We recently connected with Sarah De Leon and have shared our conversation below.
Sarah , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Earlier this year, I returned home in a foul mood—utterly despondent. Despite having produced a terrific show, I was having none of it.
I know, I was confused too.
I sat down, grabbed the nearest puppy, and did what I usually do when societal courtesies prevent me from burning a building: I wrote.
What emerged was a thinly disguised allegory for how I felt about my career and the place I hold in people’s lives.
**The Ringleader**
“Ladies and Gentlemen…” the ringleader announces in the center of the stadium.
“…Boys and girls….” She pauses for dramatic effect, and the audience is on the edge of their seats, waiting.
“…you are in for a treat.” Children crane their necks to make sure they can see.
“…feast your eyes on the amazing…”
The audience erupts in applause as the ringleader steps out of the spotlight.
As acrobats fly overhead,
and swords are swallowed….
As clowns dance,
And contortionists move…
The ringleader watches as the audience focuses on anyone but them.
And after the benches clear,
And all that’s left behind is trash and the distant sound of merriment…
The ringleader stands in the center of an empty room.
Somewhere backstage, the dancers are being praised…
Outside, children take pictures with the clowns.
And she remembers that no one comes to the circus to see the ringleader.
—
Since grade school, I’ve surrounded myself with incredibly talented and gifted artists.
Despite having big dreams and aspirations for myself, I’ve come to realize that a significant portion of my life has been spent helping the artists around me. Whether as a producer, host, writer, administrator, section leader, stage manager, event manager, talent manager, or just a good friend, much of what I’ve accomplished has been setting the stage for others to shine.
I grew up aspiring to be on Broadway, a Disney Princess, or a New York Rockette.
When I realized I couldn’t sing as well as some classmates and there were no Disney Princesses that looked like me, I led a life hiding backstage, hoping that my work still meant something.
I became my own artistic marauder, telling myself that if I couldn’t be the talented artist, I should lead a life in service to those who are.
Only recently have I begun to give myself more credit for everything I’ve done and am still doing.
I wish I could say there was some giant “Aha!” moment that led to this conclusion, but life isn’t as neatly plotted as stories.
Since that night I came home and wrote that free-verse poem of a ringleader, I haven’t had a lot of sleep. My insomnia comes and goes, and this latest bout has been a doozy.
It’s as if my mind is forcing me to spend these quiet, sleepless nights in deep personal reflection. As tired and cranky as I’ve been, it has been an effective tool in helping me put my life into a different perspective.
My resume, long and varied, is a tapestry of good deeds.
I like to think every late-night production meeting, every carefully worded email, every casting session, every word of encouragement, and really every decision I made—big or small—made a ripple that helped artists succeed.
The ringleader’s talent is not what is seen but lies in the unseen actions that created the very show audiences applaud.
I am still carving out an artistic path for myself. Although I may never sing on Broadway or get to be a Disney Princess, perhaps I can be the one producing Broadway shows, or writing about a Princess that does look like me.
And the unseen talents—all the little things I’ve done and am still doing to carve out my own path as an artist and create entertainment that brings joy to others—are just as remarkable and an art form in itself.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am building a brand based on my stage name: Sweet Serendipity. Under this name I am a captivating burlesque performer, host, and model, known for my charming and enchanting stage presence.
Beyond the stage, I am the driving force behind Sweet Serendipity Productions LLC, my own Production Company dedicated to crafting exceptional media and live entertainment experiences.
As the creative director of The Muse Collective, a rapidly growing performing arts troupe based in Eugene Oregon, I play a pivotal role in shaping and producing dynamic live shows that captivate diverse audiences.
In addition to my roles in production and performance, I am a host for live events. Currently, I host a monthly Fire, Flow, & Shibari show.
My creative journey extends beyond the spotlight into the realm of freelance writing. I craft personal essays, screenplays, and more, with my work having been published by reputable outlets such as The LA Times, The Chronicle in Springfield Oregon, and Adelaide Magazine. I have also written several award-winning short films.
As I navigate the creative landscape, my aspirations include returning to filmmaking and television production. Fueled by dreams of crafting animated films and contributing to multi-cam sitcoms, I eagerly anticipate reentering the vibrant world of media creation after a temporary pause prompted by the pandemic.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities that have been particularly impactful are:
1. **Risk Taking:** Embracing risks has allowed me to step outside my comfort zone, opening doors to new opportunities and experiences. My advice to those early in their journey is to acknowledge that growth often lies beyond the familiar. Be willing to take calculated risks, as they can lead to invaluable personal and professional development.
2. **Keeping an Open Mind:** Remaining open-minded has been essential in navigating the twists and turns of my journey. It’s crucial to embrace change, be receptive to diverse perspectives, and continually learn. For those at the beginning of their journey, I recommend approaching challenges with an open mind, seeing them as opportunities for learning and growth rather than obstacles.
3. **Finding the Best in Everyone:** Recognizing the positive qualities in others has not only fostered meaningful connections but has also created a supportive network. My advice is for individuals starting their journey to cultivate a mindset that seeks out the strengths and potential in those around them. Building positive relationships contributes significantly to personal and professional success.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
I owe a lot to my mentors; without them, I doubt I’d be where I am today. I actively pursue relationships with individuals who embody authenticity, trustworthiness, and kindness. I look for people who share similar values and demonstrate success in areas I aspire to develop.
Currently, I benefit from the guidance of a film/producing mentor and a burlesque mentor. Their presence alone instills a sense of strength in me, knowing there are supportive individuals eager to assist and stand by me on my journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.sarahdeleon.com
- Instagram: @thesweetsarahd & @sweetserendipityprod
Image Credits
Yona Appletree and Shimizu Photography
