The Lark Theatre Company (2018)

In August 2018, The Lark Theatre Company (The Lark), an international theatre laboratory located in New York City, was experimenting with a radically different staff structure from most arts organizations. When Michael Robertson, The Lark’s managing director, announced he was leaving the organization, John Eisner, The Lark’s artistic director, decided not to hire a new managing director but instead named four current staff members as co-leaders of the organization. Eisner hoped that by eliminating the managing director position, he was creating a more accessible, inclusive, and equitable office that would allow the staff more autonomy and opportunities for leadership. He also hoped this structure would provide space for a wider range of voices to contribute to decision making in the organization. The 15 members of the staff spent a lot of time over 11 months discussing the impact of the new structure. For some, it was positive. Some staff members found the structure created clarity aro