Job Summary

The Program Manager supports the McCallum Theatre’s artistic vision by managing program booking logistics, contract administration, and season scheduling. This position works directly with agents, artists, programs, and internal staff to ensure clear communication, accurate agreements, and smooth execution of contracts. The Program Manager also ensures contracts are compliant with legal and organizational policies, cultivates strong industry relationships, and remains informed about trends and competitive programming in order to help maintain a dynamic and successful season.

Essential Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact with agents and managers to initiate offers, confirm terms, and coordinate details for artist and program engagements.
• Draft, review, red-line, and process artist and program contracts and riders; ensure timely execution of all agreements.
• Ensure agreements are compliant with legal and organizational policies, escalating issues for leadership or legal review as appropriate.
• Negotiate fees and terms within approved guidelines and budgets, escalating as needed for leadership approval.
• Build and sustain strong relationships with talent representatives, booking agencies, production companies, and industry stakeholders.
• Maintain and update the season calendar, ensuring accurate scheduling of performances, rehearsals, and related activities.
• Coordinate with production, marketing, finance, and education staff to ensure contractual obligations are communicated and fulfilled.
• Track artist and program payments, deposits, and settlement requirements; work with Finance for accuracy and compliance.
• Maintain organized files of contracts, correspondence, and performance information.
• Provide administrative support for season planning, including researching potential artists and preparing materials for leadership review.
• Stay current with industry trends, audience demographics, and local competitor programming to help ensure a relevant and fresh calendar of events.
• Assist the Vice President—General Manager with additional administrative and logistical tasks as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Theatre, Arts Administration, Business, or related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 2–4 years of professional experience in performing arts programming, booking, or contract administration.
• Familiarity with standard artist and program agreements, contracts, riders, and industry practices.
• Ability to interpret legal language and understand implications for the organization.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills; ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in contract review and financial documentation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and experience with arts administration / venue management software.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends during performance periods.

Work Environment

This position operates within a professional, non-profit performing arts theatre and surrounding exterior grounds. Work locations include the theatre, lobby, backstage areas, and occasionally outdoor facility grounds. The role requires flexibility to work during theatre events, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as necessary.

Physical Requirements

(N = Never, O = Occasionally, F = Frequently, C = Constantly)

Lift / Carry

Environmental Conditions

• Uneven Ground: No
• Excessive Noise: No
• Extreme Temperatures: No
• Working at Heights: No
• Exposure to noise (>90 dB/8 hrs): No
• Exposure to dust/fumes: No
• Exposure to Biohazards: No
• Exposure to hazards: No

Definitions: Specific physical activities and essential functions are defined in the full position description (e.g., Sitting, Standing, Walking, Climbing, Balancing, Stooping, Twisting, Kneeling, Squatting, Crawling, Push/Pull, Reaching, Gripping, Pinching, Keyboard, Neck Rotation, Foot Use, Visual Acuity, Lifting, Carrying, Noise).

Work Authorization / Security

• Proof of eligibility to work in the United States required.
• Criminal and civil background check will be performed.
• McCallum Theatre is an equal opportunity employer / Drug Free Workplace.

AAP / EEO Statement

McCallum Theatre provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type 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 law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.

About the McCallum Theatre

Located in Palm Desert, California, the McCallum Theatre is a renowned non-profit performing arts theater dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the community through a diverse program of world-class entertainment, arts education, and community engagement. Our mission is to provide a world-class platform for artists while enhancing the cultural experience for our patrons and supporting our local community. To learn more visit www.McCallumTheatre.org.

Palm Desert, California: Incorporated in 1973 and home to more than 50,000 year-round residents, Palm Desert is centrally located in the Coachella Valley and is a regional center for education, culture and retail. It is approximately 125 miles east of Los Angeles and 15 miles east of Palm Springs.

To Apply

Please submit a resume and brief cover letter to
hr@mccallum-theatre.org
with the subject line: Program Manager – [Your Name].

Apply: Program Manager – McCallum Theatre

This is a 100% on-site role and requires availability for evening and weekend performances.