Garrett Volpendesta
Burlington,WI
Summary
Dynamic leader and innovative choreographer with a proven track record at The Academy of Performing Arts and Six Flags Great America. Excelled in team management and creative program development, boosting team morale and enhancing performance quality. Skilled in staff development and problem-solving, Developing dancers of all ages and levels to being the best versions of themselves in several styles of dance.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Competitive Dance Director
The Academy of Performing Arts
06.2017 - Current
- Started as a competitive coach for the hip hop teams and was promoted to director in 2020
- Cultivated and strengthened lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
- Strengthened internal controls by reviewing existing policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Work with dancers on their dance technique through a variety of offered technique classes as well as private lessons
- Set choreography on competitive teams, solos, duets and trios in a variety of styles including: hip hop, lyrical, jazz, musical theater, and contemporary.
- Worked with recreational program to help develop dancers to feed into our competitive program.
Dance Instructor
The Dance Factory
07.2005 - 06.2024
- Planned routines for recitals and performances.
- Fostered a supportive learning environment by promoting positive reinforcement and constructive feedback.
- Created healthy and safe learning environment for all students by implementing class rules and promoting mutual respect and gentle discipline.
- Worked in team-based environment to uphold quality and continuity of service to clients.
- Utilized different styles of teaching to accommodate students of all capabilities.
- Planned, prepared, and delivered lesson plans introducing students to dance techniques in hip hop, tap, jazz, lyrical.
- Offered one-on-one instruction to students by appointment.
- Collaborated with fellow instructors to plan and execute successful recitals showcasing students'' progress and achievements.
- Facilitated workshops for advanced dancers, refining technique and enhancing overall performance quality.
- Directed and Coached competitive program for several years while under employment.
- Organized special events such as masterclasses featuring guest artists, exposing students to new perspectives within the dance world.
Performer/Supervisor/Choreographer
Six Flags Great America
05.2008 - 11.2018
- Maintained physical fitness and vocal health to consistently deliver high-quality performances under demanding conditions.
- Enhanced audience engagement by incorporating dynamic performance techniques and innovative stage presence.
- Adapted quickly to changes in scripts or direction, demonstrating flexibility as an actor under tight deadlines or last-minute adjustments.
- Collaborated with other directors to develop compelling character portrayals, resulting in memorable performances.
- Studied and rehearsed roles from scripts to interpret and memorize lines and cues.
- Provided constructive feedback to peers during rehearsals, promoting growth as performers while strengthening group dynamics.
- Sang and danced with creative ensembles and troupes for dramatic and comedic performances.
- Contributed creative ideas during script development sessions, enhancing storyline continuity and character depth.
- Established rapport with fellow cast members, fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment.
- Mastered diverse roles across various genres, showcasing versatility and adaptability as a performer.
- Received critical acclaim for exceptional acting abilities, contributing to the success of multiple productions.
- Mentored aspiring performers through workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions, sharing valuable insights from years of professional experience.
- Assisted in set design and wardrobe selection processes, ensuring seamless integration of visual elements into performances.
- Promoted productions through interviews, social media engagement, and public appearances, boosting ticket sales and visibility.
- Served as understudy for lead roles seamlessly stepping when needed maintaining production''s integrity without compromising show''s overall quality.
- Assisted in the casting process by reviewing audition tapes and providing input on potential talent, helping to assemble strong ensemble casts.
- Performed live shows at various venues throughout the park.
- Engaged with audiences to create memorable experiences at live performances.
- Directed rehearsal sessions for cast and crew to prepare for upcoming performances.
- Collaborated with other entertainers to create engaging acts.
- Managed variety of technical equipment used in performances.
- Created choreography for individual and group performances.
- Developed show concepts and themes to engage audience members.
- Managed stage crew to deliver smooth, successful performances.
- Oversaw daily operations of the department, ensuring smooth workflow and timely completion of tasks.
- Applied strong leadership talents and problem-solving skills to maintain team efficiency and organize workflows.
- Resolved conflicts among team members promptly, maintaining a harmonious working environment conducive to productivity.
- Enhanced communication within the team by holding regular meetings and encouraging open dialogue among all members.
- Conducted performance evaluations for staff members, identifying areas of improvement and guiding professional development plans.
- Reduced employee turnover by fostering a positive work environment and providing ongoing feedback to staff members.
Education
No Degree - BFA Theater
UW Whitewater
Whitewater, WIDance
The Dance Factory
Delavan, WIDiploma For Pharmaceutical Technician - Pharmaceuticals
Gateway Technical College
Kenosha, WI05.2012
High School Diploma -
Big Foot High School
Walworth, WI05.2008
Skills
- Team Management
- Creativity and Innovation in choreography
- Strategies and goals
- Project Coordination
- Staff Management
- Staff Development
- Issues Resolution
- Program Management
- Charismatic Leader
- Goal Setting
- Class Management
Timeline
Competitive Dance Director
The Academy of Performing Arts
06.2017 - Current
Performer/Supervisor/Choreographer
Six Flags Great America
05.2008 - 11.2018
Dance Instructor
The Dance Factory
07.2005 - 06.2024
No Degree - BFA Theater
UW Whitewater
Dance
The Dance Factory
Diploma For Pharmaceutical Technician - Pharmaceuticals
Gateway Technical College
High School Diploma -
Big Foot High School
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