoughtfully on suggestions and criticism from colleagues and community members.
• High level of computer literacy, including familiarity with Microsoft Office, Dropbox, Google Suite or similar co-working tools.
• Knowledge of quality live music and film.
• Familiarity with the booking, contracting and/or advancement process for live performing artists is a plus.
• Familiarity with database management systems (e.g. ticketing, POS, and/or CRMs)
• Collaborative spirit, openness, sense of humor, ability to collaborate with a cross-functional team, passion for The Colonial’s mission, and ability to inspire others to participate are all appreciated
• Reliable transportation

Candidates who do not fulfill every qualification but possess transferrable skills and an excellent ability to learn and pick up new skills are encouraged to apply.