Lisa Tarantino ’93

11

“It’s no secret I’m a proud Clevelander and likewise, a proud Tiger! In my day, Heights High School offered students so many opportunities to learn, grow, expand and connect with each other. We were a diverse student body comprised of varied backgrounds, beliefs and interests. A great foundation for personal and professional growth. 

Inclusion in the CHHS Hall of Fame is something I value greatly. For one, I am in excellent company with some truly influential and memorable fellow alumni. But mostly because fellow Clevelanders have shown me kindness and welcomed me Home. A reminder that you never know whose lives you inspire by LIVING your own and pursuing your Passion(s). THAT is an Award I graciously accept. Thank you!”

“Will it be easy? No. Will it be worth it? Yes!” ~ Unknown

After earning a BM in classical voice from the Eastman School of Music, Lisa accepted an invitation to retrain for Broadway musicals in New York City. The events of 9/11 mandated a change and Lisa was forced to put her Broadway singing dreams aside and pursue other avenues in the creative arts. This brought her cross-country to Hollywood. Fifteen years later, Lisa remains a multi-hyphenate in the entertainment industry as an actress, stunt woman and producer. Among her repertoire are appearances on Scorpion, Animal Kingdom, The Bridge, Till Death, Truth or Dare (Blumhouse), Criminal Activities and most recently The Wrong Mommy (Lifetime). Additionally, Lisa helped create several characters in the Call of Duty/Black Ops gaming franchise, performed in countless commercials (she’s in the current Russo Brothers Cadillac spots), and continues to stunt and stunt double for other actresses in TV and film. For Lisa, home is where the storytelling is.

Education

Bachelor of Music (Voice), Eastman School of Music 

Current Occupation

Actress
Stunt Woman 

Achievements
  •  More than 170 credits in television, film, streaming content, commercials, industrials, top video games, print, live and televised spokesperson work, voice, and stage
  • Serving as a strong (and loud) ambassador for the infinite potential in others as well as an advocate for equality and women’s empowerment
  • A self-taught, published and awarded photographer, Lisa’s automotive and lifestyle images have graced several magazine covers
  • As a professional stuntwoman, Lisa has been set on fire – many times – on purpose
  • While at CHHS, Lisa participated in orchestra, band, Heights Singers, volleyball, track, swim team, Swim Cadets, and drama, while maintaining residency with the Cleveland Youth Wind Symphony and the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Chorus