Graham Johnston
palmerston north,MWT
Summary
Results-oriented professional with 15 years in tertiary education and 10 years as Artistic Director of Manawatū Youth Theatre, specializing in youth engagement. Extensive experience in project-based environments, adapting to change with ease. Proven background in live performance and event production enhances team capabilities.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Producer
Manawatu Youth Theatre
palmerston north
10.2017 - Current
- Created and maintained budgets for productions, aligning resources with financial objectives.
- Developed and managed production schedules to ensure timely delivery of projects.
- Managed team dynamics and fostered collaboration among members to enhance project outcomes.
- I founded Manawatu Youth Theatre in 2017.
- Organized community outreach events to foster relationships.
- Coordinating events.
- Ticketing.
- Technical setup and operation - Lighting/sound and AV.
- Teaching content and working to improve confidence and ability in musical theatre performance techniques (except dance).
Freelance Audio Engineer
Various
Nationwide
01.2000 - Current
- Installed, set up, and operated PA, lighting, and AV systems for diverse events, enhancing audience experience from conference speakers to musical theatre productions.
- Demonstrated extensive knowledge of technical event solutions, quickly mastering new technologies to support successful event execution.
Event Manager
Various
Various
01.2000 - Current
- Coordinated planning, budgeting, recruiting, scheduling, and relationship development with clients and vendors to deliver successful events.
- Managed events ranging from one-off shows to multi-week theatrical productions, ensuring smooth execution and attendee satisfaction.
- Oversaw on-site operations, directing staff to maintain high service standards during events.
- Collaborated with clients to understand their needs and tailor event experiences accordingly.
- Supported attendees before, during, and after events to enhance their overall experience and address any inquiries.
- Trained junior staff on event procedures and best practices for successful operations.
Lecturer
UCOL
palmerston north
02.2010 - 06.2025
- Designed curriculum and assessment materials for program, incorporating digital learning and management alongside hard copy workbooks.
- Taught specific subject areas in the music curriculum.
- Provided detailed marking and constructive feedback on student assignments to enhance learning.
- Individual keyboard and voice lessons.
- Coordinated STAR Music programs for high school year 12 and 13 students, enhancing student engagement and learning experience.
- Co-coordinated events and managed logistics for department, ensuring successful execution and alignment with educational goals.
- Stakeholder engagement and feedback.
- Reporting for govt standards.
- The purchase and maintenance of equipment.
Independent music teacher - keyboard and voice
Self Employed
Manawatu
01.2002 - 07.2007
- Teaching performance techniques for voice.
- Teaching music theory (grades 1-5).
- Collaborated with diverse students in keyboard, voice, and production technology.
- Coached students for auditions, offering targeted feedback to enhance performance.
- Guided experienced pianists in adopting a chordal approach to their music.
Education
Certificate - adult education
UCOL
11.2015
Skills
- Digital Literacy
- Communications
- Problem solving
- Event management
- Music performance
- Conflict resolution
- People management
- Key relationship development
- Reporting
- Music Education
- Music Performance
- Sound Design and Operation
- Lighting operation and setup
- Av setup and operation
Hobbies and Interests
- Music
- Cooking
- Building
References
- Catherine Carr, Opji College, cathcarr2014@gmail.com, 021 760649
- Dean Rankin, UCOL, d.rankin@ucol.ac.nz, 021 1901144
Timeline
Producer
Manawatu Youth Theatre
10.2017 - Current
Lecturer
UCOL
02.2010 - 06.2025
Independent music teacher - keyboard and voice
Self Employed
01.2002 - 07.2007
Freelance Audio Engineer
Various
01.2000 - Current
Event Manager
Various
01.2000 - Current
Certificate - adult education
UCOL