Julia Steenstra
Kissimmee,FL
Summary
Professionally trained and experienced manager, director, trainer, and theatrical designer working currently as an Guest Experience Manager with Beyond Parks Entertainment and Magic Kingdom Character operations, with previous experience as an Assistant Stage Manger for Universal Entertainment Production Marquee Events and has lead a team of stage managers and directors with Doghouse Ensemble Theatre. Possess great multitasking and leadership skills and has a passion for learning, with a focus in supporting cast members using strong analytical and administrative skills, as well as a proficiency in many computer systems, in addition to verbal and written communication.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Guest Experience Manager
Beyond Parks Entertainment and Magic Kingdom
09.2022 - Current
- Supervises and supports the daily operation of Entertainment cast members at Beyond Parks Dining locations, DPI operation, and unique character meeting opportunities, as well as the Magic Kingdom Character operation.
- Worked closely with DEG and DCE to organize events such as the 2022 CA Grill New Years Eve Celebration and 2022 Holiday offerings at the Resorts and performed the role of in field MOD.
- Supports DPI, Technicians, and Performers (STCU and Equity), offers administrative support, and is familiar with their collective bargaining agreements with TWDC.
- Plans and develops meet and greet and character interaction opportunities for children of all ages through creating set schedules, safety plans, and having an open line of communication with Costuming, Casting, Training, and Scheduling.
Co-Artistic Director
Doghouse Ensemble Theatre
01.2017 - 09.2021
- Coordinated the theatrical season with co-artistic directors through analyzing relevant themes, proposed locations, casting availability, scheduling conflicts, and other key factors in producing a successful season.
- Maintained professional relationships with sponsors and company members.
- Organized and maintained the budget for multiple productions at a time, also assisted with fundraising and finding producers for productions.
- Determined eligibility of company members (hold interviews, auditions, contacting resources, etc) in order to maintain the vision of the company.
Assistant Stage Manager
Halloween Horror Nights - Universal Studios Orlano
Orlando, FL
07.2023 - 11.2023
- Built documentation for both the scare zone and Opening Moment "scare-amonies" including but not limited to: character grids, safety information, evacuation plans, contingency plans, recognition, and administrative assistance for team members.
- Assisted with the partnership with Universal Media including Today Show, Universal Orlando Instagram and website, and various individual social media accounts.
- Was the point of contact for medical situations involving the cast including assisting cast with receiving company-provided medical treatment and partnering with EMS and Health Services personnel for cast and guests.
- Partners with technicians, costumers, make up artists, and Security throughout the night to troubleshoot problems as they arise.
- Became well-versed in USO and Marquee Events policies and procedures.
Education
Bachelors of General Studies - Arts, Media, And Entertainment
University of Arizona
12.2021
High School Diploma - Theatre
Interlochen Arts Academy
05.2016
Acting, Directing, and Technical Design
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, ILSkills
- High level of proficiency with Microsoft products, TWCD and USO products
- Proficient in French
- Experience traveling for work, has a passport
- Has 3 years of Theme Park management experience, as well as an additional 4 years of combined entertainment and recreation leadership experiences
Affiliations
- Jim Harvey Leadership award (2016) for the work done with the outside community as a Theatre Arts Assistant and being a leader for classmates in the department.
- Upstart Crow award (2014) for showing active engagement in multiple areas of theatre and aiding outside projects.
Timeline
Assistant Stage Manager
Halloween Horror Nights - Universal Studios Orlano
07.2023 - 11.2023
Guest Experience Manager
Beyond Parks Entertainment and Magic Kingdom
09.2022 - Current
Co-Artistic Director
Doghouse Ensemble Theatre
01.2017 - 09.2021
Acting, Directing, and Technical Design
Northern Illinois University
High School Diploma - Theatre
Interlochen Arts Academy
Bachelors of General Studies - Arts, Media, And Entertainment
University of Arizona