Deborah Johnson

Surviving in in the volatile field of Performing Arts makes one uniquely qualified to speak on the subject of positive mental code in life and leadership. Creating personal and professional momentum, working with a wide variety of team members including agents, managers, meeting planners and scores of artists and actors equips one in running numerous varied projects and programs. I have discovered how to walk the delicate tightrope of negotiation in running showcase rooms across the country, with artists, agents, managers and hotels. During my production of one of my large original musical world premieres, the theatre was red-tagged and I definitely felt stuck! However, through that experience, staying strong and making quick, assertive decisions for a large group of actors was imperative in discovering viable solutions. (fortunately the fire department came and opened up the theatre at the last moment and the show went on!) In order to create business and stay in business, the mindset of a sole proprietor sitting at a table for one has been fundamental to my new and ongoing business. It has taken courage, emotional strength and a clear mindset to make decisions, communicate and lead wide-ranging personality types that tend to be involved in the arts. Graduate degrees alone don’t give one the ability and discernment to navigate this tightrope. However, experience, teaching and a lifelong learning attitude all work together to make the research and message directly relevant and applicable. A love for clients and audiences add to my passion for what I do. I have been an instructor as well as an entertainer since the age of 13 and probably won’t quit anytime soon!