Craig Johnson
Entertainment Programming & Operations Director | Cruise • Theme Parks • Festivals • Theatre | Guest Experience Leadership & Event Innovation
- Role
- Entertainment Director at Norfolk Festevents, Ltd
- Location
- Chesapeake, VA, US
- LinkedIn followers
- 500 followers
About Craig Johnson
Entertainment isn’t just my career — it’s been my professional arena for over 26…
Experience
Entertainment Director
Dec 2019 — Present · Norfolk, VA, US
Lead the strategic planning and delivery of 40+ immersive, community-driven festivals annually, drawing over attendees across multiple park locationsOversee all entertainment aspects from concept to execution, including creative development, programming, logistics, and guest experience designProgram and produce multi-stage events with 50+ performances per festival, coordinating stage managers, technical crews, and operational teamsBook national, regional, and local musical and specialty acts, crafting diverse and engaging entertainment lineups that reflect community and brand identityNegotiate talent contracts, performance schedules, and insurance compliance, maintaining strong vendor and agency relationshipsCollaborate cross-functionally with Development and Sponsorship teams to align entertainment offerings with partner and trade agreement objectivesFoster partnerships with local arts organizations, educators, cultural groups, and businesses to co-create authentic, inclusive experiencesSource and implement innovative programming ideas to enhance storytelling, interactivity, and guest engagementDesign themed props and décor to support narrative environments and elevate visual impact across event spacesManage department budgets exceeding $500K, ensuring fiscal responsibility and maximum production valueOversee inventory, signage, and technical equipment logistics to support scalable, consistent delivery across all events
Education
De Montfort University
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Theatre/Theatre Arts Management
2001 — 2005
EKC Broadstairs College
BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts, Visual and Performing Arts
1998 — 2000
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