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Michael S. Taormina, CFE
What facilities have you worked
in?
New Orleans Cultural Center; Benedum Center for the Performing Arts,
Pittsburgh; Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Houston; Cobb Energy
Performing Arts Centre, Atlanta.
What is your favorite food or restaurant?
My hometown is New Orleans, so I like all Creole and Italian food. I enjoy
cooking these types of food myself or eating them in really good
restaurants. I enjoy good food that is prepared well, so I enjoy eating at
five-star restaurants such as The French Laundry in Napa Valley, Charlie
Trotter in Chicago, Jean Georges in New York and Le Bec Fin in Philadelphia.
What book are you currently reading (or what is
your favorite book)? Museum and art books are my passion.
Recently, I have been reading books about individual artists such as Edward
Hopper, David Hockney and Texas regional artist David Bates. A recent novel
that I enjoyed was The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson. It’s a
fascinating account of the construction and operation of the 1894 Chicago
World’s Fair. I think this is a novel that should be required reading for
architects and venue managers.
What CD is in your car right now?
Josh Groban, some smooth jazz, Tony Bennett and Mamma Mia. With Atlanta
traffic, I choose which one I listen to based on the mood I want to be in.
What is the weirdest event you’ve ever had in a
facility you’ve worked in? In New Orleans, I managed both an
arena and a performing arts center, so on many occasions, the opera patrons
mixed with wrestling fans with interesting results.
What is a motto, inspiration or quote you try to
live by? There is a paperweight on my desk, which reads: “That’s
Show Biz.” I believe that says it all.
What invention could you not live without?
Air-conditioning — I grew up in the Deep South with high humidity; it was
always very hot! Today, we take air- conditioning for granted, but it has
made our lives very comfortable ... including the venues we manage.
Why did you choose to pursue the CFE?
Since its inception, it has always been my goal to achieve my CFE
designation. However, through the years of opening new venues, the timing in
my career never permitted me to give it the focus it requires. Finally, when
I was in Houston, the timing was right for me.
Which part of the CFE process (essay, written exam
or oral interview) did you find most challenging? I found the
written exam to be the most challenging, because it requires you to know so
much about the entire industry and the many types of venues it encompasses.
To do well on the written part of the exam, you really have to understand
the operation of so many types of facilities, including not only how they’re
similar, but also the unique challenges each offers.
What advice would you give to other colleagues
concerning the process? When asked how to get to Carnegie Hall, a
concert artist once stated, “Practice, practice and more practice!” My
advice for colleagues considering the CFE process is the same — study, study
... and then study some more! Never stop learning about this great industry
we serve.
What has been the benefit of obtaining your CFE?
For me, it’s the level of knowledge and competency the designation
communicates to others. Having your CFE reflects a level of quality and
expertise that, when combined with life experiences, makes any individual a
more effective venue manager.
Would you recommend attaining a CFE to colleagues?
Absolutely. I think it’s important that we continue to learn and grow in the
industry.
What piece of advice would you offer to colleagues
just entering this industry? There is no other field like
this. You are responsible for not only the enrichment and the comfort of
others but also for their safety. When you do your job well, you help shape
great experiences that impact thousands of everyday people whose lives are
made a little better by what you do. However, because this is a
people-oriented industry, it continually has its ups and downs. Adapt, stay
flexible and don’t lose sight of your purpose.
What couldn’t you live without? My
beloved family and friends; they are my strength and support.
What’s your most prized possession?
Other than my family and friends, which
I just mentioned, I really value my art collections. As a hobby, I have
assembled a collection of paintings, sculpture and 20th-century arts and
crafts pottery. I love the exploration of new works.
What is the one thing most people would be
surprised to learn about you? Though most know me as a venue
manager, I also performed professionally in ballet and opera. Also, for 14
years I produced the Mardi Gras Ball celebration for the City of New
Orleans.
Is there anything else you would like to
add? Enjoy what you do; you only get one chance to do it. This is
a tremendous way to spend your life. I’m extremely fortunate to work in this
industry.
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