Melissa K. Ruge

Melissa K. Ruge is an accomplished stage management professional with extensive experience in live theatrical productions. Currently serving as Teaching Faculty at the California Institute of the Arts since September 2023, Melissa mentors MFA Stage Management students and oversees production. As Production Manager at the Music Academy, responsibilities include overseeing creative and production phases, managing schedules and budgets. Prior roles include Senior Production Coordinator at Vision Matrix Productions, Inc., where project planning and coordination with various stakeholders were key, as well as Manager of Chorus, Dancers & Supers at LA Opera, handling complex scheduling and compliance with union regulations. Melissa has a Bachelor of Arts in Music from California State University, Los Angeles, and holds certifications in yoga instruction and professional coaching.