Literary Manager

POSITION:                           Literary Manager

REPORTS TO:                     Artistic Director

DEPARTMENT:                   Artistic

CLASSIFICATION:              Year-Round, Full-time, Exempt

SALARY:                               $50,000 - $55, 000

OVERVIEW

The Literary Manager is an integral member of CPH’s artistic team primarily responsible for reading plays; servings as dramaturg or supervising dramaturgical efforts for each production; maintaining relationships with licensing agencies; securing and holding rights for shows; and writing literary pieces for the institution. This role requires a deep understanding of contemporary and classical theater, a passion for nurturing new talent, a commitment to promoting diverse voices, and a finger on the pulse of what is happening nationally in new play development.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

The Literary Manager will work closely with the Artistic Director, playwrights, directors, and other personnel to ensure the highest standards of excellence. Along with administrative duties, this role will spearhead script selection and new play development, support internal and external engagement opportunities, and support writing assignments for Artistic Director as needed. The Literary Manager will also be responsible for (but not limited to) the follow key responsibilities:

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with the Artistic Director and other team members to plan the theater’s season, ensuring a balanced and diverse selection of productions.
• Lead the process of reading, evaluating, and selecting scripts for CPH initiatives, including oversight of contracted readers.
• Develop relationships with playwrights, agents, licensing companies, and other theatre companies to identify new and emerging talent.
• Oversee workshops, readings, and development programs for new works. Plan and host playwright residencies, including the annual New Ground Festival, in tandem with Director of Production and Director of Artistic Engagement.
• Provide dramaturgical support and feedback to playwrights during the development process and lead the artists participating in the CPH Playwrights’ Unit.
• Support the creation and dissemination of sizzle sheets each season, developed by members of the artistic and marketing teams.
• Develop and host Creative Conversations with Artistic Director for each production.
• Provide dramaturgical support for up to 2 productions, including research, script analysis, and the preparation of materials for actors and production teams. Hire and supervise guest dramaturgs during the season.
• Develop literary materials for theatre productions: web content, playbill articles, lobby displays, etc.
• Support development team with grant writing proposals and other fundraising activities related to new play development and literary programs.
• Manage the literary department’s budget, keep records of submissions and correspondence, serve as CPH’s liaison with the Archives, and supervise literary team members.
• Attend department and Board meetings, interdepartmental committees, as assigned.

DESIRED SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Strong knowledge of contemporary and classical theater, as well as current trends in playwriting and production.
• Excellent writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Strong organizational and project management skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Passion for theater and a commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive artistic voices.
• Bachelor’s degree in Theater, English, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a literary or dramaturgical role, preferably in a regional theater setting.

 Some nights and weekends are required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities the ability to perform the assigned and essential functions.

BENEFITS: CPH offers a comprehensive benefits package, including group health insurance, dental and vision plans, paid vacation, holidays, and the opportunity to participate in a 401(K) plan. Parking is available at the employee's cost.

CPH is on an active and ongoing journey to becoming an anti-racist organization, fostering, and sustaining a culture that values community, social justice, and equity. All CPH employees must commit to training in understanding and embracing and promoting anti-racism, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Cleveland Play House is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws

Salary : $50,000 - $55,000