The Tony Award-winning Dallas Theater Center (DTC) has appointed Jaime Castañeda as its new artistic director, effective July 2026. Castañeda will be stepping into the role as the sixth artistic director in DTC’s history, taking the reins for the 2026-27 season, which will be his first to curate.
Currently, Jonathan Norton, DTC’s resident playwright, serves as the interim artistic director, guiding the organization through the remainder of the 2025-26 season. This season will conclude with the world premiere of Norton’s play, Malcolm X and Redd Foxx Washing Dishes at Jimmy’s Chicken Shack in Harlem, scheduled for May 2026.
“DTC is committed to artistic excellence and community engagement,” said board chair Lynn Pride Richardson in an official statement. “We believe Jaime’s experience, creativity, bold vision, and proven leadership will guide DTC into an exciting new chapter in the life of the theater.”
Jaime Castañeda’s relationship with DTC dates back to 2012 when he directed the acclaimed production of The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity by Kristoffer Diaz. His career began over two decades ago in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where he founded Firestarter Productions while still a student at Texas Christian University. His extensive experience also includes directing at local venues such as Kitchen Dog Theater, Amphibian Stage, and Circle Theatre.
Castañeda has received numerous accolades, including 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 directing credits extend to prominent theaters across the United States, including the American Conservatory Theater, South Coast Repertory, Huntington Theatre Company, and La Jolla Playhouse, where he previously served as associate artistic director from 2014 to 2018. Castañeda also held the position of artistic associate at Atlantic Theater Company from 2009 to 2014.
“Jaime brings a bold, visceral artistic vision and a deep commitment to new voices,” said Kevin Moriarty, executive director of DTC. “His collaborative leadership style inspires artists and audiences alike. With his Texas roots and national experience, I am thrilled to welcome him home as DTC’s new Enloe/Rose artistic director.”
In his new role, Castañeda will shape the theater’s artistic vision, directing and producing plays and musicals. He will also oversee DTC’s Diane and Hal Brierley Resident Acting Company and work closely with Moriarty, the staff, and the board of trustees to further DTC’s mission and values.
Castañeda follows in the footsteps of a distinguished lineup of artistic leadership at DTC, including founding artistic director Paul Baker, as well as Adrian Hall, Ken Bryant, Richard Hamburger, and Moriarty, who served from 2007 to 2022.
“We are extremely pleased with a successful national search that brings Jaime to Dallas Theater Center,” said board member Chris Luna. “His energy is contagious, and he understands Texas and Dallas. We look forward to collaborating with Jaime as he continues his innovative approach to regional theater.”
Castañeda was selected for the position following a comprehensive national search conducted by Management Consultants for the Arts. The search committee was co-chaired by Luna and Richardson and included Moriarty, Norton, and various stakeholders from the Dallas arts community.
“Growing up in Texas, Dallas Theater Center was one of the first places where I saw what professional theater and excellence looked like,” Castañeda remarked. “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.”
Currently, Dallas Theater Center is presenting the production of A Christmas Carol, running through December 27, 2025, at the Wyly Theatre.
