The Dallas Theater Center (DTC) has announced the appointment of Jaime Castañeda as its new artistic director, effective July 2026. Castañeda, who has a long-standing connection with DTC and the North Texas theater community, will be the sixth individual to hold this prestigious position. His inaugural season will commence with the 2026-27 theater lineup.
Currently, Jonathan Norton serves as the interim artistic director and will oversee the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, which features the world premiere of his play, Malcolm X and Redd Foxx Washing Dishes, at Jimmy’s Chicken Shack in Harlem in May.
In a statement, Lynn Pride Richardson, chair of the DTC board, expressed confidence in Castañeda’s leadership capabilities. “DTC is committed to artistic excellence and community engagement, and we believe Jaime’s experience, creativity, bold vision, and proven leadership, coupled with his dedication to innovation, will guide DTC into an exciting new chapter in the life of the theater.”
Castañeda’s artistic journey began over two decades ago in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where he founded Firestarter Productions while attending Texas Christian University. He has directed various productions at DTC, including The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity by Kristoffer Diaz in 2012. His local theater credits extend to Kitchen Dog Theater, Amphibian Stage, and Circle Theatre.
Recognized for his contributions to the arts, Castañeda has received notable accolades such as the Princess Grace Award and the Drama League Directing Fellowship. He holds a BFA from Texas Christian University and an MFA in Directing from the University of Texas at Austin. His recent work includes directing at prominent theaters across the country, such as American Conservatory Theater, South Coast Repertory, Huntington Theatre Company, and La Jolla Playhouse, where he served as associate artistic director from 2014-2018.
Castañeda’s appointment comes after a national search led by Management Consultants for the Arts. The search committee, co-chaired by board members Chris Luna and Lynn Pride Richardson, included various stakeholders from the arts community.
“Jaime brings a bold, visceral artistic vision, a deep commitment to new voices, and a collaborative leadership style that inspires artists and audiences alike,” said Kevin Moriarty, DTC’s executive director. “With his Texas roots and national experience, I am thrilled to welcome him home as DTC’s new Enloe/Rose artistic director.”
Castañeda joins a legacy of distinguished artistic leaders at the Dallas Theater Center, including founding artistic director Paul Baker, Adrian Hall, Ken Bryant, Richard Hamburger, and Moriarty, who was artistic director from 2007-2022.
Expressing his excitement, Castañeda remarked, “Growing up in Texas, Dallas Theater Center was one of the first places where I saw what professional theater and excellence looked like. I’m thrilled to come back and build on the history of artists and leaders who have been a part of this organization. I’m eager to join Kevin, the board, and our staff to create lasting theatrical experiences for our audiences.”
As artistic director, Castañeda will oversee the theater’s artistic vision, direct and produce plays and musicals, and collaborate with the staff and board of trustees to advance DTC’s mission.
Dallas Theater Center’s current production of A Christmas Carol runs through December 27, 2025, at the Wyly Theatre, highlighting the vibrant arts scene in the region as it prepares for a new era under Castañeda’s leadership.
