As the newest member of the Carolina Theatre at Belk Place team, Tatijuana Littles brings a fresh perspective to the classic restoration. Joining FFTC’s IT department just two years ago, Tatijuana has made a big impact on the Foundation in her short tenure.
Given the complexity of the Carolina Theatre’s IT infrastructure – restoring a classic movie house to be compatible with modern times has its challenges – Tatijuana was asked in June to join the theatre staff full-time as an operations specialist. Recently, the 2017 UNC Charlotte grad sat down to talk about the restoration, her role and how she wants to impact future May 4ths:
You’re one of the newest Carolina Theatre team members – what do you do with the team?
TATIJUANA: I started my position with the Theatre this past June, and I am assisting (Carolina Theatre Executive Sean Seifert and AVP – Facility Operations Sara Rae) with building the theatre’s website, creating policies and procedures, and assisting with the implementation of the point of sale and ticketing systems.
What first drew you to this work?
TATIJUANA: My love for theatre and for history. I grew up in what is now the Historic District of Downtown Concord and enjoyed looking at its architecture and learning about its history. Now I get to be a part of restoring a piece of history … and a theatre at that!
What role will technology play in the new theatre?
TATIJUANA: Technology will play a monumental role in the theatre, from the sound and lighting to the projections and ticketing. We are doing things that not many theatres are doing yet, and we cannot wait to show you all the incredible possibilities!
What have you loved the most about working on the restoration?
TATIJUANA: I’d say integrating something as historic as the theatre with the newest and latest technologies! I’ve not been on the team for long, but I’ve been privy to see all the detail and hard work that was put into the theatre to make it something spectacular, and it will be spectacular.
What can you not wait to share with audiences?
TATIJUANA: I can’t wait to share the theatre itself with audiences. There are many of us who have never had the opportunity to see a concert or a film here, so I’m thrilled to be able to present this opportunity to them.
We noticed the barrier in front of the building was recently removed and the sidewalk is clear. What’s next?
TATIJUANA: Now we are focusing on getting the interior complete. The important things that we are working on are the floors throughout the theatre and the installation of chairs in the audience chamber.
What is your dream event for the new theatre?
TATIJUANA: I would love to play the first six episodes of Star Wars on May 4th (“May the Fourth be With You” Day to Star Wars fans). It would be cool if people dressed up as their favorite characters to really get into the spirit while watching the films.
