Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
References
Timeline
Generic

Samantha Jo Johnson

Chicago

Summary

Dynamic event and venue production professional rooted in the Chicago performing arts scene, with expertise in hospitality, coordinating cross-functional production teams, managing show logistics, and creating seamless guest and artist experiences. Brings proficiency, poise, authenticity, and heart to all the gigs.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

Assistant Director

Graveface Museum & Records
Chicago
01.2025 - Current
  • Produced and coordinated public-facing events from concept to closeout, overseeing artist bookings, vendor relations, and guest experience.
  • Act as onsite MOD and lead daily operations and event production for a hybrid oddities museum, record shop, and performance venue.
  • Book and manage private and public programming, liaising with artists, vendors, and city agencies.
  • Co-wrote and submitted city grant proposals; assisted in budget realignment and restructuring for shop sustainability.
  • Introduced scheduling and payroll software across owner's businesses to support backend infrastructure.
  • Supervised staff during immersive events, concerts, and pop-up exhibitions, ensuring smooth logistics and hospitality.

Lead Venue Manager

Sleeping Village
Chicago
06.2021 - Current
  • Acted as Lead HM and MOD for almost all calendar show and events.
  • Oversaw show production and coordinated audio, lighting, and stage staff at a 350-capacity music venue. Resolved safety issues and supervising guest services and hospitality.
  • Advanced logistics with artists and tour managers, managed load-ins/loadouts, and ensured artist satisfaction.
  • Assisted with labor scheduling, vendor coordination, and facilities management for events and venue operations.

Education

Associate of Arts - Arts Administration & Policy

School of The Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago, IL

Skills

  • Event Production
  • Event and Venue Management
  • Artist & Vendor Relations
  • Technical Coordination
  • Budget Management
  • Staff Management
  • Hospitality
  • Logistics
  • Visual/Experiential Curation
  • Efficiency in MS Excel
  • Google Suite
  • POS Operational Systems
  • Grant Writing
  • Venue Operations
  • Team Leadership

Websites

References

Emma Gyger, 

Production Manager at Thalia Hall, emma@thaliahallchicago.com

Kristen Kaza, 

No Small Plans LLC, kristenkaza@gmail.com

Kyle LaValley, 

Talent Buyer at Troubadour, kylelavalley3@gmail.com

Timeline

Assistant Director

Graveface Museum & Records
01.2025 - Current

Lead Venue Manager

Sleeping Village
06.2021 - Current

Associate of Arts - Arts Administration & Policy

School of The Art Institute of Chicago

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Samantha Jo Johnson