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Margaret Kerrison

Storyteller, Author, Narrative Lead

Margaret Kerrison is an accomplished immersive storyteller and writer, known for her role as Managing Story Editor in Story Development at Walt Disney Imagineering from 2014 to 2021. During her tenure, she significantly contributed to major projects, particularly within the Star Wars and Marvel franchises, including the highly acclaimed Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, which opened in 2019 and received multiple Thea Awards for excellence in themed entertainment.14

Background and Education

Kerrison was born in Indonesia and raised in Singapore. She holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Screenwriting from the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts. Her career spans over 16 years, during which she has worked in various sectors, including television, film, digital media, and immersive experiences.13

Career Highlights

At Walt Disney Imagineering, Kerrison played a pivotal role in the creative development of numerous attractions, including:

  • Star Wars: Launch Bay
  • Hyperspace Mountain
  • Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser
  • Avengers Campus
  • Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Her responsibilities included leading story development, providing creative feedback, and ensuring narrative consistency across various media and experiences.234

Publications and Speaking Engagements

Kerrison is also an author, having published Immersive Storytelling for Real and Imagined Worlds: A Writer's Guide in 2022, which serves as a resource for aspiring storytellers in the immersive entertainment industry. She has been a speaker at numerous prestigious events, such as SXSW and D23, sharing her insights on storytelling and immersive experiences.134

Current Role

After leaving Disney, Kerrison joined Airbnb as a Senior Experiential Creative Lead, where she continues to develop innovative storytelling experiences.34

Margaret Kerrison's work exemplifies the intersection of narrative and immersive design, making her a notable figure in the field of themed entertainment.

Highlights

Apr 10 · cpp.edu
Former Imagineer Behind Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge to Discuss ...
Former Imagineer Behind Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge to Discuss ...
Apr 27 · blooloop.com
Margaret Kerrison on the power of immersive storytelling - Blooloop
Margaret Kerrison on the power of immersive storytelling - Blooloop

Related Questions

What inspired Margaret Kerrison to transition from Disney Imagineering to Airbnb?
How did Margaret Kerrison's multicultural background influence her storytelling approach?
What are some of the challenges Margaret Kerrison faced while working on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge?
Can you tell me more about Margaret Kerrison's book on immersive storytelling?
What unique storytelling techniques does Margaret Kerrison use in her projects?
Margaret Kerrison
Margaret Kerrison, photo 1
Margaret Kerrison, photo 2
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Experience

Senior Narrative Lead at Airbnb
Senior Experiential Creative Lead at Airbnb (Jan 2022 - Sep 2023), Mystery Writing Guide at Discovery Education (May 2023 - Present), Story Consultant/Creative Advisor at MCK Creative LLC (May 2007 - Present)

Education

MFA in Screenwriting from University of Southern California (2005-2007), MS in Engineering/Industrial Management from Tufts University Gordon Institute (2000-2002), BA in International Relations from Tufts University, High School Diploma from Singapore American School

Location

Greater Los Angeles Area