Summary
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Kai A. Taranto

Midlothian,VA
Kai A. Taranto

Summary

Self-motivated stage manager with proven leadership skills in synchronizing productions. Talented in managing technical and performance logistics from the planning stages through the run of the show. Personable throughout the life of the project when communicating with others to solve issues that arise.

Work History

TheaterCNU

Production Stage Manager
09.2023 - 12.2023

Job overview

  • Worked with director to develop effective use of rehearsal times.
  • Remained composed and highly professional in fast-paced and constantly changing environment, effectively handling challenging situations and difficult individuals to achieve objectives.
  • Participated in meetings with producers and production crew to keep program in step with creative vision.

TheaterCNU

Assistant Stage Manager
09.2022 - 02.2023

Job overview

  • Coordinated paperwork for stage manager and production team.
  • Prepared rehearsal studio by gathering set furniture, props and costumes.
  • Collaborated with technical crew and cast to safeguard presentation of artistic vision.
  • Helped to manage two productions over the course of five months.

TheaterCNU

Carpenter
01.2022 - Current

Job overview

  • Interpreted groundplans to build various set pieces under the instruction and supervision of the Technical Director.
  • Trained in the usage of various power tools, including the chop saw, radial arm saw, staple gun, and others.
  • Collaborated with other carpenters to ensure timely completion of projects.

Rockwood Nature Center

Animal Care Assistant
03.2022 - 08.2022

Job overview

  • Provided care for the reptiles and amphibians present in the nature center, under the instruction of the Animal Care Supervisor.
  • Maintained clean, neat, and operational facilities to serve program needs.
  • Provided humane care of domestic and wild animals.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Seasonal Scare Actor
08.2021 - 10.2021

Job overview

  • Improvised character presentation and conversations with guests to provide immersive experience.
  • Teamed on clean up of set and location at end of performance to prepare for next performance.
  • Worked with various special effects, fog, strobes and loud sounds.

Education

Christopher Newport University
Newport News, VA

Bachelor of Arts from Theater
05.2026

University Overview

  • Concentrations in Musical Theater and Design/Technical Theater
  • Thomas N. Hunnicutt, III Endowed Scholarship in Music Theater Recipient
  • CNU Commonwealth Leadership Scholarship Recipient
  • Alpha Psi Omega Member

Skills

  • Team Communications
  • Managing Production Logistics
  • Strong Leadership
  • Technical Knowledge
  • Scheduling Meetings and Rehearsals
  • Adaptability
  • Set Construction
  • Rehearsal Supervision

Timeline

Production Stage Manager
TheaterCNU
09.2023 - 12.2023
Assistant Stage Manager
TheaterCNU
09.2022 - 02.2023
Animal Care Assistant
Rockwood Nature Center
03.2022 - 08.2022
Carpenter
TheaterCNU
01.2022 - Current
Seasonal Scare Actor
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
08.2021 - 10.2021
Christopher Newport University
Bachelor of Arts from Theater
Kai A. Taranto