An Artistic Director is a key leadership role, responsible for shaping the artistic vision of a company and/or venue. They will oversee the programme for the theatre, often direct shows, as well as manage funding, budgets and staff, sometimes alongside an Executive Director.
What are the main responsibilities of an Artistic Director?
- Create the artistic vision of the company or venue
- Create a programme; choose and/or direct the shows that will be performed in the theatre
- Hiring of staff; Directors, Actors, Stage Managers, Designers etc
- Lead a team
- Read and select scripts
- Discuss the budget of the theatre and funding with the Executive Director
- Represent the theatre at events, public and social appearances
- Create and innovate the principles and aims of the theatre
What qualifications do I need to be an Artistic Director?
While you do not need a degree for this role, here are some useful subjects and courses that you can study to gain knowledge and experience:
- Directing
- Producing
- Creative Arts
- Theatre Management
- Theatre Studies
- Creative Management
Search theatre training courses to help you get into theatre here
What skills do I need to be an Artistic Director?
- Experience in directing and producing (you can build these over time)
- Ability to work under pressure
- Artistic vision
- Leadership and people skills
- Communication skills
- Risk taking
- Excellent communication skills
- Decision making
- Management skills
- Creativity
- Strong maths ability for budgets and logistics
- Networking skills
- Analysing and critical thinking
What does a career in artistic directing look like?
There’s not a one-way path to becoming an Artistic Director, however, having previous experience of producing, directing and creating new work is ideal. Working in any role for a theatre venue or company can also be a good way to learn about this role and work towards it. While most Artistic Directors have a background in directing, it is not the only path. Many Actors, Producers and Writers have also gone on to become successful Artistic Directors.
Read this job description for Sherman Theatre’s Artistic Director to learn more.
How much does an Artistic Director earn?
As a top leadership role, pay for an Artistic Director can range anywhere from £40k - £100k+* depending on the theatre and your personal experience. This role will often be PAYE, meaning you are a paid member of staff with employee benefits.
*The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with charities or community theatre paying less.
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
References:
https://www.mgcfutures.com/artistic-director/
Updated: 13th Aug 2026
