Dallas Theater Center to Merge with AT&T Performing Arts Center by 2027

The AT&T Performing Arts Center (ATTPAC) and the Dallas Theater Center (DTC) announced a merger planned for early 2027, aiming to reduce costs and expand programming amid post-pandemic financial strain. ATTPAC president Warren Tranquada cited a challenged theater market, while DTC executive director Kevin Moriarty will leave after 19 years; newly hired artistic director Jaime Castañeda will continue producing DTC seasons. The merger will eliminate redundancies, resulting in 10–12% staff layoffs (combined staff of ~124). DTC lost $2.2 million in fiscal 2025; ATTPAC lost $1.5 million. DTC will become ATTPAC's producing division, consolidating administrative offices. Subscriptions will be packaged across a wider range of shows, including DTC's annual A Christmas Carol. The merger builds on industry cost-saving collaborations, like DTC's co-productions with Stage West. DTC has been independent since 1983 and won a Regional Theater Tony Award in 2017. ATTPAC will launch a capital campaign for transition costs. Executive committees approved exploration; full board votes expected by January 2027.