Jonathan Barr, co-founder of The Imagination House, a full service, creative production company, based in Orlando, Fla., theimaginationhouse, will present a special lecture at Stetson University 2:30-3:30 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 29, in McMahan Hall, 417 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand. This special presentation is sponsored by Stetson University’s School of Music. The event is free and open to the public.

Barr’s presentation will focus on entrepreneurial skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing entertainment industry and his path to enormous success since leaving the academic environment. The Imagination House was co-founded by Barr, who was a former music composition major at Stetson in the early ‘90s. He began his career as consultant for Walt Disney Entertainment in 1994 and went on to become one of the most prolific producers of music for Disney worldwide from Tokyo to Paris, Los Angeles to Orlando.  His parades and stage shows are among the most popular Disney productions ever.

Barr has worked with world class orchestras including the London Symphony Orchestra, and his clients include NASCAR, EA Sports, Kodak, Volkswagen, Sandals Resorts, Universal Studios, Hard Rock and Academy Award winner Jennifer Hudson, among many others. His talents are also one of the key ingredients to the success of the Disney Cruise Line. From christening ceremonies to unique on-board events, to stage shows, even collaborating with the Muppets, Barr’s creative contributions are part of DCL’s rating as #1 in Entertainment for the industry. His credits also include televised events such as ABC’s Christmas Parade Special, and the 2007 Tournament of Roses Parade. Jonathan also received a Platinum Record and Grammy Award in Japan for The Club Disney Album produced for Tokyo Disneyland.

In response to the increasing needs of producers and directors, Barr has recently launched “Imagine It Entertainment” to develop original music for the film and television industry. The Imagination House offers in-house graphics, design, concept development, and video and music production/recording services. Their projects and clients range from intimate corporate videos to full scale master planning and theme park design. As a group that participates and produces nationally and internationally, they are called upon quite often to consult and advise in all areas of the entertainment industry.

For more information on the Aug. 29 lecture, contact Patrece Robinson, adjunct professor of music at Stetson, at (386) 956-2261 or email [email protected].