Although the duties of Artistic Directors of not-for-profit regional theatres in the United States are similar, the job description varies according to the management structure, mission of the theatre, and personal style of the individual holding the job. This thesis serves as a report and a subjective overview of an observership with Fred Chappell, Artistic Director of The Alliance Theatre Company/Atlanta Children's Theatre; David Head, Artistic Director of the Theatrical Outfit; and Frank Wittow, Artistic Director of The Academy Theatre. Each chapter contains: (1) a brief history and description of each theatre company; (2) the mission statement of each theatre; (3) biographical information regarding each Artistic Director; and (4) a subjective overview of the observation at each theatre. Complete transcripts of the interviews are included in Appendices A, B, and C of this thesis. / Master of Fine Arts