Leah Barish

Leah brings over ten years of experience as a development professional to her role as a Global BD Manager at Charcoalblue, including six years working with community-based nonprofit arts organizations as a producer, fundraiser, audience engagement specialist, and grant writer. Leah works closely with Charcoalblue’s leadership, staff, and Marketing & BD team to win work and build meaningful, lasting relationships with colleagues and peers in the arts and culture space.

Before Charcoalblue, Leah was the Managing Director of one of Chicago’s beloved “storefront” theatres, Strawdog Theatre Company, where she wrote grant applications, managed all marketing, oversaw production, managed finances, worked closely with the volunteer board and ensemble, and wore all the other many hats managers of small theatres wear. She also oversaw the renovation and licensing/permitting process for the company’s new venue, giving her a first glimpse of what’s involved in creating a space for people to come together to tell stories and share experiences.

Leah has also worked for some of the San Francisco Bay Area’s most treasured institutions: Berkeley Repertory Theatre, American Conservatory Theatre, and Z Space.

Originally from Austin, TX, and after stints in Rochester, NY, and Berkeley, CA, Leah is affiliated with our Chicago Studio and lives in Oak Park, IL with her husband and two daughters.