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Carmelita Becnel
Production Stage Manager at Princeton University; Lewis Center for the Arts
Professional Background
Carmelita Becnel is a highly accomplished Stage Manager and Production Stage Manager, known for her exceptional organizational skills and ability to collaborate with diverse teams in the performing arts. She has held significant positions at prestigious institutions such as the Lewis Center for the Arts at Princeton University, where she plays an integral role in the production processes. With a wealth of experience in stage management, Carmelita has made remarkable contributions to numerous theaters including the McCarter Theatre Center, Baltimore Center Stage, and Two River Theater, among others.
Throughout her career, she has continually demonstrated her expertise in overseeing the intricate details of stage productions, ensuring that each performance runs smoothly from start to finish. Her commitment to the arts extends beyond her stage management roles; she is actively involved in advocacy through her position on the Steering Committee for the Parents Arts Advocacy League (PAAL). Additionally, Carmelita is a member of the 2019 Cohort of artEquity, reflecting her dedication to equity and inclusion within the theater community.
Carmelita’s experience is further enriched by her role as a Certified Covid-19 Compliance Officer, which highlights her commitment to maintaining the safety and wellbeing of cast and crew members in a post-pandemic world. Her multifaceted skills in stage management, advocacy, and compliance make her a valuable asset to any theatrical production.
Education and Achievements
Carmelita’s educational background is impressive, with a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) specializing in Theater and Stage Management from the University of California, San Diego, renowned for its strong theater arts program. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Theater from Louisiana State University, where she laid the foundation for her passion and expertise in stage management.
As a co-founder of the Black Theater Caucus, Carmelita has shown a profound commitment to uplifting Black artists and promoting racial equity within the arts. Her involvement in this organization aligns with her efforts toward inclusivity and representation in theater, which are crucial issues in today’s performing arts landscape.
Carmelita’s diverse experience working at prominent theaters demonstrates her versatility and depth in the field. From her early career as a stage manager at Swine Palace to her more recent role at the Lewis Center for the Arts, her professional journey has been marked by a series of impactful experiences that have shaped her into a leading figure in stage management.
Achievements
Among her numerous achievements, Carmelita's certification as a Covid-19 Compliance Officer stands out, especially as the theater industry adapts to new norms following the pandemic. This certification underscores her proactive approach to ensuring health and safety standards in theater productions. Her innovative work has been instrumental in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic while ensuring that the art of theater continues to thrive.
Furthermore, her ongoing involvement with artEquity places her at the forefront of critical conversations surrounding equity in the arts, making her a noteworthy figure in the advancement of theater practices that embrace diversity and inclusion. As a member of the PAAL Steering Committee, she advocates for arts education and family engagement in the arts, highlighting her commitment to fostering a supportive environment for emerging talents in theater.
Carmelita Becnel is a force in the theater world, blending her artistic vision with a strong commitment to advocacy and community engagement, thereby paving the way for future generations of artists and stage managers.
