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Useful experience for artistic directors includes:

• directing or producing plays or films
• choreography
• other theatre or film work such as acting or writing plays.

Artistic directors may do some or all of the following:

• plan shows and performances for theatres, festivals and events
• plan budgets for theatre companies, productions, festivals and events
• plan marketing and promotion for productions, festivals and events
• develop business plans and budgets for theatre companies and festivals
• liaise with sponsors
• audition and hire designers, directors, actors, performers and technical staff as required for a production or event
• mentor and teach artists and performers
• direct or choreograph shows.

Strong competition for artistic director roles

Chances of getting a job as an artistic director are poor as the entertainment industry in New Zealand is small and considerable experience in the industry is needed for the role. Most people enter the industry through an entry-level role, such as an assistant, to gain experience and get known.

According to the Census, 45 artistic directors worked in New Zealand in 2018.

Essential to have arts experience

It is essential for artistic directors to demonstrate their experience and ability with a strong history of previous work on, for example, plays, festivals and other performing arts events. Such work provides opportunities to develop skills and gain exposure.

Small range of employers for artistic directors

The main employers of artistic directors are:

• film and video businesses
• radio and television organisations
• marketing and business management companies
• arts organisations such as theatre and dance companies.

Artistic directors may progress into project, events or business management roles.

Artistic directors may specialise in:

• dance
• drama
• festivals.

Artistic directors need to be:

• creative and imaginative
• patient, persistent and focused
• able to work well under pressure
• able to lead a team of people
• good at research
• excellent communicators, with good people skills
• good at time management, planning and organisation
• strong decision makers
• able to relate to people from a range of cultures.