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Heide Janssen
Performing Arts Professional
Professional Background
Heide Janssen is a highly accomplished professional in the performing arts and cultural sector, leveraging her rich educational background and extensive professional experience to contribute to the arts community. Currently serving as the Arts and Culture Managing Editor at Voice of OC, she plays a pivotal role in highlighting and promoting the vibrant arts scene in Orange County. Her dedication to arts journalism and her passion for theater management have driven her career, establishing her as a significant figure in this dynamic field.
Before joining Voice of OC, Heide was known for her innovative approach as the Founding Executive Producer of Orange County's Artist of the Year, a highly regarded initiative that celebrates and showcases local talents in the arts. In this role, she was instrumental in creating a platform that recognizes the hardworking artists of the region, thus enriching the cultural landscape of Orange County.
Heide's early career was marked by her position as the Director of the Ocallkids Project at the Orange County Department of Education, where she influenced the lives of many young individuals through the power of theater and educational programs. Her commitment to nurturing creativity in youth is further reflected in her previous role as Program Director and Regional Program Co-Founder at Orange County Cappies, which fosters the appreciation of theater arts among high school students.
Additionally, Heide's editorial expertise was honed during her time as Varsity Arts Editor at the Orange County Register, where she managed arts content, showcasing both emerging and established artists and enriching the publication’s cultural coverage.
Throughout her career, she has held various significant positions that underscore her versatility in theater management. Her tenure as the Interim Company Manager at The 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle, and her role as Assistant General Manager and Company Manager at the esteemed Center Theatre Group, demonstrate her adeptness in managing large-scale productions and her commitment to executing high-quality theatrical performances.
Heide's journey in the theater industry began at Yale University, where she served in multiple positions at the Yale Repertory Theatre, including Associate Business Manager and Assistant Director of Development. Her experiences at Yale laid a strong foundation for her career, equipping her with the necessary skills to excel in various management roles within the arts.
Heide's innovative spirit also led her to conceptualize and lead the Roleabout Theatre Festival, which showcased diverse voices in theater, contributing significantly to the creative community. Furthermore, as a Graduate Fellow and Associate to the Executive Director at Court Theatre, she gained invaluable insights into the intricacies of theater production and management.
Education and Achievements
Heide holds a prestigious Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Theater Management from Yale University’s Yale School of Drama, where she developed critical competencies and a deep understanding of theatrical production and administration. This advanced degree has greatly contributed to her professional development and her influential role in arts advocacy and leadership.
Prior to her MFA, Heide completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, where she refined her writing and communication skills, elements that have been crucial in her arts journalism career.
Throughout her academic and professional journey, Heide has consistently prioritized her passion for the arts and the importance of leadership in cultural initiatives. Her commitment to arts education, youth engagement in the arts, and the promotion of local artists has established her as a leader in her field.
Key Achievements
- Arts and Culture Managing Editor at Voice of OC: Leading the charge in arts journalism, promoting local artists and arts events.
- Founding Executive Producer at Orange County's Artist of the Year: Successfully initiated a platform celebrating local arts talent.
- Festival Creator and Director: Developed the Roleabout Theatre Festival, which has grown to be a cherished event in the local arts calendar.
- Program Director and Regional Program Co-Founder at Orange County Cappies: Contributed to youth engagement in the arts through education and recognition programs.
- Tenure at Yale Repertory Theatre: Gained comprehensive experience in arts management that has shaped her career trajectory.
Through her extensive background, Heide Janssen continues to be a beacon of creativity, leadership, and passion for the arts. Her multifaceted experience across various organizations and her commitment to promoting arts in the community make her a respected and influential figure in the world of theater and arts journalism.
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