Artistic Director
/Organization:
The Improv Centre
Deadline:
August 4, 2025 at 5:00 PM PDT
Organization Description:
The Vancouver Improv Centre Society (The Improv Centre) is one of Vancouver’s leading and best-known improv theatre companies. The Improv Centre (TIC) was originally established as The Vancouver TheatreSports League in 1981. TIC’s purpose is to promote, develop, maintain, and present improvisational theatre productions and presentations to local and visiting audiences in Vancouver. We are a proud member of the International Theatresports™ Institute (ITI). Our administrative office and 186-seat theatre are located on Granville Island.
The Improv Centre is devoted to excellence in the development and presentation of both short-form and long-form improv comedy theatre. Our style is shaped by committed, character-driven, theatrical storytelling. We showcase the vibrant and exciting team-on-team format of Theatresports™ to thousands of guests every year, and we also develop and present unique, engaging, and hilarious show formats for year-round programming. We offer single-session and progressive educational programs throughout the year, as well as private shows and events, master classes, free public workshops, and an annual international improv showcase, THE HEAT.
Website:
http://theimprovcentre.ca/
Job Description:
Overview:
Reporting to the Managing Director (MD), the Artistic Director (AD) leads the organization in all matters that support and sustain TIC’s artistic and programming goals. The AD is responsible for shaping, communicating, and implementing the artistic vision of TIC; overseeing the continued development of TIC’s ensemble; overseeing TIC’s diversity, equity, and inclusivity objectives; and making major decisions regarding the hiring and ongoing professional development of artistic staff.
The AD supervises a team that includes the Technical Director, Artistic Associate, DEI/Education Coordinator, and administrative staff. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to the prominence and sustainability of TIC as a leading practitioner of the improv art form in Canada.
Responsibilities:
Artistic Leadership
Artistically lead the organization through TIC's core values: integrity; diversity, equity & inclusivity; safety; and community focus
Help cultivate an anti-racist, gender-progressive, culturally aware, anti-discrimination, inclusive organizational culture and environment, working with the DEI Coordinator on specific initiatives
Develop and communicate a clear artistic statement/vision
Foster strategic relationships with other artistic entities locally and internationally
Represent TIC publicly and within the arts sector; proactively address internal and external challenges to protect the organization’s interests
Support Board-led strategic planning (together with the MD)
Ensemble Forming & Growth
Design and implement ensemble formation processes (e.g., auditions, house team development) and develop casting values
Oversee planning, delivery, and coordination of ensemble rehearsals and professional development workshops
Oversee the provision of performer feedback and cast notes aligned with artistic values and vision
Programming
Develop and communicate programming aligned with TIC’s values and artistic excellence, including regular and special events
Create and direct small and large format programming
Encourage development of new shows and formats from within the Ensemble
Manage show lifecycle (creation, revision, rehearsal, pre-production, post-show evaluation)
Oversee public training and education curriculum and instructor hiring (with the Education Coordinator)
Responsible for all casting and substitute casting, including for shows, events, and training
Collaborate with the Marketing department to guide and support artistic aspects of promotional efforts
Administration
Provide regular reports to the MD and Finance Director, including for Board presentations
Responsible for budgeting, tracking, and forecasting for the artistic department
Manage TIC’s venue calendar with the Technical Director
Qualifications:
Strong aptitude for verbal and written communication, presentation, and relationship development
Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
Ability to work both collaboratively and independently
Ability to problem solve under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances
A passion for the arts and the non-profit sector
Knowledge of and willingness to adhere to best practices in HR, management, and governance
How to Apply:
Apply with your cover letter and resume to:
md@theimprovcentre.ca
Deadline: August 4, 2025 at 5:00 PM PDT
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Remuneration:
$33–$36 per hour (depending on experience)
Average of 25–30 hours per week
Includes comprehensive health benefits package and employee assistance program
Region:
Metro Vancouver
Job Status:
Part Time, Contract
Contact Name:
The Improv Centre
Contact Email:
md@theimprovcentre.ca
