Buffalo Theatre Ensemble

Exciting News: Buffalo Theatre Ensemble’s New Chapter!



To our subscribers, donors, friends, and community,


Buffalo Theatre Ensemble’s long-time Managing Artistic Director Connie Canaday Howard is wrapping up her 24-year tenure on June 30, 2024. Having been involved with BTE as an artist, then Associate Artistic Director, then a founding Ensemble member, and finally Managing Artistic Director, for a remarkable 35 years of the company's 37-year history, Connie is looking forward to continued involvement as a committed Ensemble member. Under her leadership and in collaboration with the Ensemble, Board of Directors, College of DuPage, and subscribers, students, and members of the community, BTE has become a well-respected nonprofit organization that produces professional theatre and offers the community a place to connect, learn, and explore. We extend our deep gratitude for her hard work and dedication—work that has led BTE to become a strong and vibrant arts organization.


BTE is excited to embark on our next chapter. To ensure a seamless transition, BTE Associate Artistic Director Amelia Barrett is thrilled to serve as Interim Managing Artistic Director for the 2024-‘25 season. BTE is currently initiating a search for Interim Associate Artistic Director to assist Amelia for the upcoming season. The primary application window for the position of BTE Interim Associate Artistic Director is open from April 1, 2024 to April 30, 2024. You will find the job description Interim Associate Artistic Director here. We plan to onboard the Interim Associate Artistic Director in the next few months, with the position taking effect July 1, 2024.


BTE will also be initiating a comprehensive search for a Managing Artistic Director in the near future. We would like to have a person identified in late fall or early winter with the position to take effect July 1, 2025.


Both searches will be led by BTE’s Ensemble, in collaboration with BTE’s Board of Directors, to find individuals who possess a deep love of theatre and BTE’s mission, as well as the leadership and management skills, experience, collaborative commitment, and vision to lead us into the future. BTE’s mission is to provide a forum in which artists, scholars, writers, students, and community members explore new ideas and provocative issues through the production of quality theater for the enjoyment of its audiences. The company has pursued this mission through a long-term relationship and residence with the McAninch Arts Center, at the College of DuPage since its founding in 1986. 


Engaging our supporters and stakeholders in this process is crucial. Your insights, suggestions, and feedback are deeply valued. If you have any questions, you can reach out to Connie Canaday Howard (cch@btechicago.com), who will collect feedback. We also welcome you to encourage potential candidates from your own network of professional colleagues.  


With you, our committed and loyal BTE family, we are confident that this transition will bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and continued growth and success to BTE. We look forward to the future of BTE, and “Giving Stories Life!”


With gratitude,

Buffalo Theatre Ensemble


Interim Associate Artistic Director Search
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