As an Audience Development Specialist at The Market Theatre Foundation, you are tasked with cultivating, expanding and sustaining the audience base for all the Foundations’ artistic offerings and stakeholder relations activations. The role involves coordinating, researching, strategizing, implementing, monitoring and evaluating initiatives, that are in line with the Artistic programming and MTF Corporate brand, to engage diverse demographics and build and maintain a sustainable audience base for the Foundation. The role requires an advocate for the arts who is passionate about connecting varied communities with the experiences of live performances, exhibitions, public engagement programming, youth edutainment interventions and artistic professional and education development programming. The specialist will partner with the activities of Stakeholder Management and Business development of the Foundation to contribute to the optimization of income generation and customer satisfaction.

Audience Development Plan

• Develop a comprehensive audience development strategy and plan aligned with the artistic vision and goals.

• Identify target audience segments and tailor outreach efforts accordingly to promote the brand.

  Audience Analysis

• Conduct thorough research to understand the demographics, interests, and preferences of current and potential audiences.

• Utilise data analytics and audience feedback to inform programming and business decision-making. Marketing and Promotion

• Collaborate with the artistic department heads and the B&C team to create compelling campaigns that resonate with target audiences.

• Contribute to various channels such as social media, email marketing, print materials, and partnerships to promote productions and events including the overall business of the foundation.

  Audience Experience Enhancement

• Continuously seek ways to enhance the theatre and exhibition going experience, from bookings and ticket purchasing to post-show engagement.

• Collect feedback, make recommendations to support service and implement relevant improvements to ensure a welcoming and enjoyable experience for all patrons.

  Accessibility Initiatives

  • Advocate for accessibility and inclusivity in the theatre and exhibitions experience.
  • Implement initiatives in collaboration with artistic department heads to accommodate diverse audiences,

  including accessible performances, captioning, audio description, and sensory-friendly options.

  Partnership & Collaboration

  • Identify opportunities for collaboration with other relevant organization’s community groups, and businesses to expand reach and maximize resources.

  • In collaboration with stakeholder management function, plan and implement tailored events to host strategic stakeholders and potential funders.

  • Plan and implement site specific activations in and around the province and events to support marketing campaigns.

  • Leverage partnerships for cross-promotion and audience development initiatives. Community Engagement

  • In collaboration with the artistic department heads, foster intentional relationships with local communities and contact zones, schools, businesses, and cultural organisations.

  • Organize outreach events, workshops, and brand educational programs to introduce new audiences to the foundation and build long-term sustainable connections.