Michael J. Bobbitt is the Executive Director of the Mass Cultural Council, the highest-ranking public official for arts and culture in Massachusetts. Since 2021, he has spearheaded major initiatives, including the agency’s first Racial Equity Plan, d/Deaf & Disability Equity and Access Plan, and Native American & Indigenous Equity Plan. He led the launch of the nation’s first statewide Social Prescribing Initiative and oversaw the distribution of $60.1 million in pandemic relief funds. In recognition of his impact, he was named to the Boston Business Journal’s Power 50 Movement Makers list and appointed to Governor Maura Healey’s Advisory Councils on Black Empowerment and Cultural Policy.
Previously, Michael was Artistic Director of New Repertory Theatre and, for 12 years, Adventure Theatre-MTC, where he transformed it into a nationally recognized Theatre for Young Audiences. He has directed and choreographed at major institutions, including Arena Stage, Ford’s Theatre, The Kennedy Center, and internationally. Michael’s arts management training includes Harvard Business School, Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Cornell University and is an MBA candidate. He has served as an Associate Professor at Boston Conservatory at Berklee and Howard University and was on the New England Foundation for the Arts Board. Among his many accolades, he received the Kennedy Center Gold Medallion, was named one of Boston’s Most Influential Men of Color, and was inducted into the College of Fellows of the American Theatre. His plays are published by Concord Theatricals/Rodgers & Hammerstein Theatricals. He has also received the Excel Leadership Award, Mass Opera’s Action Bearing Award, and Origi Nation’s Sojourner Truth Award. With a career spanning leadership, directing, and writing, Michael remains dedicated to advancing equity, innovation, and sustainability in the arts.
