Heather Cohn’s Career in American Theatre
Heather Cohn is an accomplished theatre director, producer, and arts administrator whose work has significantly influenced New York’s nonprofit theatre community. Throughout her career, she has combined artistic leadership with organizational development, helping theatre companies produce original work while building meaningful connections with audiences and supporters.
Her professional journey reflects a commitment to new voices, collaborative storytelling, and sustainable arts organizations.
Executive Director of En Garde Arts
Heather Cohn serves as the Executive Director of En Garde Arts, an organization recognized for creating innovative site specific and immersive theatre experiences. Before assuming this leadership position, she worked as the organization’s Director of Development and Community Engagement.
In her executive role, she oversees a broad range of responsibilities, including:
- Strategic planning
- Fundraising initiatives
- Community engagement
- Board relations
- Financial planning
- Organizational leadership
- Support for artistic programming
Her leadership has helped strengthen the organization’s long term mission while expanding its community impact.
Co Founder of Flux Theatre Ensemble
In 2006, Heather Cohn co founded Flux Theatre Ensemble, an Off Off Broadway theatre company dedicated to developing and producing original plays.
As Producing Director, she has guided the company through numerous productions while supporting emerging and established playwrights. Under her leadership, Flux Theatre Ensemble has produced 28 full productions, including 17 world premieres, demonstrating a strong commitment to new theatrical works.
Directing Experience
Alongside producing, Heather Cohn has directed several productions for Flux Theatre Ensemble. Her directing credits include collaborations with respected playwrights such as:
- Corinna Schulenburg
- Erin Browne
- Kristen Palmer
- Kevin R. Free
- Johnna Adams
She also served as Assistant Director to Austin Pendleton on Johnna Adams’ acclaimed play Gidion’s Knot, further expanding her experience in contemporary theatre.
Additional Theatre Collaborations
Heather Cohn’s directing work extends beyond Flux Theatre Ensemble. She has collaborated with several respected theatre organizations, including:
- Rattlestick Theater
- Lark Play Development Center
- Cherry Lane Theatre
- EstroGenius Festival
- Planet Connections
These collaborations reflect her versatility and dedication to supporting new plays and diverse artistic voices.
Leadership Across the Theatre Community
Beyond directing and producing, Heather Cohn has remained actively involved in professional theatre organizations.
She serves as a Board Member of the League of Professional Theatre Women (LPTW) and co chairs the organization’s Task Force for trans inclusion, supporting greater equity and representation within the performing arts.
She has also participated in the Producers’ LAB with WP Theatre, continuing her professional development alongside fellow theatre leaders.
Education
Heather Cohn graduated from Vassar College, where she majored in Latin American Studies. During her studies, she spent time living in both Cuba and Chile, experiences that contributed to her broader cultural perspective and continue to inform her collaborative approach to theatre and community engagement.
Lasting Impact
Heather Cohn has built a career that combines artistic excellence with nonprofit leadership. Through her work with En Garde Arts, Flux Theatre Ensemble, and numerous theatre organizations, she has helped develop original productions, support playwrights, strengthen arts institutions, and encourage inclusive practices across the theatre community.
Her ongoing contributions continue to make her an influential figure in American theatre, particularly within New York’s nonprofit and Off Off Broadway landscape.
