Job Description

Job Location: Anakeesta - Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Salary Range: $90,000.00 SalaryDIRECTOR OF ENTERTAINMENT (Scenic & Creative)

Position Summary
The Director of Entertainment is responsible for the conceptual development, design oversight, and production of immersive entertainment experiences for Anakeesta and their seasonal events, and live seasonal productions. This role leads the creative process from initial concepting through installation and operation, overseeing casting, show writing and content, scenic event decor, initial vendor coordination, and budgeting oversight, both expense and capital.
The ideal candidate combines strong theatrical storytelling with practical production management and a deep understanding of themed event entertainment.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and direct original entertainment concepts shows, festivals, and live events.
- Talent casting, script writing, character concepts, and creative treatments for stage shows, atmosphere entertainment, and seasonal productions.
- Collaborate with outsourced directors, choreographers, scenic designers, lighting designers, and technical teams to create cohesive entertainment experiences.
- Source directors, choreographers, wardrobe designers, and outsourced talent as needed for large and small event functions within the park.
- Produce, direct and design show content, costuming, and show production elements for multiple productions throughout the calendar year.
- Oversee creative team for theme park décor and environmental storytelling elements to support immersive guest experiences.
- Oversee the management for the scenic team for fabrication projects from concept through installation, including working directly with vendors, fabricators, and production partners.
- Oversee the management team of the Audio/Visual department, for all in park experiences including Astra Lumina, the Firefly Experience, and overall park lighting effects.
- Create/oversee labor, production, and operational expense budgets for entertainment projects and seasonal events.
- Negotiate with external vendors, scenic shops, costume houses, audio/visual providers, and specialty fabricators.
- Provide leadership and mentorship to entertainment management staff, performers, designers, and production teams.
- Manage event creative and scenic production budgets, including forecasting, purchasing, vendor management, and expense tracking.
- Collaborate closely with marketing, operations, entertainment, and leadership teams

Qualifications

Qualifications
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in live events, themed entertainment, or theme park industry.
- Strong background in theatre production, live entertainment, and scenic décor design/production.
- Experience writing and producing live shows, and immersive experiences.
- Demonstrated experience in creative environmental or themed décor design.
- Proven experience managing labor and expense budgets for entertainment or production projects.
- Experience coordinating with vendors, scenic fabricators, and technical production teams.
- Strong project management and organizational skills.
- Ability to manage multiple productions and deadlines simultaneously.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and presentation skills.
- Proficiency with production scheduling, budgeting, and creative presentation tools.
Preferred

Qualifications
- Experience within theme parks, immersive attractions, cruise entertainment, or destination entertainment venues.
- Knowledge of scenic construction methods, technical theatre systems, and fabrication processes.
- Experience in music direction, composition, and/or theatrical performance.
- Experience producing seasonal events such as Halloween, Holiday, or special events programming.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours during event installations and strikes.
- Comfortable working on ladders, lifts, and uneven terrain as needed.
Perks of Working with Us
- Competitive pay.
- Paid time off.
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Life insurance.
- 401(k).
- Free admission for employees and immediate family.
- Employee discounts on food and merchandise.
- Generous pass exchange program with area attractions.
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