Job Description

Founded in 1974 by James Buller, the Native Theatre School—now known as the Centre for Indigenous Theatre (CIT)—was established to nurture Indigenous theatre artists in a respectful and supportive environment. From a four-week summer program, it has evolved into a vital institution offering a three-year, conservatory-style post-secondary program, with an optional fourth year focused on individual creation and applied methodologies. Rooted in Indigenous knowledge systems and performance traditions, CIT delivers culturally grounded training in acting, movement, voice, Indigenous song and dance, and oral storytelling. The curriculum blends Indigenous pedagogies with Western theatre techniques, preparing students to thrive artistically while remaining connected to community and culture.

Located in Toronto’s West End, CIT is a vibrant creative hub offering a wide range of classes, including Indigenous Performance & Story Creation, Scene Study, Acting, Voice, Movement, Stage Combat, Physical Theatre, and Acting for Camera and many others. Students also benefit from mentorship, training intensives, guest artist workshops, and annual public showcases and productions. CIT contributes meaningfully to the Indigenous cultural economy, supporting the next generation of Indigenous storytellers and theatre professionals. It is a place where students gather from all directions—honouring the past and moving boldly into the future through Indigenous theatrical expression.

The Opportunity

The Centre for Indigenous Theatre is seeking applications for Advisory Council Members to help guide and support the organization as it continues to uphold its mandate and deliver on its vision. Advisory Council Members offer thoughtful counsel, contribute specific expertise, and champion the organization’s mission in community and sector settings. Council members may serve on working groups or support special initiatives aligned with their experience and interests. Board members normally take on a two-to-three-year term (to a maximum of two with the opportunity for re-election) with board meetings being held several times throughout the year, either in Toronto or virtually as required. The incumbent will be compensated for costs associated with travelling to these meetings in alignment with CIT policies.

It is anticipated that the successful candidates would join the Board July – September 2025.

Desired Experience and Competencies

Among the qualities sought in incoming Advisory Council Members is a deep and genuine commitment to advancing Indigenous cultural expression, knowledge sharing, and self-determination. Candidates should hold a strong respect for Indigenous ways of being and knowing, and bring a spirit of reciprocity, humility, and openness to the role. A meaningful connection to CIT’s vision is essential.

Applicants will be considered based on their lived experiences, cultural knowledge, skill sets, and the wisdom they can bring to the Advisory Council. The following areas of expertise and experience are particularly aligned with the Council’s current needs: A) Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and Community Leaders who offer cultural grounding and guidance; B) practicing or former performance artists in theatre or related disciplines; C) educators, administrators, or artistic programming developers in Indigenous arts or post-secondary education; D) professionals with backgrounds in financial management, accounting, legal services (especially contracts and HR); E) individuals with leadership experience in Indigenous or community-based organizations, and; F) those with experience in governance, non-profit management, or strategic advisory roles. CIT especially welcomes applicants with a strong desire to support the next generation of Indigenous artists and leaders through mentorship, advocacy, and collaboration.

How to Apply

All interested applicants can send their resume to Urmilla Mahabirsingh or Jason Murray at BIPOC Executive Search by e-mailing [email protected]

In accordance with the AODA Act, for applicants living with a disability, accommodation will be provided throughout the search process. Should accommodation be required, please make Urmilla Mahabirsingh aware by using the above address.

We thank everyone for their expression of interest—and are truly appreciative of the time individuals put into applying—but with the limitations of time, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Required languages: English

Education level: N/A

Required skills: N/A

Closest intersection: 180 Shaw St Suite 209