The Art of the Show: Writing & Creative Visual Development for Themed Entertainment

The Art of the Show: Writing & Designing for Themed Entertainments

Themed entertainment isn’t just about rides, merchandise, or even spectacular visuals—it’s about storytelling. It’s about crafting immersive environments where guests don’t just watch the story unfold… they live inside it. Whether you’re scripting an animatronic’s one-liner, designing a pre-show, or writing comedy-infused spiels for cast members on the frontlines, every word and detail should serve the greater narrative. That’s the art of the show—and it’s been my life’s work.

With over 20 years of experience in creative leadership, I’ve worked at the intersection of themed entertainment, exhibition design, immersive storytelling, and museum education. My professional journey includes more than a decade with The Walt Disney Company, where I started as a cast member and grew into the role of Guest Experience Manager. I led daily resort operations, providing effective and inspirational leadership across merchandise, ride and show operations, retail, and food & beverage—always with a focus on delivering exceptional, guest-centered experiences… and yes, a touch of pixie dust.

My Disney career brought me to classic attractions such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Spaceship Earth, and Journey Into Imagination with Figment. I also performed in beloved interactive entertainment shows including Turtle Talk with Crush and Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor, where my background in improv and comedy helped create moments of spontaneous joy and laughter.

Before Disney, I served as Executive Director Emerita at the Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College. There, I developed educational programs, curated exhibitions, and built meaningful cultural partnerships—bridging the gap between institutional storytelling and creative expression. I hold a BFA in Illustration with a minor in Film/Broadcast Design and am a certified Grumbacher painting instructor. My performance background includes advanced training at Second City Toronto and SAK Comedy Lab in Orlando.

Now recently relocated from Orlando to Markham, Ontario, I’m excited to bring my passion for experiential storytelling, themed design, and guest experience leadership to new creative opportunities in Canada—whether in museums, attractions, or anywhere that believes storytelling still matters.