Chris Herzberger is a producer and the VP of Live Theatricals for Universal. In this role, he oversees the day-to-day operation and long-term growth initiatives of the studio’s live stage division, which includes both Universal Stage Productions and DreamWorks Theatricals. Universal’s credits include the worldwide phenomenon Wicked, the Tony Award-winning adaptation of Billy Elliot, the Tony-nominated production of Bring It On: The Musical, and the Broadway premiere of Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn. He began working professionally in the entertainment industry at the age of 14 when he cast as Billy in the much acclaimed Midwest premiere of Big, The Musical. In 2006, he began full-time work as the production assistant to Academy Award nominated writer/director/producer Gary Ross at Larger Than Life Productions and was subsequently promoted to Mr. Ross' 1st Assistant. 

Universal has one of the best track-records of all the studios on Broadway (Wicked, Billy Elliot, etc.). Chris talks about why he believes that is, as well as . . .

Why he gave up acting to pursue a producing career.

How he works hard at demonstrating to Broadway and its players that Universal isn’t some big “evil” corporation, but just a group of passionate people who love the theater.

Will TV shows inspire the next wave of Broadway shows?

Why he doesn’t announce the shows he is developing.

His “taste test” for what in the Universal catalog can be a musical and what can’t.

 

Keep up with me: @KenDavenportBway

www.theproducersperspective.com

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