Texas' Dallas Theater Center has named Jaime Castañeda its new artistic director. Castañeda is the sixth artistic director in the theatre's more than 60-year history, overseeing its artistic programming. He will assume his role in June 2026. He takes over for Interim Artistic Director Jonathan Norton.

Castañeda's inaugural season at DTC will be 2026-27. DTC is a 2017 winner of the Regional Theatre Tony Award.

“Growing up in Texas, Dallas Theater Center was one of the first places where I saw what professional theatre and excellence looked like,” said Castañeda in a statement. “I’m thrilled to come back and build on the history of artists and leaders who have been a part of this organization. I’m eager to join Kevin, the board, and our staff to create lasting theatrical experiences for our audiences.”

Castañeda previously served as associate artistic director of La Jolla Playhouse from 2014-2018. He has also worked Off-Broadway as artistic associate at Atlantic Theater Company from 2009–2014. Previous artistic directors at DTC are founding artistic director Paul Baker, Adrian Hall, Ken Bryant, Richard Hamburger, and Kevin Moriarty, and Norton.

"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 Executive Director Kevin Moriarty; Moriarty previously served as artistic director from 2007–2022. “With his Texas roots and national experience, I am thrilled to welcome him home as DTC’s new Enloe/Rose artistic director. I have known and admired his work since 2007, when he was already one of the most exciting emerging directors in North Texas, and I later saw him create unforgettable work for DTC on the Wyly stage and at leading theatres nationwide.”

Castañeda is a recipient of the Princess Grace Award, the Drama League Directing Fellowship, and holds a BFA from Texas Christian University and an MFA in Directing from University of Texas at Austin.

Visit DallasTheaterCenter.org.