Charleston Stage is known for producing the biggest shows in town. Our production staff continually raises the bar to bring Charleston full-scale professional theatre, providing this great city the dazzling theatre it deserves. Meet J. Kenneth Barnett III and Paul Hartmann, members of Charleston Stage’s Production Staff.
J. Kenneth Barnett III
Production Manager/Resident Scenic Designer
Where did you grow up? Were there any activities you did as a child that led to your passion for the arts?
I grew up in Rockford, IL. As far I as I can remember, I have always drawn or painted. In the sixth grade, I was in my first play, something about George Washington. I played the villain, King George. I went to a performing arts school from 7th grade to 12th grade. Art and theater were my favorites.
Where did you go to school/receive training? How did this prepare you for your work in theatre?
I am a graduate from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, IL. I have a B.A. in Theater and a minor in Art. I studied to be an actor, but worked in the shop (building and painting scenery) as part of my TSA scholarship.
Describe briefly your position at Charleston Stage and what you do for the company.
I am the Production Manager/Resident Scenic Designer. I work with the Production staff to make sure each production goes as smoothly as possible from the beginning of the build to the load in/load out of a show. I design and draft the new productions at Charleston Stage. I am also the Properties Master and Scenic Artist.
Where have you worked previously before Charleston Stage?
I worked at New American Theater in Rockford, IL as their Resident Scenic Designer/Properties Master/Scenic Artist (1991-1997). Most recently, I worked at The Chattanooga Theatre Centre in Chattanooga, TN as their Resident Scenic Designer/ Properties Master/ Scenic Artist (1999-2010).
What do you do in your spare time?
I love to spend my spare time with my wife and our 6-year-old son. We love Folly Beach and living here in beautiful, historic Charleston.
Paul Hartmann
Technical Director/Lighting Designer
Where did you grow up? Were there any activities you did as a child that led to your passion for the arts?
I grew up in Hanna City, IL, a small town just west of Peoria, IL. I didn’t really become interested in theatre until college.
Where did you go to school/receive training? How did this prepare you for your work in theatre?
I have a BFA in Design/Technical Theatre from Millikin University in Decatur, IL. The program was growing very rapidly and there were many opportunities for hands-on learning experience.
Describe briefly your position at Charleston Stage and what you do for the company.
I am the Technical Director/Lighting Designer which entails making sure the sets get built and built well, and making sure they have light on them so we can see the actors.
Where have you worked previously before Charleston Stage?
I have experience in educational, community, and professional theatre. My last job was a fun one. I was Lighting Designer at a mid sized concert venue in Chattanooga, TN called Track 29.
What do you do in your spare time?
I like to go to the beach and take long walks with my dog.
WANT TO WORK ON SCENERY, COSTUMES OR BACKSTAGE?
Contact J. Kenneth Barnette III at (843) 577-0868 or email kbarnett@charlestonstage.com.