We were lucky to catch up with Lindsay Lefler recently and have shared our conversation below.
Lindsay, thank you so much for joining us today and appreciate you talking about a sensitive topic. It’s unfortunately relevant to so many in the community as layoffs have been on the rise recently, and so we’d appreciate hearing your story and how you overcame being let go?
When I faced a layoff, I had to reconnect with why I got into this business in the first place. Ultimately, I’ve always wanted to help people get on stage and follow their dreams. Theater is incredible because it allows you to make people feel deeply while also calling out societal issues. This realization fueled my determination to continue and find new opportunities to support and uplift artists. My incredible husband Kevin and daughter June have been a constant source of support and inspiration throughout this journey.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m Lindsay Lefler, and my journey in the arts has always been about creating spaces where creativity can flourish, and diverse voices can be heard. Currently, I serve as the Managing Director of Theatre West in Los Angeles, the city’s longest continually running theater. Theatre West has a rich legacy of resilience, especially during the McCarthy era when it provided a sanctuary for blacklisted artists. This legacy inspires me deeply, as it remains incredibly relevant today while we navigate new societal challenges.
One of the most exciting aspects of my work at Theatre West is producing performances that entertain, provoke thought, and inspire change. We’re launching ‘WestFest,’ an annual festival featuring a diverse range of theatrical works. Running from August 30 to September 22, 2024, each week’s program offers a fresh perspective designed to intellectually engage and emotionally resonate. A long-standing favorite at Theatre West, this series highlights new and experimental works focusing on performances and storytelling through minimalist production.
Before Theatre West, I had the privilege of working with the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) as it expanded to Los Angeles, contributing to the establishment of its locations on Franklin and Sunset. At UCB, I held multiple roles, including General Manager, Head of Operations, and School Director. I directed, produced, and occasionally choreographed and wrote for the Quick & Funny Musicals, which enjoyed over a decade of sold-out performances. I also directed the stage version of Freak Dance: The Forbidden Dirty Boogaloo, which was adapted into a feature film.
During the pandemic, I led a small team at UCB, transitioning operations online and maintaining engagement with our community through virtual platforms. This involved livestreaming classes and performances, which helped keep the spirit of UCB alive during a challenging time. Before the pandemic, our staff numbered over 100, but we managed to sustain operations with a much smaller team. In 2023, I successfully reopened the theater, implementing new safety protocols and resuming in-person classes and shows. Additionally, I collaborated with SNL to develop the SNL Diversity Scholarship, furthering our commitment to nurturing diverse talent in the comedy world. My love for improv and comedy has always been a driving force in my career, and working with UCB allowed me to explore and expand this passion.
My journey began at Music Circus, Broadway Sacramento, which laid the foundation for my career in theater. I later joined the opening team at REDCAT in the Walt Disney Concert Hall, where I helped launch the Studio Series and the NOW Festival. After graduating from UC Irvine’s Claire Trevor School of the Arts, I co-founded Improv Shmimprov, which continues to play to sold-out crowds at the Maverick Theatre. These experiences have shaped my approach to theater, emphasizing creativity and social relevance.
I believe in the power of theater to entertain, provoke thought, and inspire change. This belief is central to everything I do, and I am dedicated to creating impactful and memorable experiences for both performers and audiences.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, the three qualities that most impacted my journey are resilience, a sense of humor, and a genuine joy for the arts.
1. Resilience: Like any art form, theater comes with its fair share of challenges and setbacks. Resiliency has been crucial when dealing with funding issues, navigating organizational changes, or facing a global pandemic. After helping UCB navigate through the pandemic, I experienced significant career disruptions. My advice to those early in their journey is to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Develop a thick skin, learn from your experiences, and keep pushing forward. Remember that setbacks are temporary, but your passion and determination can carry you through.
2. Sense of Humor: Humor has been essential, especially in theater. It helps diffuse tense situations, build strong relationships, and keep the creative process enjoyable. I love the feeling of seeing something unexpected or a surprise joke that has you laughing way too long. For anyone just beginning, embrace joyful stupidity with those who make you laugh. It’s the best way to learn and grow.
3. Joy for the Arts: A genuine joy for the arts has driven everything I do. I love seeing an artist break through and try something new that changes how they see themselves. This passion keeps me motivated and inspired, even during tough times. It’s important to love what you do, as this joy will shine through in your work and resonate with others.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Yes, I am always looking for folks to partner or collaborate with! Collaboration is at the heart of what I do, and I’m particularly interested in working with funny people passionate about theater, creativity, and making a positive impact through the arts. I’m eager to bring together a community of creative, outspoken, and bold individuals ready to shake things up and inspire change through the arts. I’d love to collaborate if you’re passionate about combining humor with social impact.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theatrewest.org
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsaylefler/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
