TDF has found a new executive director in Deeksha Gaur, who will officially join the organization August 7. Gaur succeeds 2023 Tony Honoree Victoria Bailey, who has been with the organization since 2001.
Gaur comes to TDF after serving as co-founder and general manager of theatre review platform Show-Score. She has also held marketing and PR positions at Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, Two River Theater Company, and Long Wharf Theatre.
“After enjoying Tory Bailey’s leadership for 22 years, we knew the bar was set high to find the next great visionary leader for TDF," says TDF Board of Trustees Chair Gwen Marcus in a statement. "I’m delighted to say that, after an exhaustive search, we found that person. With her years of experience in both commercial and non-profit theatre, and her commitment to growing audiences and accessibility for the performing arts, Deeksha is ideally suited to lead TDF in its next exciting chapter. We are beyond thrilled."
“For over 50 years, TDF has been leading the charge to increase access for all who wish to participate in theatre, dance, and the live arts,” adds Gaur. “Indeed, under Tory’s steady and steadfast leadership over the last two decades, TDF has lived its mission to eliminate barriers to attendance through its TKTS Booths, its memberships, and its Access programs. Now, in our next chapter, we must continue to expand access, while also building even deeper, more meaningful relationships with the diverse communities of NYC so that every New Yorker can feel a sense of belonging, pride in, and ownership of the city’s vibrant theatre and performing arts. Building new audiences for theatre has been a throughline of my career, and I am beyond honored to dive into this urgent work, as the industry continues its post-pandemic recovery, with TDF’s passionate, thoughtful, and purpose-driven board and staff."
Established in 1968, TDF works to increase access to the theatre, both through accessibility programs (including open captioning, audio description, and Autism friendly performances) and through a range of discount ticket initiatives, most famously the TKTS Booth in Duffy Square.
