Jack Pence
General Manager
VEE Production Services and Costumes & Creatures
- Joined VEE in 1987, oversees a staff of 70 designers, manufacturers and problem solvers and over 35,000 square feet of manufacturing space
- Instrumental in the start-up of VEE Production Services
- Technical Director for the Super Bowl XXVI Half Time Show
- Technical Director and House Stage Manager at the Fitzgerald Theatre for productions ranging from "A Prairie Home Companion," to "Black Nativity"
- Production work on numerous motion pictures including "Purple Rain," "That Was Then, This Is Now," and "Drop Dead Fred"
- Master Electrician and Carpenter at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres
- Production Carpenter at KTCA Public Television
Major accomplishments:
Approaching 20th production season with Sesame Street Live. Building and growing the VPS division. My mile swim merit badge.
Favorite part of your day?
That little window when I feel productive and people are getting the information and guidance that they need from me.
Favorite part of your job?
Opening nights and project "kick-offs" -- that moment when we get to see our work as the public sees it for the first time.
What started this for you? Why are you here?
I developed an early interest in theatre -- I love the creativity and the interaction with very unique and talented people.
Who influences you?
My daughter has been my lifeline to the real world (and sometimes the not so real world), my colleagues have always been my inspiration.
A memory of your job you'll always carry with you.
Just before we headed out to do the Super Bowl Halftime Show I grabbed a megaphone and gave an off-the-cuff speech to 200 + staff and volunteers who were about to do this huge show. It was kind of a sappy "win one for the gipper" speech intended to motivate. I was touched by the Rah Rah response and the realization of how much "getting the job done right" meant to so many volunteers.
Favorite movie?
Dr. Strangelove (or how I learned to stop worrying and love the bomb)
Theme song?
Little Red Caboose (as sung by me as an eight year old)
Mascot or character you identify with and why.
Bullwinkle. He has a great sense of humor. I love the wit and social satire.
What would be your mascot's name and what would you root for?
Dr. Mergeon Sturgeon the Virgin Tree Surgeon. I would root for deep roots, sturdy limbs, and lofty goals.
Likes:
Lunch, pizza, funny people, honesty, integrity, water sports.
Dislikes:
Bad people, rusty cars, pot holes.
