Our Team

John E. Barry CEO

As an event organizer, John believes that meaningful change always begins at the grassroots level and that engaged citizens working together can accomplish extraordinary things. As a festival expert with over twenty years experience, he knows how to maximize revenue opportunities and consistently achieve his clients’ objectives.

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Michelle Krage President

Michelle’s expertise includes event production and management, logistical support, marketing, sales and public relations. Michelle develops and maintains impeccable relationships with our clients, colleagues and vendors. Her leadership and drive help her understand the vision and objectives for their event.

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Emily Orthwein
DIRECTOR OF EVENTS & STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

With previous experience planning private and corporate events, Emily is essential for onsite management and design production for StarEvents. Her passion for music and people drive her work on everything from managing the summer interns to working with our talent agency, Chicago Entertainment Agency

Taylor Levy
DIRECTOR OF EVENTS & OPERATIONS

From black tie galas to fundraisers to festivals, Taylor is passionate about creating unique experiences for guests and attendees. Her hospitality-focused education and professional experiences helps her focus on the importance of relationship building, event logistics, and efficient project management.

Dayna Malow
Talent Director

As our lead talent buyer, Dayna manages all of the processes involved in securing the best entertainment for each of our events and festivals. She knows how to curate any type of event, scout the perfect talent, and then negotiate the best deal for both client and artist. Her depth and breadth of event and industry experience includes singing and dancing, helping her understand the industry better.

Jess Lee
Accounting

Susan Smith
Administrative

RACHEL BOGE
EVENT ASSISTANT

Carlos Calzadilla
Logistics

JACOB BERSIE
LOGISTICS

BEN CASTRONOVA
FESTIVAL FINANCES