Join our Board of Directors

Factory Theatre was established in 1970. It was the first professional theatre company in Canada to commit itself exclusively to the production of Canadian plays. Well into the 21st century, Factory continues this tradition, while continuing to develop the talents and careers of a broad range of Canadian theatrical professionals. In the meantime, the Factory Theatre model – a bold new experiment at the time of its inception – has slowly changed the face of Canadian theatre, as theatre companies from coast to coast regularly reach for the work of Canadian playwrights, established and emerging, as part of their seasons’ fare. Factory itself continues to devote itself exclusively to Canadian plays.

The theatre is incorporated as a non-profit organization and currently owns and occupies a heritage building on prime downtown Toronto real estate. There are two theatres: the Mainspace Theatre with a 200-seat capacity and the Studio Theatre with seating for 100. Throughout the year, Factory also serves as a rental venue for the productions of independent theatre companies and festivals.

• Factory is currently in it’s 52nd season of operation with:
• Critically acclaimed, award-winning work on stage.
• Strong support from government, foundations, corporate and individual donors.
• Experienced artistic leadership.
• A committed Board of Directors with a broad range of experience and professional expertise.
• A strong commitment by both management, staff and board to stay true to the theatre’s original mandate in a manner that reflects the immense diversity of Canadian society and the Canadian experience in the 21st century.

Role of the Board

The Board is charged with ensuring that Factory Theatre is a thriving, vital theatre company, both in its internal operations and in its external position and profile in the broader community. This means it is responsible for ensuring that Factory is being managed and operated in ways that are healthy and sustainable. Some of the Board’s particular responsibilities include: hiring/evaluating both the Artistic Director and General Manager; approving the annual season’s activities in line with the theatre’s mandate; approving the annual budget and providing financial oversight; participating in strategic planning; and determining and evaluating progress towards the theatre’s long-range strategic plans.

The Board is made up of committed volunteers with a passion for Factory, who bring their skills, knowledge, and experiences to the table for the benefit of the theatre. We encourage all interested individuals to apply, and aim to have a Board that reflects all aspects of the diversity of our communities,

Obligations

• Regular attendance at monthly board meetings.
• Active participation on at least one board committee.
• Annual personal gift to Factory Theatre that corresponds with financial means (minimum $500) each calendar year.
• Regular attendance at Opening Nights.
• Bringing guest and potential sponsors/donors to performances and other theatre events, whenever possible.
• Active participation in fundraising efforts for Factory Theatre. Directors are expected to tap into their personal and professional networks to identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit and steward donors and sponsors.
• Board members are expected to contribute, where possible, their time and professional input to theatre-related matters. Such input is not to be calculated as part of any financial obligation detailed above.
• Responsibility for ensuring compliance rests with the Board Chair, who may delegate this to a director.

Necessary Attributes

• Love for contemporary Canadian theatre and an appreciation of Factory Theatre’s history and mandate.
• Understanding of or a desire to understand the challenges of non-profit performing arts organizations.
• A willingness to be a public ambassador for Factory Theatre, assisting in developing our network of patrons, donors, supporters and friends.

How to Apply

Send your professional resume or bio, contact information, and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in joining Factory’s board and the skills you bring to the table to board@factorytheatre.ca. Applications are being accepted through to the fall of 2022 and will be reviewed on a regular basis as they are received.