16.10 A Day in the Life

A day in the life of an arts administrator at Playhouse Square or a museum curator at the Cleveland Museum of Art is filled with both creativity and strategic planning.

For an arts administrator at Playhouse Square, the day might begin with a morning meeting to review the upcoming season’s performances, coordinating with marketing, fundraising, and production teams to ensure everything is on track. They spend time reviewing budgets, securing sponsorships, and meeting with community partners to collaborate on events. Throughout the day, they may interact with performers and theater staff, addressing logistical details and ensuring that all aspects of the productions run smoothly. Their work involves balancing the artistic vision of the shows with the practical needs of the organization, ensuring Playhouse Square remains a vibrant hub for performing arts in Cleveland.

At the Cleveland Museum of Art, a museum curator’s day might start by reviewing a new exhibition’s layout. They work closely with artists, historians, and exhibition designers to finalize details, making sure each piece is displayed in a way that tells a compelling story. Curators also spend time researching potential acquisitions, meeting with donors, and writing descriptions for the museum’s collections.

They may guide tours or give talks to visitors, explaining the significance of certain artworks and engaging the public in conversations about art and culture. Behind the scenes, curators collaborate with conservationists to ensure the preservation of artworks and work with educators to develop programs that connect the community to the museum’s resources. Both roles combine creativity, leadership, and public engagement, making every day dynamic and impactful.