Industry Pro Newsletter: Blocker to Audible, Ezra Ezzard New Managing Director at Crossroads Theatre

In California, the continued momentum of the labor movement from last year continues on as dates are now set for the union election at Disneyland Resort in California. Job shuffles continue in key leadership positions, and Mark Morris Dance Group shows that dancers are athletes as part of a new show on ESPN+.

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Employment Opportunity

Director of Operations - Fords Theatre

Ford’s Theatre Society is hiring a Director of Operations to join its team. The position is full-time and based in Washington, DC.

Industry Trends

Union Election for 1,700 Disney Character Parade Performers to Take Place This Month

The NLRB election is scheduled for May 15-18 for the 1,700 character and parade performers at Disneyland Resort in California. The performers are seeking representation by Actors Equity Association.

Colleen Dilenschneider: Factors That Improve the Welcoming Experience

The article explores factors contributing to a positive welcoming experience for cultural institution visitors. It highlights the significance of staff friendliness, accessibility, and clear communication in shaping visitor perceptions. Understanding and optimizing these factors can enhance visitor satisfaction and foster repeat attendance, ultimately contributing to the long-term success of cultural organizations.

Broadway/New York

Nathan Lane, André Bishop to be Honored at the 68th Annual Drama Desk Awards

Nathan Lane and André Bishop are set to be honored at the upcoming 68th Annual Drama Desk Awards. The event celebrates outstanding achievements in New York theater. Lane and Bishop will receive special recognition for their contributions to the theater community and their impactful careers.

Shoshanna Bean, Kenny Ortega, David Hyde Pierce to Join Chita Rivera Awards

Shoshanna Bean, Kenny Ortega, and David Hyde Pierce are announced as special guests for the Chita Rivera Awards. The awards ceremony honors excellence in dance and choreography on Broadway and in film. Their participation adds star power to the event and highlights the importance of dance in the performing arts.

Jeremy Blocker Joins Audible as Head of Live Creative Producing

Jeremy Blocker assumes the role of Head of Live Creative Producing at Audible. In his new position, Blocker will oversee the development and production of live theater projects for the audiobook and entertainment company. His appointment underscores Audible's commitment to expanding its presence in the theater industry.

Dance Magazine: Mark Morris Dance Group Featured on ESPN+ Show Tryouts

The show follows the tryout process for some of the most elite groups across different disciplines and niches in the world of human performance - the fifth episode of the series explores dance by following the process to become a member of the Mark Morris Dance Group.

Regional 

American Theatre: Ezra Ezzard Named Crossroads Theatre Managing Director

Ezra Ezzard is appointed as the Managing Director of Crossroads Theatre. With a background in arts administration, Ezzard brings strategic leadership and vision to the renowned Black theater company. His appointment signals a new chapter for Crossroads Theatre as it continues to champion diverse voices and storytelling.

MSN: San Diego Symphony Announces 2024-25 Season at Newly Renamed Concert Hall After $125 Million Redesign

The San Diego Symphony unveils its 2024-25 season lineup at the newly renamed concert hall following a $125 million redesign. The season promises a diverse range of performances and collaborations with renowned artists. The renovation underscores the symphony's commitment to providing exceptional musical experiences for audiences in San Diego.

International

The Guide Liverpool: Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse Theatres Reveal New Creative Director

Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse Theatres appoint Nathan Powell as the new Creative Director to lead artistic programming and initiatives. The announcement signals a fresh direction for the iconic theaters and emphasizes their commitment to artistic innovation and community engagement.

BBC: Women-Only Exhibit to Become a Bathroom to Stay Women-Only

Tasmania's Museum of Old and New Art partnered with artist Kirsha Kaechele to highlight gender differences and discrimination, but the museum was sued after denying entrance to a male identifying individual. In order to keep the exhibit Women-Only, the artist plans to transform it into a women’s restroom and a church, both of which have carve outs to restrictions on creating gender restricted spaces.

Missed our last few newsletters?

May 6, 2024 - Awards Season in Full Swing, Inflation Challenges Australian Arts Groups

As awards season gets fully underway with the Tony Award Nominations announced last week, and the Lortel Awards last night, the industry gets ready to celebrate the incredible work on the New York stage this past season - a season crowded with celebrities, big revivals, and exciting new shows. Around the globe, companies are grappling with rising costs of production and lower government funding.

April 29, 2024 - Gen Z is 'Broadway Curious', New Zealanders Continue Strong Arts Engagement

Reports from both New Zealand and the United States show that not only is participation in the arts not waning, there is a large population that holds an interest in engaging with the arts on a deeper level. With one report saying that both Gen Z and Millenials are ‘Broadway curious’, the question emerges of how best to reach these audiences with the right information and prices that can turn them from being curious to being regular attendees.

April 22, 2024 - Disneyland Parade and Character Performers Seek Union Protections
Charleston Stage has a new Managing Director, and Dallas Theater Center has a new interim Artistic Director. Along with these movements of the regional leadership carousel, Seattle Opera has introduced a new Artistic Ambassador, a role designed to help bridge the gap between the stage and the community, and foster new audiences for an art form that is often seen as having a high barrier to entry.

BroadwayWorld Resources

BroadwayWorld Stage Mag - A Fully Interactive Show Program

The digital solution to your show program needs - want to see what's possible? Check out the Stage Mag's for A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder and for The Musical of Musicals (The Musical!)! Then start building your own at stagemag.broadwayworld.com.

Add Your Show to our Regional Events Calendar

As audiences get set to return to in-person performances, and as your company works to market your own return to the stage, make sure you've got your upcoming shows in our regional events calendars. Listings are free of charge, with boosting options available. Get your show listed now

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