The Dallas Theater Center (DTC) has announced the appointment of Jaime Castañeda as its new artistic director, effective July 2026. Castañeda, a seasoned figure in the North Texas theater scene, will take over from Jonathan Norton, who is currently serving as interim artistic director and will lead DTC through the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.
In a statement, Lynn Pride Richardson, chair of the board, expressed confidence in Castañeda’s abilities. She emphasized DTC’s commitment to “artistic excellence and community engagement” and stated that his “experience, creativity, bold vision, and proven leadership” would usher in an exciting new chapter for the theater.
Castañeda’s relationship with DTC stretches back over a decade. He directed the acclaimed production of The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity in 2012. His career in theater began more than 20 years ago in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where he founded Firestarter Productions while studying at Texas Christian University.
Significant Experience and Recognition
Beyond his work at DTC, Castañeda has directed for various local companies, including Kitchen Dog Theater, Amphibian Stage, and Circle Theatre. His notable accolades include the Princess Grace Award and the Drama League Directing Fellowship. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Texas Christian University and a Master of Fine Arts in Directing from the University of Texas at Austin.
His national experience includes directing at prestigious theaters such as American Conservatory Theater, South Coast Repertory, Huntington Theatre Company, and La Jolla Playhouse, where he served as associate artistic director from 2014 to 2018. Castañeda also worked as an artistic associate at Off-Broadway’s Atlantic Theater Company from 2009 to 2014.
“Jaime brings a bold, visceral artistic vision, a deep commitment to new voices, and a collaborative leadership style,” 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.”
As artistic director, Castañeda will be responsible for shaping DTC’s artistic vision, directing and producing plays and musicals, and overseeing the theater’s resident acting company. He will work closely with Moriarty, the staff, and the board of trustees to advance DTC’s mission and values.
A Bright Future for Dallas Theater Center
Castañeda succeeds a distinguished line of artistic directors at DTC, including Paul Baker, Adrian Hall, Ken Bryant, Richard Hamburger, and Moriarty, who served in that role from 2007 to 2022. Following a national search facilitated by Management Consultants for the Arts, Castañeda emerged as the ideal candidate, according to DTC board member Chris Luna.
“His energy is contagious, and he understands Texas and Dallas,” Luna commented on Castañeda’s appointment. “We look forward to collaborating with him as he continues his innovative approach to regional theater.”
In expressing his excitement about the new role, Castañeda stated, “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.”
As DTC prepares for this leadership transition, its current production of A Christmas Carol runs through December 27, 2025, at the Wyly Theatre, showcasing the theater’s ongoing commitment to delivering quality performances to its audience.
