Creative director and production designer with expertise in film direction and visual storytelling. Demonstrated success in leading teams to produce award-winning projects through innovative collaboration. Experience in stage direction, set design, costuming, Waldorf pedagogy and curriculum. Effective communication and problem-solving with lower and upper grade students. Strong leadership abilities ensure projects are community appropriate, inclusive and completed successfully with a focus on artistry and aesthetics.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director-Producer-Production Designer
Independent Contractor - Self Employed
Sacramento, San Francisco, Eugene
01.1994 - Current
Wrote, produced, directed feature length and short films, commercials, music videos and industrials from concept to final cut.
Projects have premiered at annual film festivals nationally and have won awards.
Collaborated with other directors to create artistic concepts and visual themes.
Designed work to meet project vision, specifications and direction.
Designed and oversaw all set installation, lighting and prop procurement.
Facilitated and directed rehearsals to enhance actor performances and scene dynamics.
Coordinated with editors during post-production to refine film structure.
Tackled issues with crew members and actors immediately to achieve quick and effective resolution while keeping projects on schedule.
Coordinated and managed all pre-production functions from hiring cast, scheduling crew to securing locations and permits.
Created budgets and monitored spending throughout the productions.
Sourced, scouted and evaluated locations to determine suitability for shooting.
Worked closely with costume designers to select wardrobe pieces that matched characters' personalities and time periods.
Guided cinematographers in visual storytelling techniques and shot composition.
Researched historical events or cultural references relevant to specific scenes in order to provide accurate details.
Production Designer
The Great Dickens Christmas Fair
San Francisco
09.2004 - 03.2023
Designed and implemented this beloved holiday-themed event.
Coordinated construction teams and decorators to build and install sets, props and decor in over 200,000 square feet.
Managed project vision, timelines and resources to deliver designs on schedule and within budget constraints.
Managed prop selection and placement. Researched historical references to enhance design period accuracy, contributing to the authentic visual experience.
Researched art and architecture pertaining to time period depicted.
Researched and developed innovative design solutions that met client objectives.
Oversaw budget allocation for set materials and resources effectively.
Ensured compliance with safety regulations in all design projects at Red Barn Productions.
Coordinated with external vendors during pre-build stages of production process.
Special Event Designer "Polar Express"
Sacramento Railroad Museum Foundation
Sacramento
10.2009 - 10.2016
Re-designed and built this popular holiday fundraising event using vintage train cars and Sacramento's historical passenger station.
Collaborated with vendors to source materials and decor for event.
Managed timelines to ensure timely completion.
Supervised setup and teardown.
Created mood boards and models to convey design concepts effectively.
Tracked expenses for materials and services to assist in budgeting.
Conducted site visits before events to assess space suitability and safety.
Analyzed data from past events to identify improvement opportunities.
Drama Teacher
Eugene Waldorf School
Eugene
04.1993 - 06.1999
Led students through script and character development techniques.
Organized auditions and rehearsals, ensuring smooth progression of school performances.
Collaborated with faculty and parents.
Evaluated student performance using constructive feedback and assessments.
Provided individual coaching sessions for students requiring additional support.
Participated in costume, set design, lighting and prop procurement for class plays.
Coordinated schedule with parents regarding afterschool rehearsals and performances.
Installation Designer
Sacramento History Museum
Sacramento
Designed engaging exhibits showcasing local history and culture.
Thoroughly researched design topics and studied information pertaining to topics.
Assisted in the planning and execution of community outreach events.
Conducted research on historical artifacts to inform design choices.
Participated in team meetings to brainstorm innovative design concepts and strategies.
Education
Foundation Year Certificate - Waldorf Education
Eugene Waldorf Teacher Training Program
Eugene, OR
06-1999
Internship - TV/Film Production
PBS KVIE Channel 6
Sacramento, CA
12-1984
High School Diploma -
Sacramento Waldorf School
Sacramento, CA
06-1982
Courses - Theater Arts, Fine Art
American River College
Sacramento, CA
Skills
Waldorf curriculum knowledge, background and experience
Stage direction
Set design
Costume design
Lesson planning
Artistic collaboration
Creative movement, speech and improv instruction
Feedback delivery and evaluation
Decision-making and coaching
Awareness in structure, rhythm and flexibility
Engaging storytelling techniques
Understanding of temperaments
Multitasking abilities in theater/film production
Cast, crew, student supervision and collaboration
Conflict resolution strategies
Creative problem-solving
Budgeting
Understanding the unique social construct of a Waldorf School community