Plaza Theatre begins search for next executive director

The next director will be responsible for much of the Plaza’s day-to-day operation, including programming, bookings, marketing, finances, staffing and the upkeep of the theatre.

Plaza Theatre begins search for next executive director
The Historic Plaza Theatre in Glasgow. (Brennan Crain/Barrenside)

GLASGOW, Ky. — The city of Glasgow has begun its search for the next person to lead the Plaza Theatre, posting an executive director position with a starting salary of $55,000 to $60,000 a year.

The opening comes less than a week after former executive director Carolyn Glodfelter was fired following nearly 11 years at the helm of the historic downtown theatre.

The city posted the position Monday through its online career center.

The next director will be responsible for much of the Plaza’s day-to-day operation, including programming, bookings, marketing, finances, staffing and the upkeep of the theatre.

The job posting describes the position as one that will work under the general direction of Mayor Henry Royse and closely with the Plaza Theatre Advisory Board.

The board provides guidance and recommendations on the theatre’s goals, programming, operations and community needs.

The director will also be expected to identify and recommend performers, productions and events, taking into account community interest, expected attendance, projected revenue and expenses and financial risk.

That person will negotiate proposed terms for shows and rentals, coordinate approved events and develop marketing efforts intended to increase theatre awareness, attendance, ticket sales and revenue.

The posting also calls for the director to build relationships with performers, booking agents, promoters, arts organizations, businesses and community groups.

A broad role

The position extends beyond booking shows.

The director will help develop the theatre’s annual budget, monitor revenue and expenses, manage spending within approved limits and pursue fundraising and sponsorship opportunities.

The director also will supervise theatre employees and volunteers, determine staffing needs and coordinate personnel for performances, rentals and special events.

Facility responsibilities include overseeing the Plaza’s condition, security, maintenance and general operation. The director will work with maintenance and technical staff and is expected to have enough knowledge of stage lighting, sound, rigging and production systems to coordinate operations and supervise technical personnel.

The city says the position will help ensure the theatre complies with safety, occupancy and other regulatory requirements.

Who can apply

The city is seeking applicants with a bachelor’s degree in arts administration, theatre management, business administration, event management, marketing or a related field.

Applicants should have three to five years of progressively responsible experience in theatre operations, performing arts administration, venue management, event management, hospitality, entertainment or a related field, including management or significant leadership experience.

The posting says an equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered.

The director must be able to work evenings, weekends, holidays and irregular hours based on the theatre’s schedule. A valid driver’s license is required, along with successful completion of background and drug screenings.

New leadership

Glodfelter was fired Sept. 15.

Royse said the decision was not based on misconduct or a violation of law. He said the city wanted to move the theatre in a “different direction” and cited concerns about the number of shows, promotion and the recruitment of acts.

Royse previously said the city would advertise the position and involve members of the Plaza Theatre Advisory Board in the hiring process.

He said he envisioned an interview committee made up of board members, although the authority to hire and fire the executive director rests with the mayor.

In the meantime, Ben Rascoe and part-time employees have been working with city government to oversee the theatre.

The Plaza Theatre position is listed as full-time under the city’s Officials-Admin category.

Those interested in applying can view the job posting and submit an application through the City of Glasgow’s online career center.

The bottom line

The city is looking for a new leader to oversee nearly every aspect of the Plaza Theatre, from booking shows and marketing to finances, staffing and facility operations. The position pays $55,000 to $60,000 annually.


The Barrenside Brief, our free email newsletter

News with explanation, local history, and things to do, delivered straight to your inbox three times a week.