KRISSY CANASTAR
South Dennis,MA
Summary
Versatile and results-oriented arts educator and program leader with extensive experience in theater instruction, curriculum design, and student-focused program development. Skilled at directing performances, managing after-school and auxiliary programs, and fostering collaboration and creative growth among students. Adept at operations management, staff mentorship, scheduling, and community partnership development. Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills with a proven ability to design and implement programs that engage diverse learners, support institutional goals, and enhance the student and community experience.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Entrepreneur and Owner
Well Poured
01.2024 - Current
- Launched and operated a full-service mobile bar business, handling all aspects of operations, marketing, and event execution.
- Develop client relationships and partnerships with event venues, wedding planners, and corporate clients.
- Oversee staffing, inventory management, and compliance with beverage service regulations.
Director of Auxiliary Programs (program director)
Cambridge Montessori School
Cambridge, MA
01.2023 - Current
- Led and managed all auxiliary programs, including summer camps, after-school activities, and community partnerships
- Managed budgeting, revenue forecasting, and program profitability while ensuring compliance with financial policies
- Contributed to strategic planning initiatives supporting institutional growth and program expansion
- Developed and implemented programming to enhance student engagement while meeting institutional goals
- Utilized CampBrain and other administrative platforms to streamline scheduling, registration, and communication
- Managed day-to-day operations of a large-scale summer program, overseeing staff, logistics, and program execution
- Implemented policies to improve camper safety, staffing efficiency, and program development
- Built and maintained community partnerships to expand program offerings and increase program visibility
Event Coordinator & Assistant Bar Manager
Central Public House
10.2018 - 01.2025
- Planned, coordinated, and executed private events and large-scale gatherings, ensuring seamless logistics and high-quality service.
- Develop custom beverage menus and manage inventory for special events.
- Supervise bar staff, providing training and leadership to maintain efficiency and uphold service standards.
- Handle client relations, coordinating with event hosts to ensure their vision and needs are met.
- Coordinated logistics for events, ensuring seamless execution and attendee satisfaction.
- Developed event timelines and managed schedules to optimize resource allocation.
Drama Teacher
Quinn Middle School
Hudson, MA
08.2022 - 01.2023
- Designed and managed creative programs, fostering engagement, collaboration, and innovation.
- Produced large-scale events and performances, overseeing planning, logistics, and execution.
- Developed cross-functional initiatives, collaborating with multiple departments to enhance program impact.
- Created inclusive training programs, incorporating diverse perspectives and adapting to various learning styles.
- Leveraged technology and interactive methodologies to improve engagement and participation.
- Implemented process improvements and structured leadership strategies to maintain a productive, high-performing environment.
Drama Teacher
Ashland Middle School
Ashland, MA
01.2020 - 06.2022
- Delivered engaging middle school theater instruction focused on acting fundamentals, voice, movement, and stage presence
- Developed age-appropriate lesson plans aligned with curricular goals and student development
- Led after-school drama club productions, overseeing rehearsals, blocking, and live performances
- Strengthened and expanded the theater program by increasing student participation
- Established a partnership with the high school theater program, providing mentorship, technical theater support, and leadership opportunities for older students
- Fostered student confidence, teamwork, and creative growth through performance-based learning
- Organized and coordinated performances for school programs and family audiences
Drama Teacher
Wellan (formerly Newton Montessori)
Newton, MA
08.2015 - 01.2019
- Taught theater arts to students in grades K–8, adapting instruction to meet a wide range of developmental levels
- Planned and delivered age-appropriate curriculum focused on performance skills, creativity, and collaboration
- Directed approximately 10 theatrical performances annually, including class showcases and school productions
- Founded and developed an after-school theater program, expanding student participation and engagement
- Led all aspects of the after-school program, including curriculum design, rehearsals, and performance coordination
- Built the program into a high-enrollment offering that generated significant revenue for the school
- Collaborated with school administration to support scheduling, budgeting, and program sustainability
- Fostered a positive, inclusive environment that encouraged confidence, teamwork, and student growth
Casting Director
Beth Melsky Casting
New York, NY
01.2000 - 01.2011
- Led talent acquisition and project coordination for various productions.
- Managed large-scale audition processes, working directly with clients to align casting with creative vision.
Education
M.Ed. - Education
Lesley University
Cambridge, MA01.2008
B.F.A. - Acting
Marymount College
New York, NY01.1999
Certificate - 15 Credits - Teaching English As A Second Language
Worcester State
Worcester, MA05-2022
Skills
- Program & Operations Management (summer camps, after-school programs, auxiliary programs)
- Event Planning & Logistics Coordination (performances, community events, large-scale programs)
- Budgeting, Financial Oversight & Revenue Forecasting
- Staff Training, Leadership Development & Mentorship
- Stakeholder Engagement & Communication (families, administration, students, community partners)
- Software & Platforms: CampBrain, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides), scheduling & registration platforms, student information systems
Certification
- English as a Second Language (ESL) Certification (K-12)
- Licensed Theatre Educator (Massachusetts)
Timeline
Entrepreneur and Owner
Well Poured
01.2024 - Current
Director of Auxiliary Programs (program director)
Cambridge Montessori School
01.2023 - Current
Drama Teacher
Quinn Middle School
08.2022 - 01.2023
Drama Teacher
Ashland Middle School
01.2020 - 06.2022
Event Coordinator & Assistant Bar Manager
Central Public House
10.2018 - 01.2025
Drama Teacher
Wellan (formerly Newton Montessori)
08.2015 - 01.2019
Casting Director
Beth Melsky Casting
01.2000 - 01.2011
B.F.A. - Acting
Marymount College
M.Ed. - Education
Lesley University
Certificate - 15 Credits - Teaching English As A Second Language
Worcester State