Steve Smith

Experience

• 

  The Australian Acting Academy

  Jan 2000 - Jan 2003

  Senior Faculty - Theatre and Film

  The Australian Acting Academy takes a unique approach to the education for the Actor / Creator / Writer, to develop a fully rounded artistic education that goes beyond acting for stage and screen. AAA provides a broad pathway to the dynamic world of independent theatre and film. Its core value is an understanding that the contemporary artist, regardless of age and whether onstage or off, is seeking to entertain while continuing to develop their artistry and skill-base.

• 

  Warner Village Theme Parks

  Jan 2003 - Jan 2007

  Entertainment Lead

  Movieworld, Seaworld and Wet 'n Wild are some of Australia’s premiere entertainment attractions. During my various contracts at these locations I performed as an improvisational street theater performer and apart from being an immensely creative and collaborative professional experience, I was also able to incorporate and further develop my outside skills-training in wire-work, armory, stilt walking, horseback stunts, stunt whip cracking, special effects makeup, slapstick, and mime. I was also a featured vocalist and performed in several atmosphere and Musical Theater shows as well as hosting (scripted) and performing (dancer, character, face character) in Movieworld's daily spectacle, "The Movieworld All Star Parade". Show less

• 

  Dramatic English - Hong Kong

  Jan 2004 - Jan 2005

  Teaching Artist - Currilculum Development

  I re-located to South-East Asia to assist in the implementation and creation of theater-based programs into the national education system of Hong Kong. During this time I was also a creative liaison and entertainment specialist for several Hong Kong based entertainment companies including assisting opening cast-members of Hong Kong Disneyland.

• 

  Tokyo Disney Resort (Oriental land Co. ltd,)

  Jan 2007 - Jan 2007

  Performer

  After a global audition tour, I joined a small ensemble in Japan to perform at Tokyo Disney Resort, portraying the roles of Peter Pan and The Mad Hatter for character greetings and theatrical parades including "The Dream Goes On" and the iconic, "Tokyo Disney Electrical Parade - Dreamlights!".

• 

  K.J.K Productions

  Jan 2008 - Jan 2009

  Creative Director / Stage Manager

  • Collaboratively directed and co-managed touring productions, ensuring the seamless execution of creative vision and delivering captivating performances.• Assumed the role of Stage Manager for both seasons, effectively overseeing all aspects of production after opening night, including coordination of technical elements and seamless load-in and load-out at multiple venues.• Demonstrated exceptional expertise in handling all technical show elements, ensuring smooth operation and maintaining the high standards of production quality throughout the tour.• Acted as a key point of contact for venue logistics, efficiently coordinating load-in and load-out processes at various locations, thereby facilitating efficient production operations.• Successfully managed the coordination and execution of all technical aspects, contributing to the overall success of the touring productions and delivering memorable experiences for audiences. Show less

• 

  Disney Cruise Line

  Jan 2010 - Jan 2013

  • Orchestrated comprehensive operations for Disney and PIXAR Characters onboard and in various ports of call, ensuring seamless and enchanting experiences for guests of Disney Cruise Line on the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic.• Spearheaded character training and program development initiatives for performers and attendants, maintaining high standards of performance and authenticity.• Oversee all media-related aspects involving Disney and PIXAR characters, ensuring cohesive representation and delivering captivating experiences for guests.• Facilitated collaborative and innovative sessions with esteemed individuals such as John Lasseter, Richard Sherman, and other Disney VIPs, contributing to the creative vision and direction of character experiences.• Developed and managed operational and rehearsal schedules for character performers, Walt Disney Theater performers, special events, photo-pass, and character attendants, ensuring efficient and engaging performances across various onboard activities. Show less After the creative rehearsal process in Toronto, Canada I joined Disney Cruise Line on board the Disney Magic. My roles and responsibilities varied daily to include performing as a dancer and character on the Walt Disney Theater Stage, interactive character greetings, and scripted programs. I also assisted, greeted, and performed character photography sessions and scripted interactive character programs.After completing this contract I completed an additional two performer replacement contracts on both the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic consecutively. Show less

  • Character & Entertainment Operations Manager

    Jan 2010 - Jan 2013

  • Performer

    Jan 2010 - Jan 2011
• 

  Walt Disney World

  Jan 2014 - Jan 2022

  • Led festival production as a Stage Manager at Disney Springs, orchestrating seamless execution and ensuring the delivery of unforgettable experiences.• Successfully managed production events, notably "The Candlelight Processional," orchestrating all aspects from planning to execution, resulting in memorable and immersive experiences for guests.• Played a pivotal role in creative content development and its seamless implementation, contributing to the enchanting atmosphere of the Disney Imagination Campus (DPA).• Demonstrated meticulous post-production skills, including thorough documentation and reporting, facilitating insightful analysis and informed decision-making while ensuring project success.• Drove labor efficiency and effectively managed budgets, consistently achieving cost optimization while upholding service quality and guest satisfaction. Show less • Demonstrated exceptional production leadership as an Entertainment Operations Manager at The Magic Kingdom, DCE, DPA, and EPCOT, ensuring seamless and captivating experiences for guests.• Expertly managed Disney Character Events, overseeing the coordination and management of costumed character appearances and intellectual property.• Excelled as a Production Stage Manager for acclaimed events such as Harambe Nights at Disney's Animal Kingdom and Holidays Around the World at EPCOT, orchestrating flawless performances and immersive guest experiences.• Led various high-profile events, including the Disney Princess ½ Marathon Pasta Party, strike operations, and coordination with DCE at EPCOT, ensuring the success of these memorable occasions.• Successfully directed the entertainment stages for notable events such as the Food & Wine Festival at EPCOT and the Frozen Summer Fun at Disney's Hollywood Studios, delighting guests with captivating performances and seamless production management. Show less

  • Guest Experience & Entertainment Operations Leader

    Feb 2014 - Jan 2022

  • Production Leadership - Disney Parks Live Entertainment

    Jan 2014 - Nov 2017
• 

  RWS Global

  Jan 2022 - Jan 2024

  Assistant Vice President

  • Spearheaded effective cross-functional communication among Production Operations, Creative, and Project Management teams, facilitating seamless project development within the subsidiaries of RWS Global.• Demonstrated astute budget oversight at both departmental and project levels, effectively managing resources for maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness.• Effectively conveyed and represented the concerns and requirements of the physical production department to creative, operational, and leadership stakeholders, fostering a collaborative and solution-oriented environment.• Proactively monitored industry trends, the competitive landscape, and advancements in production and experiential design, leveraging this knowledge to drive strategic decision-making within the organization.• Developed and executed initiatives aimed at enhancing and upholding the company's brand reputation within the industry, while establishing strong partnerships with both new and existing clients and vendors. Show less

• 

  Adirondack Studios

  Mar 2024 - now

  Business Development Specialist

  My role in Business Development at Adirondack Studios develops and executes visionary business strategies, focusing on live experiences, theatrical design and build, experiential marketing, and new market expansion - all while cultivating strategic partnerships within the entertainment industry. With a keen eye for project viability, I meticulously qualify incoming opportunities, ensuring alignment with our expertise and mitigating contract risks to drive sustainable growth.Through diligent research and active participation in industry trade events, I elevate awareness of the ADKS brand and continuously uncover new avenues for growth. By empathically fostering strong client relationships and attentively listening to their needs, I facilitate effective communication and ensure seamless implementation of creative design and fabrication solutions to exceed client expectations.Let's connect to explore creative synergies and drive transformative growth in the dynamic world of live entertainment, theatre, thematic design and immersive experiences! Show less