The Dallas Theater Center (DTC) has announced the appointment of Jaime Castañeda as its new artistic director, effective July 2026. Castañeda will succeed current interim artistic director Jonathan Norton, who is finishing the 2025-26 season. This transition marks an important chapter for the Tony Award-winning theater, as Castañeda will oversee the selection of productions for the 2026-27 season.
Norton, who is also DTC’s resident playwright, is preparing for the world premiere of his play, Malcolm X and Redd Foxx Washing Dishes at Jimmy’s Chicken Shack, set to debut in May 2026. In a statement, Lynn Pride Richardson, DTC board chair, expressed confidence in Castañeda’s abilities, stating, “DTC is committed to artistic excellence and community engagement, and we believe Jaime’s experience, creativity, bold vision, and proven leadership will guide DTC into an exciting new chapter.”
Castañeda has deep roots in the North Texas theater community, having started his career over 20 years ago by founding Firestarter Productions while studying at Texas Christian University. His directorial credits at DTC include the acclaimed production of The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity by Kristoffer Diaz in 2012. He has also worked with local theaters such as Kitchen Dog Theater, Amphibian Stage, and Circle Theatre.
With a strong educational background, Castañeda 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 across the United States, such as the American Conservatory Theater, South Coast Repertory, Huntington Theatre Company, and La Jolla Playhouse, where he served as associate artistic director from 2014 to 2018.
“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 executive director. Moriarty, who previously held the artistic director position from 2007 to 2022, praised Castañeda’s work since their first meeting in 2007, highlighting his reputation as an exciting emerging director in North Texas.
As artistic director, Castañeda will be responsible for leading DTC’s artistic vision, directing and producing plays and musicals, and overseeing the Diane and Hal Brierley Resident Acting Company. He will collaborate closely with Moriarty, the staff, and the board of trustees to advance the theater’s mission and values.
Castañeda’s selection follows a thorough national search conducted by Management Consultants for the Arts. The search committee, co-chaired by board members Chris Luna and Richardson, included a diverse group of stakeholders from the arts community. “We are extremely pleased with a successful national search that brings Jaime to Dallas Theater Center,” Luna stated. “His energy is contagious, and he understands Texas and Dallas.”
In reflecting on his new role, 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.” He expressed eagerness to join forces with Moriarty and the board to create lasting theatrical experiences for audiences.
Currently, the Dallas Theater Center is presenting its production of A Christmas Carol, which runs through December 27, 2025, at the Wyly Theatre. As the theater prepares for this holiday classic, anticipation builds for Castañeda’s upcoming leadership, promising a dynamic future for the institution.
