125: The Creative and Cultural Industries on Tour

Catalyst is a Creative Industries podcast, from Chapman University. Each episode features Chapman students who have completed a Podcasting course through the Center for Creative and Cultural Industries at the university. Students who had no podcasting experience or technical ability in the genre before taking the course were able to contribute all the segments to Catalyst this season with the goal being that they will take this ‘hands-on’ experience and carry it over to the launching of their very own series. Each episode of Season 14 will feature one to two different interviews conducted by CCI students, exploring different aspects of the Creative and Cultural Industries.

First up is Hayden Dalton sits down with Morgan Dench, the current tour director for Sabrina Carpenter. With more than two decades of experience, Morgan reflects on her remarkable journey, beginning with her first job on Sesame Street Live, which she credits for laying the foundation of her career. From there, she built an impressive resume touring with acts as John Mayer, Harry Styles, and the Spice Girls. She shares insights into the many roles she has taken on in the touring industry—including tour accountant, tour manager, and tour director—while reflecting on where she fits best and what she enjoys most. The pair end the interview with some strong advice for those who are thinking about the many and varied roles that are out there in the world of live entertainment touring.

We end the season’s first episode with Lauren Oh and her in-depth interview with Brandon Moreno, a triple threat performer who has just wrapped up the North American touring production of Mean Girls: The Musical. Lauren talks to Brandon about what life is like on the road as part of a touring company. He recounts his journey from training at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York & Los Angeles to landing a spot on a Broadway national tour. Together, Lauren and Brandon bond over their love of musical theatre as he opens up about his daily routines, audition experiences, and the discipline required to maintain his skills as a well-rounded performer. With honesty and optimism, Brandon reflects on both the challenges and rewards of the industry, offering listeners a candid glimpse into the world of Broadway touring.