Sound and Lighting Company in Charlotte NC: What Should Event Planners Know First?

Osamuede “Ede” Iyi-Eweka

Event Technician

Osamuede IYI - Eweka (Ede, often pronounced Eddie), With a decade of experience in the entertainment industry, Ede’s journey began in community theater, where he honed his skills by building set pieces for stage productions. Over the years, he has expanded his expertise to Broadway shows and arena concerts, working as a stagehand and traveling AV technician.

Ede's passion for the industry is evident in his diverse background, from crafting intricate stage designs to managing complex audiovisual setups. Currently, he is pursuing filmmaking at Full Sail University, aiming to transition into teaching and directing film in the future.

Known for his dedication and versatility, Ede is committed to bringing creativity and professionalism to every project he undertakes.

Persistent / Loyal / Happy

• Has a twin brother.
• Loves to rock climb.
• Collects vinyl records.

Garrett Wilson

Warehouse Support Technician

Garrett Wilson is a personable and energetic individual with a unique blend of passions and experiences. An avid skateboarder since the age of 16, Garrett once harbored dreams of becoming a professional skater and even had sponsors along the way. His adventurous spirit is highlighted by a memorable cross - country road trip from California to South Carolina with his family — an experience he describes as both thrilling and unforgettable.

Garrett’s professional journey took a turn from his initial aspirations of becoming a doctor — a typical childhood ambition — to exploring the AV industry. After spending a decade in the legal field, he found his true calling in the dynamic world of audiovisual technology. At Crescent, Garrett is excited to immerse himself in every aspect of the AV industry and aspires to make a long - term career here. He finds joy in the vibrant atmosphere, the people he works with, and the opportunity to learn about an industry that captivates him.

In addition to his work, Garrett is a dedicated cat lover and enjoys playing video games, balancing his professional drive with his personal interests.

Adventurous / Passionate / Dedicated

• An avid skateboarder when he was 16 years old.
• Wants Crescent to be his forever job.
• Once drove in a small car from California to South Carolina with my entire family. Pretty adventurous.

Lorelei Owens

Junior Project Manager

3 words:

• Personable 
• Curious 
• Enthusiastic

3 statements: 

• Lived for 5 years on the Ringling Brothers Circus Train
• Loves Dungeons & Dragons and cosplaying at Cons and Renaissance Festivals
• Met her Irish husband while working on a show in South Africa

Lorelei Owens has been chasing the magic of live entertainment since the age of 9, when she first stepped onto a community theatre stage in her hometown. While she once dreamed of being an actress, her journey quickly led her behind the scenes, where she discovered her true passion for production and the energy that comes from making the magic happen.

Lorelei got her start as a circus sideshow performer and spent five unforgettable years living and working on the Ringling Brothers Circus Train. From there, her career as a lighting technician took off, sending her across the U.S. (by train, no less) and eventually around the globe, lighting shows in arenas, stadiums, and even under the Big Top. With over 13 years of industry experience, she brings serious skill, contagious enthusiasm, and a collaborative spirit to every project she touches.

Now part of the Crescent team, Lorelei thrives on the fast pace, the problem-solving, and—most of all—the people. She loves working alongside crews from all walks of life, coming together to make something unforgettable.

Outside of work, she’s a proud nerd at heart who loves playing Dungeons & Dragons, cosplaying at conventions and Renaissance Festivals, and sharing adventures with her husband and lovable pups!

Tiana Peterson

Accounts Payable Clerk

3 words:

• Enthusiastic 
• Inquisitive 
• Earnest 

3 statements: 

• Enjoys learning about cultures and people 
• Loves to work with numbers 
• Wants to learn seven Languages 

Though new to the AV world, Tiana Peterson is no stranger to the stage—or to the hustle that comes with live events. With a background in show choir and mixed-culture dance, Tiana has spent years performing and connecting with audiences through music and movement. These days, she may not be singing or acting, but you’ll still catch her dancing well into the early morning hours when the vibe is right.

Tiana brings her vibrant energy, curiosity, and can-do attitude to her role. She’s passionate about learning the ropes, jumping in wherever she’s needed, and soaking up every bit of knowledge she can from the experienced teams around her. For Tiana, the best part of the industry is “experiencing and witnessing the joy that comes from giving it your all—and knowing you can put a smile on someone’s face.”

Outside of work, Tiana is all about learning and exploring. She has a deep interest in different cultures and languages, dreams of speaking seven languages fluently one day, and loves working with numbers. Her mix of creative passion and analytical curiosity makes her a standout addition to the Crescent team and someone to keep an eye on as she grows in the industry.

Oscar Rodriguez

Hotel Director of Audio/Visual

3 words:

• adaptable 
• extroverted-introvert (I don’t know if that counts, haha)
• hopeful.

3 statements: 

• I’m a trombonist
• photographer/videographer 
• can’t wait to get married (Black Friday 2025!)

Oscar Calvo-Rodriguez is a passionate AV professional with a diverse background that blends music, technology, and creative expression. Born in Queens, NY, and raised in Charlotte, NC, Oscar has always been deeply involved in music. He’s been playing trombone since 2008, and his love for music led him to also work as a sound tech at his church, where he brings his expertise to enhance worship experiences.

Although Oscar's childhood dreams didn’t include a career in AV, he quickly discovered his passion for creating stunning visual and auditory experiences. He works in the AV industry today with a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities that have come his way. As an extroverted-introvert, Oscar thrives in environments where he can connect with others, while also cherishing the moments when he can work quietly behind the scenes to make magic happen.

In addition to his work in AV, Oscar is an avid photographer and videographer, capturing moments that tell unique stories. While he enjoys a wide range of music genres, Ska holds a special place in his heart as his all-time favorite. He is also excited to marry his partner on Black Friday 2025, marking a special chapter in his personal life. Driven by hope, Oscar looks forward to the future with anticipation, always seeking the next opportunity to learn and grow.

Manuel Taborda

Inventory & Quality Control Technician

3 words:

• Determined 
• Outgoing
• Loyal

3. Statements: 

• Values the importance of family, no matter what form it takes
• Driven by hard work and resilience, instilled from a young age
• Approaches life with curiosity, adventure, and a love for the outdoors

Manuel Taborda is one of the friendly faces keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes at Crescent as a Warehouse Support Technician. Whether it's prepping gear for a big show, organizing inventory, or helping the team stay on track, Manuel brings energy, focus, and a “let’s get it done” attitude to everything he does. He takes pride in making sure the right equipment gets out the door on time and in perfect condition—because he knows that’s where great events begin.

Manuel is a second-generation Colombian American, raised by his single father who taught him the value of a hard day’s work and the importance of family—however it’s defined. That upbringing shaped his loyalty, drive, and strong sense of responsibility. Though he once dreamed of being a fighter pilot, his passion for aviation is still alive—earning a pilot’s license is high on his list for the future.

When he’s not at work, you’ll probably find him outdoors—hiking, biking, camping, or fishing. He’s always up for an adventure and would love to take on the Appalachian Trail someday. English is actually his second language (even if you can’t tell!), and he’s a proud dog dad to two pups who keep him on his toes.

Micheal Hetland

Hotel Director of Audio/Visual

3 words:

• Ambitious
• Industrious
• Goofy

3 statements: 

• A multimedia artist modeling and animating in Blender!
• A DJ who produces music with one of his best friends as a duo. 
• Loves to race anything virtually or on a track, especially karts.

Michael Hetland is an ambitious and industrious multimedia artist with a goofy side that keeps things fun. He spends his time modeling and animating in Blender, constantly pushing his creative boundaries. As a DJ and music producer, he collaborates with one of his best friends to create dynamic sounds as a duo. When he’s not creating, you can find him racing—virtually or on the track—especially in karts, where his competitive spirit thrives.

From a young age, Michael was drawn to production and the arts. His first taste of the industry came at just 3 years old, when he appeared in a Maytag commercial, an experience that set him on the creative path he follows today. Whether it’s through digital art, music, or racing, Michael is always chasing the next big challenge with passion and energy

Aidan Fletcher

Warehouse Support Technician

3 Words:

• Humble
• Kind
• Inquisitive

3 statements: 

• Lives each day with gratitude and purpose
• Stays humble, always open to learning, and valuing the insights of others
• Passionate about continuous improvement—always learning and growing

Aidan Fletcher is a recent high school graduate who’s excited to be pursuing a career in the A/V industry. Growing up, Aidan’s dream job was to be a Lego designer, but over the years, he developed a deep passion for church production—an area he’s been involved in for most of his life. Just over a year ago, Aidan decided to turn his love for A/V into a full-fledged career.

His favorite part of the job is seeing a successful event come together, especially when challenges arise during setup or the event itself. Aidan loves how his team always pulls through, working together to make everything run smoothly. His passion for the work and his drive to contribute to the success of each event are what keep him motivated and excited for what lies ahead.

Merary Pineda

Talent & Logistics Coordinator

Merary Pineda, a Charlotte native with roots in California, grew up as the youngest of several siblings. As a child, Merary aspired to be an artist, though these days, she views that creative passion more as a cherished hobby.

Despite being relatively new to the AV production industry, Merary has quickly discovered a genuine enthusiasm for her work. She finds great joy in being behind the scenes, immersed in the process of bringing a show to life. For Merary, the most exciting part of her job is witnessing how all the pieces come together to create a spectacular event, making each project a thrilling and rewarding experience.

Authentic / Passionate / Empathetic

• Absolutely loves traveling, feels like a change of scenery from time to time is so refreshing
• LOVES nature which is why she enjoys taking a trip to the mountains/beach so much,enjoys taking photos of a beautiful sunrise/sunset or nature in general.
• Very much into music, has a wide range of genres but isdefinitely more of a metalhead

Wes Riley

Audio Visual Technician

Wes loves giving back as a volunteer. Growing up, he dreamed of becoming a landscaper, but life took him in a different direction. Now, he is thriving in the AV world, where his passion for overperforming, teamwork, and dependability shines through every day, as an Audio-Visual Technician in the Hospitality Services Division.

Originally from Willingboro, New Jersey, and the youngest of four, his three older brothers helped shape his values of collaboration and reliability. In his role at the hotel, he get to blend his technical skills with a commitment to excellent service, all while staying true to the principles he grew up with.

Overperform / Team player / Dependable

• Volunteer as a Stage Manager at Elevation Church
• The youngest of 4 (has 3 older Brothers)
• Originally From Willingboro, New Jersey

Philip Ramsay

Business Development

Philip Ramsay, originally from Lexington, Kentucky, brings a diverse and vibrant background to his role. After spending 12 years in Los Angeles, Philip has now made Atlanta his home. His upbringing was marked by a passion for sports, which has evolved from playing them as a child to enjoying them as a fan.

Philip values the connections he can make through his work in the event industry. He sees sports as a powerful way to bond with others, and he finds a similar sense of connection and excitement in his professional life. The opportunity to meet, talk to, and engage with interesting people is what he enjoys most about his job. Philip is enthusiastic about creating memorable events and is eager to bring his energy and passion to every project.

Witty / Passionate / Sports

• Loves traveling. Italy is amazing!
• Got to play on Chelsea Football Club's field after their last game of the season
• Grew up around all women, his mom and two sister

Matthew Johnson

Audio Visual Technician

Matthew Johnson has been passionate about music and production since he was young, and his journey into AV production began during his sophomore year of high school. Driven by a deep curiosity and love for the field, Matthew has self-taught a broad range of skills, including photography, videography, VJ’ing, and working with lights and lasers.

Before joining Crescent, Matthew gained valuable experience in the AV industry, focusing on audio and production flow at his previous job. His enthusiasm for AV production stems from the endless creative possibilities it offers. He delights in the challenge of transforming shows into visually spectacular experiences, using everything from lights and projectors to LED walls. For Matthew, the opportunity to innovate and create something truly remarkable is what makes his work so rewarding.

Creative / Driven / Colorful

• Would love to work in movie production
• Has a black belt in Jeet Kune Do
• Works at a nightclub as a VJ and Lighting/laser operator. Has a goal to work concerts/raves and a music festival

Matthew Santa Cruz

Senior Event Technician

Matthew Santa Cruz brings over 13 years of industry experience to his role at Crescent. His career began with a small, family-owned company, where he first discovered his passion for production. Since then, he has expanded his expertise by working with national production companies, each step deepening his appreciation for the field.

Originally aspiring to be a fireman, Matthew’s path took a turn when he found his true calling in production. What he loves most about his work is the opportunity to collaborate with talented and knowledgeable colleagues. For Matthew, the joy of working together to create something extraordinary is the highlight of his career, making every project a rewarding experience

Intuitive / Curious / Technology-driven

• Worked in Electrical before transitioning into the AV industry
• Has visited every contiguous start in the U.S and traveled to Mexico and Canada for both work and vacation
• Strives to embody the spirit of the “Florida Man”, while living in North Carolina

Get to know better by watching his Employee Spotlight Video

Marie House

Director of Talent and Logistics

Marie House, originally from Shreveport, Louisiana, brings a deep-rooted sense of ambition and dedication to her work. Growing up with her dad and brother, Marie was instilled with values of hard work and unwavering support from an early age. These formative experiences have shaped her approach to both her career and her passion for art.

Marie’s drive to excel and her commitment to her craft are a reflection of the strong family foundation she built upon. She carries these principles into every project she undertakes, aiming to provide the same level of support and encouragement to the teams she works with. Her goal is to foster a collaborative and empowering environment on each show, ensuring that every team member feels valued and motivated to contribute their best

Ambitious / Artistic / Compassionate

• People do not usually know about her personal endeavors in storytelling; she has been writing since she was very young.
• A HUGE food lover, usually thinking about what her next meal will be.
• Her heart runs on music, her largest playlist is so large that it would take someone two weeks of straight listening to get through the whole collection.

Get to know better by watching her Employee Spotlight Video

Ken Johnson

Junior Project Manager

Ken has carved out a niche for himself through his keen eye for detail and creative flair. One of the highlights of his role is the opportunity to travel to new cities and states, embracing the chance to explore unfamiliar places and gain fresh perspectives.

Ken’s journey is marked by his dedication to both his craft and his continuous pursuit of new experiences. His background and interests combine to make him a dynamic and engaging professional, always ready to take on new challenges and adventures.

Creative / Determined / Silent

• Sang in his church and school choir until his senior year of high school.
• Big into Greek Mythology. Wants to travel to Greece to look at the ancient architecture.
• As a kid he wanted to become an FBI agent.

Get to know better by watching his Employee Spotlight Video

Jordan Wheeler

Regional Director of Sales – Hospitality Services Division

Jordan Wheeler is a proud native of Charlotte with a long-standing passion for the entertainment and production industries. His journey began in high school, where playing in bands instilled in him the significance of creating clear, engaging experiences that captivate and leave audiences eager for more.

This early experience ignited a lasting motivation that Jordan carries into his professional life. Today, he channels that drive into advancing and innovating our In-House operation, continually pushing boundaries and striving for excellence. His dedication to growing and enhancing the team’s capabilities makes him a dynamic force in the industry, committed to delivering exceptional results and memorable experiences

Energetic / Hilarious / Chaotically Good

• Has been to every continent except Antarctica
• Plays multiple instruments.
• Was the runner-up to play Dennis the Menace

Get to know better by watching his Employee Spotlight Video

Jon Luna

Warehouse Floor Manager

Jon Luna is a dedicated professional who balances a thriving career with a rich family life. Outside of work, Jon cherishes time spent camping, canoeing, and traveling with his family. His commitment to setting a positive example for his boys is evident in the strong work ethic and dedication he brings to his career.

Jon finds great fulfillment in being part of a strong team environment, particularly at Crescent with his warehouse team. He takes pride in the collective sense of accomplishment that comes from successfully fulfilling event orders each day. His enthusiasm for teamwork and his commitment to both his family and career make him a valued and inspiring member of the team

Logical / Adventurous / Curious

• Was born in Puebla, Mexico
• Is married to his high school sweetheart
• Chasing a tornado is on his bucket list

Get to know better by watching his Employee Spotlight Video

Ikaika “Kai” Hofstee

Event Technician

Kai's aspiration to make a significant impact on the world has been a driving force throughout his life. As a child, he dreamed of becoming a geneticist working on the mammoth de-extinction project—a vision that continues to inspire him, even though the project remains a decade behind schedule. Music, however, is at the core of Kai’s life. His days are deeply intertwined with listening to and writing music, making it an integral part of his personal and professional journey. His blend of curiosity, ambition, and passion for music makes him a unique and driven individual, constantly exploring new horizons and leaving a mark on those around him.

Energetic / Enthusiastic / Versatile

• When I was a child, I was in a rodeo riding a sheep.
• I love movies and documentaries about the mafia.
• First instrument he learned to play was the harmonica.

Gavin Alvarez

Account Executive

Gavin has always had a major passion for music. The crafts of playing, collaborating, and songwriting have been a major blessing and focal point throughout his life. Playing music since the age of 12, Gavin is fluent in countless musical instruments. His ultimate goal, outside of helping create memorable and exciting events, is to finish developing his recording studio so that he can continue to create, and help others achieve their sonic goals. Gavin’s passion for live events seeps into many avenues of his life-He is heavily involved in his church’s live productions as the front of house audio engineer, and frequently enjoys concerts and live performances when he has time away from work. Gavin enjoys nerding-out on audio concepts, hanging with friends and family, and trying new culinary experiences.

Creativity / Curiosity / Exploration

• Loves blues guitar.
• A dog person-not a cat person.
• Enjoys card games and strategic board games

Daniel Graziano

Event Technician

Daniel Graziano, better known as Dan, grew up in a household where advertising and AV products were part of everyday life, thanks to his dad’s work in the industry in Green Bay, Dan was immersed in the world of sound and visuals from a young age.

His journey into the industry began at the age of 14 when he started playing in bands, laying the foundation for his future career. Over the past 11 years, Dan’s dedication has been evident in every project he takes on, starting with his volunteer work at Harmony Cafe in his hometown.

Dan’s enthusiasm for his work is contagious. He delights in experimenting with the latest gear and thrives on understanding how each piece of equipment contributes to creating a memorable show. For Dan, the thrill of making everything come together seamlessly is the most rewarding part of his job, and his expertise and genuine excitement make him a valuable asset to any team

Passionate / Genuine / Loud (In a good way)

• Worked stage crew for Iron Maiden, Elton John, Queen, Jimmy Buffet, Black Crowes and Billie Eilish
• Grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Go Pack!)
• Plays Guitar

Anthony Morciglio

Senior Porject Manager

Anthony Morciglio’s journey in AV production is as diverse as his upbringing, which spans the serene mountains of East Tennessee and the vibrant Caribbean. His fascination with the world of production began during his college years, where he combined his hobbies of film photography and recording engineering to contribute to friends’ recording projects.

Starting as a stagehand, Anthony’s dedication and talent quickly propelled him through the ranks of the production world. Over the years, he has taken on roles ranging from branch manager of a production office to technical director for several local churches in Charlotte, where he has made a significant impact for the past decade.

Anthony’s career reflects his commitment to his craft and his ability to adapt and excel in various aspects of AV production. His rich background and extensive experience continue to drive his passion for creating exceptional production experiences.

Calming / Light hearted / Compassionate

• Enjoys listening to and collecting vinyl records.
• Lived and worked at a summer camp at the Grand Canyon. Was able to hike to the bottom and back during that time.
• A longtime fan of standup comedy.

Amber McShan

Controller

Amber McShan’s passion for numbers has been a defining part of her life from a young age. As the kid who was always the first to raise her hand for math questions in class, it was clear early on that Amber had a special affinity for numbers. Her enthusiasm led her to start facilitating math classes for adults in Work Readiness Programs by 10th grade. By the age of 16, she was hosting three classes a week after school, with dreams of becoming a math teacher after college.

Amber’s early experiences have shaped her career, highlighting her unique talent for simplifying complex concepts, particularly in math and accounting. Her knack for breaking down intricate ideas into understandable parts has become a valuable asset in her professional journey. Amber’s dedication to making numbers accessible and her commitment to teaching continue to drive her success and passion in the field.

Creative / Resilient / Multitasker

• Frequented the Caribbean Islands a lot as a child, solidifying her undying love for nature and swimming.-Raised in a BIG family.
• Eldest daughter of 7 children
• Nickname is “Radio” because she loves to sing and has a song for every occasion ranging across all genres

Adam Flasch

Equipment & Quality Control Manager

Adam Flasch is a remarkable individual whose unique blend of skills and passions makes him stand out in any setting and a perfect fit for our Equipment Manager. A dedicated follower of Jesus Christ, Adam places his faith at the center of his life, followed closely by his cherished family. Adam’s journey is defined by his versatility and resilience. As an Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran, he brings a disciplined, problem-solving mindset to every challenge he encounters. His diverse skills might be described as "Jack of all trades, master of none," but this only highlights his wide-ranging expertise and adaptability. A self-proclaimed social introvert, Adam may not seek the spotlight, but he shines in his quiet determination and thoughtful approach to problem-solving.

Problem Solver / Social Introvert /  Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious

• Married for 10+ years and a father of four
• Jack of all trades, master of none
• Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran

Get to know better by watching his Employee Spotlight Video

Aidan Jones

LED & Video Technician

Aidan Jones is a dynamic and driven professional with a contagious zest for life.

As a child, Aidan dreamed of becoming a lawyer, but his aversion to extensive reading led him to explore other paths. This change of direction didn’t dampen his thirst for knowledge; instead, it fueled his passion for diving deeply into new fields. After gaining valuable experience in film production, Aidan made a swift and successful transition into the event production industry, where he has been making a significant impact.

Aidan’s happiness is evident in his approach to life. His excitement for learning and exploring new interests is matched by his cheerful demeanor and positive outlook. Whether he’s diving into the details of a project or simply enjoying a moment of enthusiasm, Aidan’s geeked - out enthusiasm and driven spirit make him a standout team member and a joy to work with.

Happy / Driven / Geeked

• Avid love of airplanes and aviation. Usually way too excited when at the airport.
• Huge cat guy and has his own furry child at home.
• Usually listens to movie scores, over music on the radio.

Get to know better by watching his Employee Spotlight Video

Chris Malta

Director of Creative Services

His laser-focused path continued throughout high school and into University, where he studied film. To this day, he’s never left the world of video and effects. From being a freelance wedding videographer to overseeing AV for a hotel, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone more passionate about his craft.

CURIOUSITY / PLAY / ACTION

• Has an extreme passion for the Alien franchise (even has a full size head of the alien in his house alongside other collectables)
• Runs a new & popular show on Twitch, streaming game play to his community of a thousand
• His favorite mode of transportation is a skateboard

Get to know better by watching his Employee Spotlight Video

Luis Sanchez

Senior Project Manager

INVENTIVE / POSITIVE / DRIVE

• Plays the drums
• Spends as much time as possible by the ocean
• Originally from Cuba

Get to know better by watching his Employee Spotlight Video

Tim Fogarty

Project Manager

Flexibility / Resolve / Fix

• Plays hockey
• From Pittsburgh
• Has a degree in Finance that he’s never used a day in his life

Josh Treneer

Director of Warehouse Operations

Josh is a systems guy…but we see him as much more. In every company he’s worked at and every role he’s held he’s challenged himself with increasing production and productivity. You see, he was raised to be a hard worker, focused on results. His Dad was on disability for 12 years. Despite the physical limitations, he pushed himself to take care of his family. His Grandfather, even when diagnosed with cancer, worked every day on what he loved, always with a smile on his face. To us, Josh is much more than just hard work and systems. He loves to make people laugh and every day he brings light and life into the office.

Hard Work / Productivity / Smiles

• Caught a 15 lb yellow finned tuna from a kayak
• Once played in a drum line as first chair, and earned a bunch of awards
• Has produced beats & music for R&B, country and rap music

Get to know better by watching his Employee Spotlight Video