Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Lisa L. Garcia Cordes

La Habra,CA

Summary

Dynamic Resident Stage Manager at Cabrillo Playhouse, adept at managing production logistics and fostering team communication. Spearheaded the Integration of new technologies, enhancing performance quality and audience engagement. Recognized for mentoring staff and streamlining rehearsal processes, ensuring seamless transitions during live events while maintaining a positive and productive atmosphere.


Self-motivated Stage Manager with proven leadership skills in expertly 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.


Hardworking and passionate individual with strong organizational skills eager and ready to help team achieve company goals.

Overview

37
37
years of professional experience

Work History

Resident Stage Manager

Cabrillo Playhouse
07.2021 - Current
  • Collaborate with production team to streamline rehearsal processes and enhance performance quality.
  • Facilitate communication between production team members, cast members and technical staff to ensure smooth operations during rehearsals and performances and develop contingency plans to ensure safety and technical issues.
  • Manage stage setup and rehearsal space by gathering set furniture, props, costumes and facilitating seamless transitions during live events.
  • Train and Mentor Interns and Junior Staff in stage management protocols and safety procedures.
  • Manage auditions and coordinate callbacks.
  • Provide support to directors in achieving their artistic vision and enhance collaboration among team members using effective communication skills during stressful situations or tight deadlines.
  • Promote a positive company culture by fostering open communication channels between cast members, creative teams, and technical staff.
  • Spearhead the implementation of new technology into productions when appropriate to elevate overall visual appeal or streamline processes further behind-the-scenes operations.
  • Improve communication between departments by creating comprehensive documentation for each production''s technical requirements.
  • Coordinate technical rehearsals efficiently, ensuring smooth integration of lighting, sound, and special effects elements.
  • Ensure seamless transitions between scenes by supervising set changes, prop placements, and actor movements.
  • Oversee backstage operations, managing personnel assignments while maintaining a calm atmosphere conducive to productivity even under pressure.
  • Collaborate with technical crew and cast to safeguard presentation of artistic vision.


Lighting Technician:

  • Operate lighting systems for live events, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
  • Collaborate with production teams to design and implement lighting setups tailored to event specifications.
  • Assist in programming lighting cues for performances, enhancing visual storytelling and audience engagement.
  • Contribute to the success of various productions by working closely with other departments, fostering a collaborative environment focused on creating memorable experiences for audiences.
  • Troubleshot complex technical issues during live events, ensuring minimal disruption to the audience experience.


Audio Visual Technician:

  • Operate sound equipment for live events, ensuring optimal audio quality and performance.
  • Collaborate with artists and production teams to achieve desired sound outcomes.
  • Assist in setting up and dismantling audio equipment for various events and performances.
  • Troubleshoot technical issues during events, providing quick resolutions to minimize disruptions.
  • Control microphones, sound levels and outputs to produce high-quality tracks for variety of clients..
  • Work closely with lighting technicians to create immersive experiences that combined both visual and auditory elements effectively.
  • Operated and troubleshot sound systems for various events.

Trout in the Classroom Instructor

California Department Of Fish And Wildlife
06.2017 - Current
  • Certified Trout in the Classroom Instructor at Rivera Middle School through the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
  • Hatch and Raise approximately 100 "eye" (Rainbow Trout fish eggs) annually.
  • Develop and implement engaging curriculum focused on environmental science and wildlife conservation.
  • Organize Rainbow Trout Release Day Saturday Field Study Trips of surviving Rainbow "Fry" at local wildlife reserves in order to increase the Rainbow Trout population while decreasing their threatened status and enhancing experiential learning opportunities for students, their parents, and other family members.
  • Facilitate hands-on learning experiences in natural habitats to enhance student understanding of ecosystems while learning how to fly-fish, create fishing flies (lures), thread and cast their rods from local Fly Fisherman Organization members.
  • Collaborate with local organizations to promote conservation initiatives and foster community involvement.
  • Take, analyze, and evaluate water samples from the local lake on release day in an effort to improve awareness and foster life long conservation awareness and the role we play in the environment.
  • Evaluate student progress through assessments and provided constructive feedback to support academic growth.
  • Establish clear objectives for lessons, units, projects and communicated objectives to students.
  • Foster student curiosity and interest through creative hands-on activities.
  • Adapt teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs.
  • Boost student engagement through the use of interactive classroom activities, multimedia resources, and community experts as trainers and/or guest speakers on wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and reintroduction into their natural habitat.

Robotics and Engineering Teacher

Rivera Middle School
09.2011 - Current
  • Developed and implemented innovative engineering curriculum to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
  • Integrated hands-on projects and real-world applications to reinforce theoretical concepts in engineering education.
  • Mentored students through complex engineering problems, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Collaborated with faculty to design interdisciplinary projects that align with industry standards and educational goals.
  • Designed and implemented robotics curriculum to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
  • Facilitated hands-on workshops to develop students' problem-solving and critical-thinking skills in robotics.
  • Mentored students in programming languages, fostering technical proficiency and innovation.
  • Collaborated with faculty to integrate robotics into interdisciplinary projects, promoting teamwork and creativity.
  • Evaluated student performance through assessments, providing constructive feedback for improvement.
  • Organized robotics competitions, encouraging teamwork and showcasing student projects to the community.
  • Collaborated with fellow teachers to develop interdisciplinary lesson plans, fostering a comprehensive learning experience.
  • Implemented regular check-ins with individual students to assess their understanding of course material and address any difficulties they may be experiencing.
  • Managed classroom resources effectively, ensuring all students had access to necessary materials and technology for successful completion of robotics projects.
  • Incorporated guest speakers from local tech companies into lessons, exposing students to potential career paths within the field of robotics.
  • Led after-school clubs focused on specific aspects of robotics engineering, providing additional opportunities for interested students to explore their passions further.
  • Utilized innovative teaching methods, such as flipped classrooms and project-based learning, to boost student engagement in robotics concepts.
  • Introduced high-level programming languages like Python or C++ to prepare advanced students for college courses or careers requiring such skills within the realm of robotics engineering.
  • Inspired creativity among students by encouraging innovation during project-building sessions while emphasizing the importance of teamwork in a collaborative setting.
  • Secured funding for new equipment and software upgrades through grant proposals and community partnerships, enhancing the overall quality of the robotics program.
  • Developed strong relationships with parents and guardians, keeping them informed about student progress and addressing any concerns promptly.
  • Prepared students for success in regional and national robotics competitions by coaching teams through design, programming, and troubleshooting processes.
  • Provided personalized feedback on assignments and assessments, aiding students in identifying areas for improvement within their robotics studies.
  • Established a safe and inclusive classroom environment where all students felt comfortable participating and sharing ideas related to robotics topics.
  • Provided support to struggling learners through one-on-one tutoring sessions and targeted interventions, fostering academic growth in robotics concepts.
  • Attended professional development technology courses to increase knowledge base and learn new information.

Theatre Production Manager

Mysterium Theatre
10.2009 - Current
  • Oversaw daily theater operations, ensuring smooth performances and guest satisfaction.
  • Managed scheduling for staff and performers, optimizing resource allocation.
  • Developed marketing strategies to increase audience engagement and ticket sales.
  • Trained and mentored staff in customer service best practices and operational procedures.
  • Collaborated with production teams to coordinate event logistics and technical requirements.
  • Contributed to revenue growth with strategic marketing initiatives and promotional campaigns that attracted new audiences.
  • Implemented safety procedures and protocols, maintaining a secure environment for staff, performers, and patrons alike.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers to secure optimal pricing on essential goods and services for the theater.
  • Developed and maintained strong relationships with local businesses, securing sponsorships and partnerships for theater events.
  • Enhanced patron experience through excellent customer service and timely resolution of issues or concerns.
  • Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
  • Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
  • Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.
  • Reported issues to higher management with great detail.
  • Raised accuracy and accountability by creating organization tracking methods of team members, cast members, props, set pieces, and theater properties.

Science Teacher

Rivera Middle School
09.1998 - Current
  • Developed comprehensive lesson plans aligned with state standards and student learning objectives.
  • Implemented innovative teaching strategies to enhance student engagement and understanding of complex scientific concepts.
  • Designed and conducted hands-on experiments to foster critical thinking and practical application of scientific theories.
  • Evaluated student performance through various assessment methods, providing constructive feedback for improvement.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to create interdisciplinary projects that integrate science with other subjects, promoting holistic education.
  • Mentored new teachers in classroom management techniques and effective instructional practices to improve overall teaching quality.
  • Led professional development workshops focused on integrating technology into science curriculum delivery for enhanced learning outcomes.
  • Advocated for curriculum improvements based on student needs, ensuring relevance and adaptability in teaching methodologies.
  • Planned, prepared, and taught lesson plans, giving students individual support.
  • Delivered interactive lessons to help students comprehend complex concepts.
  • Participated in professional development workshops to stay updated on current research findings and best practices in science education.
  • Incorporated project-based learning into the curriculum, challenging students to apply scientific principles in real-world situations while developing teamwork skills.
  • Enhanced classroom environment for effective learning by incorporating hands-on activities and real-world applications of scientific concepts.
  • Established clear expectations for behavior and academic performance; consistently enforced policies while maintaining fairness and respect toward all students.
  • Designed innovative science curricula to engage students and promote critical thinking.
  • Implemented inquiry-based learning techniques in the classroom, promoting curiosity and active engagement among students.
  • Provided constructive feedback on assignments, helping students improve their critical thinking and problem-solving skills in science.
  • Led after-school tutoring sessions for struggling learners; provided personalized support that contributed to marked improvements in overall understanding of course material.
  • Encouraged student participation in laboratory experiments to enhance scientific knowledge.
  • Communicated with students and parents regarding academic progress, assignments, and behavior.
  • Demonstrated positive and effective classroom management skills.
  • Cultivated positive relationships with students, parents and staff to optimize instruction and support learning outcomes.
  • Championed a positive classroom culture where questions were encouraged and mistakes viewed as learning opportunities, boosting overall student confidence in their abilities as scientists.
  • Encouraged student interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and participation in middle and high school national science competitions.
  • Organized field trips and guest speakers to expose students to various career opportunities within the scientific community, inspiring future scientists.
  • Coordinated with school administration to maintain laboratory safety standards, ensuring secure environment for experiments.
  • Mentored new teachers, providing guidance on classroom management, lesson planning, and effective teaching strategies.
  • Increased student engagement in STEM subjects by organizing science fairs and guest speaker events.
  • Secured grants for classroom resources, including lab equipment and educational technology, enriching learning experience.
  • Assisted in development of extracurricular activities and special events.

Science Field Study Instructor

Rivera Middle School
09.1990 - Current
  • Organized extracurricular activities that enriched students'' educational experience beyond the classroom setting at both The Catalina Island Marine Institute (CIMI) and AstroCamp (Space Camp) 3-day/2-night camping programs .
  • Developed engaging lesson plans to enhance student learning and retention
  • Organized educational field trips that expanded campers' exposure to real-world science applications outside the classroom.
  • Implemented classroom management strategies to foster a positive learning environment
  • Facilitated engaging science experiments for diverse groups of campers, enhancing their understanding of scientific concepts.
  • Developed and implemented creative lesson plans that promoted hands-on learning and fostered camper curiosity.
  • Collaborated with parents and staff to support student growth and achievement
  • Promoted a positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations and maintaining consistent classroom management techniques.
  • Initiated new learning methods, eliminating instructional gaps and improving comprehension.
  • Organized field trips to local museums, observatories, and nature reserves, enriching the overall camp experience.
  • Monitored camper safety and well-being during activities, ensuring a secure environment for exploration and learning.
  • Evaluated camper progress and provided constructive feedback to encourage growth and development in scientific skills.
  • Led team-building exercises that improved group dynamics and encouraged positive peer interactions among campers.
  • Maintained accurate records of camper attendance, performance data, and completed projects for future reference and improvement measures.
  • Collaborated with fellow counselors to create cohesive lesson plans and ensure smooth transitions between sessions.
  • Kept track of allergies and dietary restrictions, verifying correct meals and snacks were given to campers.
  • Established positive relationships with parents, keeping them informed of their child''s progress throughout the camp session.
  • Designed creative projects that allowed campers to apply learned theories to real-world situations.
  • Coordinated end-of-camp presentations showcasing camper accomplishments in front of parents and peers alike.

Drama Teacher

Rivera Middle School
09.1988 - 06.2002
  • Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans to enhance student participation in drama activities.
  • Coordinated school-wide theater productions, fostering collaboration among students, staff, and parents.
  • Mentored students in performance techniques, promoting confidence and creativity in stage presentations.
  • Assessed student progress through evaluations and provided constructive feedback for improvement.
  • Integrated diverse theatrical methods to enrich curriculum and accommodate various learning styles.
  • Organized workshops with guest artists to expose students to professional industry practices and insights.
  • Led after-school drama club, encouraging extracurricular involvement and nurturing talent outside the classroom.
  • Collaborated with faculty to align drama curriculum with educational standards and school goals.
  • Implemented effective classroom management techniques to provide safe, calm learning environment.
  • Planned lessons to reflect group and individual student needs utilizing creative instruction.
  • Encouraged students to perform well and learn from failure.
  • Facilitated learning with aids, technology and equipment to stimulate higher-level thinking.
  • Managed Thespian society operations with elected students to promote individual thought and creativity.
  • Expanded program offerings through securing funding grants and developing partnerships with local theaters and arts organizations.
  • Established a safe and inclusive learning environment where students felt comfortable expressing their emotions and ideas.
  • Enhanced student creativity by incorporating improvisation techniques and role-playing activities in lessons.
  • Developed strong relationships with parents, fostering open communication to support student growth and progress.
  • Championed the importance of theater education by presenting at conferences and advocating for school drama programs within the community.
  • Promoted teamwork among cast members during group projects ensuring smooth execution both onstage and behindthescenes.
  • Cultivated a lifelong appreciation for the arts among students, instilling values of creativity, expression, and critical thinking through dynamic instruction.
  • Improved students'' communication skills through targeted public speaking exercises and constructive feedback.
  • Coordinated field trips to professional theater productions to enrich students'' understanding of the art form outside the classroom context.
  • Instructed students on the history of theater, exploring key periods, playwrights, and performance styles from around the world.
  • Organized school-wide drama productions, managing auditions, rehearsals, and technical aspects for successful performances.
  • Assessed student progress through regular quizzes, written assignments, and performance evaluations to ensure continuous improvement.
  • Facilitated workshops on set design, costume creation, lighting, sound engineering for comprehensive exposure to all aspects of theatrical production.
  • Used technology in classrooms to integrate technology and multimedia tools into art lessons and enhance student learning.
  • Provided feedback and grades to provide regular feedback on student progress and assigned grades based on performance.
  • Evaluated and graded students' class work, performances, projects, assignments and papers.
  • Attended concerts and performances to support students and arts community.
  • Scheduled shows and performances in accordance with school calendar.
  • Gathered display materials and distributed programs for shows and performances.

Theater Field Study Teacher

Rivera Middle School
09.1993 - 08.2000
  • Took groups of students to New York's Broadway and Off-Broadway theaters to experience Live Theater and Drama Classes and Camps for 1 week in the summer consecutively until 9/11 hit and our flying privileges thwarted.
  • Assisted in planning and executing performances, fostering creativity among participants.
  • Liaised with community organizations to promote recreational activities.
  • Facilitated daily theater activities, ensuring a safe and engaging environment for campers.
  • Coordinated field trips and guest speakers related to the theater industry, enriching the overall camp experience.
  • Developed lesson plans that catered to diverse skill levels, promoting inclusivity in workshops.
  • Coordinated logistics for rehearsals, optimizing schedule efficiency and resource allocation.
  • Championed a strong sense of community within the camp setting through positive reinforcement, encouraging peer support among participants, and celebrating individual achievements.
  • Developed and monitored budgets for recreational activities.
  • Developed and implemented age-appropriate lesson plans for various theater skills, leading to improved performance outcomes.
  • Communicated regularly with parents regarding their child''s progress throughout the duration of the camp program.
  • Managed daily logistics of the camp schedule, ensuring timely transitions between activities and adherence to established routines.
  • Maintained accurate records of camper attendance, skill development progress, and any pertinent observations throughout the program, providing valuable insights to inform future camp improvements.
  • Kept track of allergies and dietary restrictions, verifying correct meals and snacks were given to campers.

Education

Master of Arts in Education / BA Social Sciences

Whittier College
Whittier, CA

Skills

  • Team communication
  • Managing production logistics
  • Supervising staff
  • Rehearsal direction
  • Sound design
  • Lighting design
  • Prop management
  • Audience management
  • Stage production management
  • Production progress reporting
  • Post-production
  • Administrative functions

Timeline

Resident Stage Manager

Cabrillo Playhouse
07.2021 - Current

Trout in the Classroom Instructor

California Department Of Fish And Wildlife
06.2017 - Current

Robotics and Engineering Teacher

Rivera Middle School
09.2011 - Current

Theatre Production Manager

Mysterium Theatre
10.2009 - Current

Science Teacher

Rivera Middle School
09.1998 - Current

Theater Field Study Teacher

Rivera Middle School
09.1993 - 08.2000

Science Field Study Instructor

Rivera Middle School
09.1990 - Current

Drama Teacher

Rivera Middle School
09.1988 - 06.2002

Master of Arts in Education / BA Social Sciences

Whittier College
Lisa L. Garcia Cordes