Theatre Manager

Title: Theatre Manager

Agency: Virginia Peninsula Community College

Location: Hampton - 650

FLSA: Exempt

Hiring Range: $65,000-$75,000

Full Time or Part Time: Full Time

Additional Detail

Job Description:

The search will remain open until the position is filled; however, to be considered for the initial screening, candidates should submit a complete application package by December 2, 2024.


Virginia Peninsula Community College is a two-year institution of higher education established as a part of a statewide system of community colleges. It primarily serves the residents of the cities of Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg, and the counties of James City and York.

Virginia Peninsula Community College changes lives, empowers students to succeed, and enhances the social and economic vitality of the region through high-quality education and workforce training, excellent service, and innovative partnerships.

The Theatre Manager is responsible for effective operation and management of a multi-use theatre facility and the planning and execution of college events, in-house productions, and guest/touring performances. Duties include overseeing Front of House operations in coordination with a volunteer workforce; coordinating all aspects of production logistics to include event and rehearsal scheduling; facility and production resource budgeting and purchasing; coordinating load-ins and strike; and managing technical aspects directly or through contracted teams for set lighting and building, audio / visual production, and scene shop management.

Reporting directly to the Office of the President during the first 12-24 months, the Theatre Manager will facilitate the reopening, organization, and revitalization of VPCC’s newly rebuilt theatre in a manner that is consistent with the College’s mission, vision, and strategic plan. The theater, with seating for 494 patrons, a rehearsal room, a scene shop, four dressing rooms, and a reception lobby, is a college resource designed primarily to serve the students, faculty, staff, and the greater community.

After this initial period if revitalization, theater operations will be reorganized to report through a Vice President. Future plans may include the development of a Performing Arts academic program.

• Multiple years of experience in the management of theater or performance-based productions, including an understanding of technical aspects such as lighting execution, sound execution, and stagecraft.
• Experience with organizing and administrating events, programs, or performances on a stage or community-based venue.
• Experience working with fine and performing artists and the public to manage related activities.

• Working knowledge of techniques and methods (computerized and manual) of stage, lighting, projection, and sounds installation and operation for staging college events and theatrical performances.
• Working knowledge of electronics, stage equipment and rigging, and audio-visual media.
• Working knowledge of CAD, Vectorworks, and QLab or other sound operation software.
• Working knowledge of theatrical carpentry, set, and lighting design.
• Working knowledge of costume and/or sound design.
• Thorough knowledge of front-of-house and ticketing operations and procedures.
• General knowledge of the safe operation and maintenance of technical theater tools and equipment.
• Thorough knowledge of business management and fiscal practices.
• Thorough knowledge of managerial and supervisory styles and techniques.
• Thorough knowledge of principles and methods for promoting programs and services.
• General knowledge and use of proper lifting techniques.

• Demonstrated application of time management skills with a proven ability to plan, coordinate, prioritize, and effectively execute multiple initiatives, programs, and events, as well as meet established deadlines.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, focusing on thoroughness and quality.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills using tact, patience, and courtesy with the ability to interact and work with a diverse multi-disciplinary team.
• Demonstrated skills in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with students, staff, faculty, and the public.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including presentation skills.
• Outstanding leadership and management skills.
• Strategic planning and analytical problem-solving skills.
• Effective decision-making skills based on business principles.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or similar software.

• Ability to work independently or in a team environment with minimal supervision.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships within the local arts community.
• Ability to plan, organize, and supervise all aspects of a working theater.
• Ability to establish methods and procedures for acquiring, installing, testing, operating, or repairing machinery or technology systems.
• Ability to maintain public calendar.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule with holiday, evening, and weekend work.
• Ability to prioritize work in a multitasking environment, manage time, and be adaptable to changing needs and frequent interruptions.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate when appropriate.
• Ability to interact successfully with students, colleagues, college partners, and others with courtesy and respect.
• Ability to adjust to changing priorities, demands, and timelines.
• Ability to adapt to challenges and foster continuous improvements.
• Ability to learn, interpret, and apply college policy, procedure, and practice to everyday situations.

• Evidence of scenic and/or lighting designs (Portfolio submission optional).
• Evidence of drafting skills/lighting design (Portfolio submission optional).
• ETCP Rigger-Theatre Certificate desirable.
• USITT eSet certificates of a variety of types.
• Experience working in an academic theater.