An Interview on the Live Theater Industry with Camille Brown, Choreographer for the Broadway revival of the musical Gypsy

How did you first get involved in the live theater industry?

My mother introduced me to musical theater at a very young age. We watched her favorite movie musicals and she also took me to Broadway shows. As a student, I went the concert dance route. I asked Georgiana Pickett for advice on how I could break into the industry since concert dance was (is) a completely different world. She suggested that along with speaking about my company, Camille A. Brown & Dancers, I also share that I’m interested in a career in theater.

In 2011, Daniel Aukin contacted me and asked if I was interested in meeting with him to interview for the choreographer position on Fortress of Solitude. He said my work in concert dance was very theatrical and he was really drawn to it. I met with him and got the job. It was my first job as a choreographer for theater.

For more travel ideas, you can Download the Magazine and Subscribe to LeisureGroup Travel for FREE

What’s been your proudest professional achievement to date?

I think the proudest achievement is that I haven’t given up. There are obstacles that can discourage you. It’s also very scary to lead a company and have a career as a director and choreographer for theater. Every day I get up and go into the studio is a proud moment.

What makes live theater such a powerful and enduring form of entertainment?

You feel the magic. All elements come together to tell a people story that touches people and changes lives. It’s the power of the arts singing in chorus with each other.

What are the biggest challenges facing live theater today?

Engaging and sustaining audiences.

What changes have you seen in group sales and tourism-driven attendance in recent years?

It seems that they have lowered. Theater took a big hit because of COVID-19.

What do you think regional theaters or smaller productions can learn from Broadway’s model—or vice versa?

I think both can learn from each other.

What advice would you give to destinations or travel planners who want to incorporate more live theater into their itineraries?

Make sure you carve out time to see a show. It could possibly change your life.

For more travel ideas, you can Download the Magazine and Subscribe to Leisure Group Travel for FREE