BW alumna living the dream working for Disney Theatrical Group

Just months after graduation, arts management and entrepreneurship alumna Stephanie Kelleher '19 is already living her new dream. What started as a meeting at a unique career fair staged by another BW grad turned into a position with Disney. Now, as tour management coordinator for Disney Theatrical Group, Kelleher helps bring magic to life across the country with the tours of "The Lion King," "Aladdin" and an upcoming tour of "Frozen."

"My position maintains our touring calendars, tracks conflicts with other Disney titles, touring route sheets, engagement contracts, insurance certificates, ticket pricing, tracks union labor agreements and everything in between," explained Kelleher. "I get to spend my time making sure our amazing teams on the road have everything they need to bring magic to audiences and have a smooth show."

"One of a kind" BW experience

A Virginia native, Kelleher attended an arts high school, where she first heard about BW through alumni. Some research led her to discover her match with BW's arts management program, which she describes as "one of a kind."

"I would never be here without the support and opportunities I got at BW," Kelleher said. "My mentors at BW influenced me so much, and continue to. From my department head [Bryan Bowser] to my supervisors at on-campus jobs, I received so much support and advice during both my studies and the job process.

"The best advice shared with me during my time at BW is some of my favorite now: in every decision you make, ask yourself if it is bringing you closer to what you want and who you want to be," Kelleher shared. "That 'tunnel vision' kept me on track and looking forward and ultimately got me here."

Staging success

Kelleher's path to working for Disney began at the first annual Staging Success Career Fair at Playhouse Square this spring. The Fair, produced by BW grad Megan Anderson '14, gives students and recent graduates in Northeast Ohio the opportunity to meet hiring managers from the performing arts industry, from producers of national tours to lighting and sound companies, to learn about internships and jobs.

Kelleher first met her now-boss and learned about the tour management coordinator position at the Fair. She applied for the job, but assumed she had not gotten it after hearing nothing back for weeks.

"Out of the blue one day, I got an email asking if I would interview," she shared, "and after many, many interviews and calls, I was offered the job a few weeks before graduation! It was unreal. Getting to tell my friends and support system at BW and have them celebrate with me made it even more special."