Interim Curator of Performance

We have an opening for an Interim Curator of Performance to join the MCA’s Artistic Division as we seek to bolster the institution’s historical commitment to interdisciplinary performance. They will manage our current programs and advise the Deputy Director and Chief of Curatorial Affairs to shape the future of performance at the MCA. The Interim Curator will oversee the Assistant Curator to execute the Spring 2025 performance season and develop a 2026 season that integrates artists, themes, and questions emerging from the MCA’s upcoming projects, including a solo exhibition of the work of Yoko Ono and an historic survey of the cross-pollination of Caribbean popular music (such as Dancehall and Reggaeton) and contemporary art. This position creates and organizes live performance and engagement experiences for visitors, primarily in the Edlis Neeson Theater, in alignment with institutional goals. They conceive a diverse schedule of performances and offerings of both specialist and non-specialist interests including but not limited to the fields of dance, theater, music, and performance art. They also maintain professional networks and work to conceptualize overall opportunities to raise the profile of performance practices in the city and beyond. They undertake these responsibilities in the spirit of public service, understanding that the MCA serves its immediate community, and also build bridges to multidisciplinary practices across the country and world. To be successful in this role, you will:

• Conceive, organize, schedule, coordinate, and supervise performance programs related to interdisciplinary performance and performing arts, that align with the MCA’s artistic program, positioning the MCA as a leading institution with a transcultural presentation of live art and relevance to Chicago audiences.
• Work with artists to hone finished works to be ready for the specific conditions of the MCA; ensure that MCA is contributing to new developments in the time-based arts through occasional commissions; connect audiences with artists to enhance understanding of the art form; and advise on Collection-related activities as they pertain to performance.
• Where relevant, work with colleagues in the Learning department and other partners to create occasional auxiliary programming for performance projects and other convergent initiatives.
• Keep abreast of all aspects of the contemporary art world by maintaining contacts with colleagues in the field and developing knowledge of international, national, and local artists, new scholarship and literature in the field. Undertake research travel, as appropriate, under the auspices of the MCA.

• Supervise, mentor, train, and oversee direct reports on a day-to-day basis.
• Maintain partnerships with appropriate cultural and government entities for the presentation and touring of projects.
• Work with Performance and Programs Project Manager to align the curatorial vision and the needs of artists with annual budgets, interdepartmental workflow, contracting and negotiations, and producing logistics.
• Align with the Production, Visitor Experience, and Building Operations teams to ensure efficient, professional, and best-practice production, front of house, and hospitality plans for performances.

• Collaborate with the Development department on the management and stewardship of donors, as well as to supply them with information necessary to pursue grants and other forms of financial support.
• Work closely with the Communications and Content department to craft press releases, program notes, web content, and marketing materials in a timely manner and with the goal of maximizing audiences and attention.
• Speak to the MCA-affiliated groups; participate in and/or organize program-related hospitality; and serve on panels and juries to be an effective ambassador of the museum.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• MA in Art, Art History, Curatorial Studies, Cultural Studies, Performance Studies, or equivalent work experience
• 5-7 years museum, gallery, or performance venue experience, research position at college or university level, and/or independent curating experience required, with emphasis on conceiving, producing, and managing performance.
• Expertise in contemporary theater, music, dance, and/or performance art, both historical and current.
• Strong understanding of innovative practices in public programming and museum work; curiosity and drive to stay ahead of trends in contemporary art to identify new and unique opportunities to serve the mission.
• Proven ability to communicate successes and opportunities with passion and clarity, in written and verbal formats in both formal and informal situations.
• Ability to forge and maintain effective, collaborative working relationships with a variety of representatives of public and private organizations, Board members, vendors, and cross-departmental Museum staff.
• Self-motivated and able to determine the best course of action in an autonomous manner.
• Ability to successfully lead a team and collaborate effectively with colleagues of differing expertise and priorities.
• Ability to prioritize and adjust heavy workload, manage a variety of tasks, and meet various deadlines.
• Strong diplomatic and mediation skills. Ability to lead programs throughout the museum, to navigate to different areas of the city for artist and partner visits, and to undertake national and international travel.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365.
• Ability to perform occasional light lifting.
• Ability to fulfill a one-year appointment in this position.
• General mobility throughout the museum.

This is a full-time position, with a Monday - Friday 9a-5p schedule that may occasionally include evening and weekend availability as required to fulfill responsibilities and for related museum activities.
40 hours per week