Maura Tighe

Maura Tighe is a theater director, arts leader, educator, and casting professional with more than two decades of experience across theater, film, television, and arts education. She joins SpeakEasy Stage as General Manager after serving as Artistic Director of Boston Arts Academy, where she led the theater program and championed access to high-quality arts education for young artists.

A graduate of Emerson College with a BFA in Theatre, Maura began her career in New York City as a stage manager and assistant director on high-profile productions before moving into directing new works, experimental theater, musical revues, and Off-Off Broadway productions. Since returning to Boston, she has directed numerous productions at Boston Arts Academy and theaters throughout New England.

In addition to her work as a director, Maura built a successful career in film and television casting, founding Maura Tighe Casting. Her professional credits include feature films, independent productions, the original Queer Eye, and projects for PBS/WGBH, Bravo, Oxygen, and ABC Family, among others. Through her work as a casting director, entrepreneur, and private acting and voice coach, she developed a deep commitment to nurturing artists at every stage of their careers.

After 10 years of coaching performers for television and film, Maura joined Boston Arts Academy as a full-time faculty member, eventually rising to Artistic Director. Her work at BAA brought together her passions for theater making, mentorship, diversity and inclusion, and community engagement, while providing opportunities to lead teams, produce ambitious theatrical works, and advocate for equitable access to the arts.

A respected educator and arts advocate, Maura has lectured at Boston College, UMass, Emerson College, and Brandeis University. Throughout her career, she has remained dedicated to building inclusive, collaborative creative environments and fostering meaningful connections between artists, audiences, and community.

Photo Credit: Nile Scott Studio