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Request for Proposals (RFP)

Winter Cabaret Director

Event Overview

Wise Fool New Mexico (WFNM) invites proposals for a Director to lead our Winter Cabaret (our first performance in our new space!), a community-centered production featuring semi-professional and professional circus artists. This year’s Winter Cabaret will take place over one weekend:

  • Saturday, December 27, 2025 – Shows at 2PM & 6PM
  • Sunday, December 28, 2025 – Show at 4PM

There will be a total of three performances, each running 60–90 minutes, and rooted in Wise Fool’s mission to ignite imagination, build community, and uplift social justice through circus arts.

We are seeking a Director to shape a cohesive show: selecting a theme, recruiting performers, crafting the lineup, coordinating rehearsals, and leading the production through performance. This role includes collaboration with Wise Fool’s staff.

Director Responsibilities

Responsibilities may be shared or delegated in collaboration with WFNM staff.

  • Develop and propose a theme for the Cabaret, aligned with Wise Fool values
  • Invite and select semi-professional and professional performers, including acts across circus, clown, aerials, dance, puppetry, music, or variety arts
  • Create show flow, lineup, and transitions, including organizing auditions or reviewing act proposals
  • Uphold a culture of respect and community support among artists and crew
  • Disseminate all pertinent information to Artists/potential artists throughout the process
  • Coordinate with Wise Fool staff on budget, tech needs, and venue logistics
  • Schedule rehearsals, tech run, and show call times
  • Lead show day operations, including stage flow and backstage coordination
  • Collaborate with WF team on promotional materials and community engagement
  • Offer feedback post-show and participate in evaluation

Proposal Requirements

Please include the following in your submission:

  1. Theme Proposal – The theme and vision for the Cabaret, including tone, concept, or
    narrative
  2. Experience Overview – Brief narrative of directing, performance, community arts, or
    social justice involvement
  3. Work Samples (Optional) – Links to past shows, productions, or events

Compensation & Structure

This is a primarily community-driven, volunteer-based production. This Director role is considered work-trade, with potential for a small stipend if the selected Director is current WFNM staff or coach. Performing artists donate their time in support of Wise Fool New Mexico. If the Director proposes a headliner or guest artist, limited funds may be available for compensation pending approval and budget. All ticket revenue supports Wise Fool NM’s mission and ongoing community programs.

Timeline

  • Proposals Due: October 31, 2025, 5PM MTN
  • Director Selected: November 3, 2025
  • Planning & Casting: November & December
  • Show Weekend: December 27 & 28, 2025

Submit Proposals & Questions To:

Alishiya Kapoor, Executive Director
Email: alishiya@wisefoolnm.org

Statement of Non-Commitment

Issuance of this RFP does not commit Wise Fool to award a contract or pay any costs incurred. Wise Fool New Mexico does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, ancestry, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status in any of its activities or operations.

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