Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Christopher Michael. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Christopher thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

Without a doubt, I cannot imagine my life without the arts.

I was exposed to theatre at three years old, and from that moment on, I knew I wanted to perform. Storytelling has always been the root of my soul.

From the first time stepping onstage, I caught what people call the “theatre bug.”

Now, as a professional performer in New York City, I think back to the young kid who started all.

I vividly remember playing dress up in wizard robes, Disney character disguises, and my sister’s old figure skating costumes. Playing pretend. telling stories. I am grateful for the journey I’ve had and I’m excited for the adventures ahead. However, I’ve also learned that the industry comes with interesting challenges you simply cannot grasp as a child: rejection, inconsistent work, rejection, financial instability, and yes, more rejection. It’s not for the faint of heart.

But even with all that, I’m so happy.

The best weeks are a whirlwind—five or six auditions, a couple of dance classes, a voice lesson, maybe a cabaret performance, and three self-tapes to film. It’s thrilling. But you may be wondering: do any of those things pay you? How are you affording NYC rent?

Great question.

Like many performers, I’ve built a patchwork life that supports my artistry. I work remotely in marketing and UGC content creation (both arts-adjacent), and I also take on retail and brand ambassador roles. I’ve curated a life where I’m constantly surrounded by the arts. It fuels me creatively.

Of course, I have moments where I wonder what life would have been like if I pursued a different career. But I am firm believer that everything happens for a reason. And I’ve made it this far, right?? Can’t quit now!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

A few years ago, a critic called me “one hell of an artist”—a phrase that will stay with me forever. More than a compliment; it is a reminder of the emotional resonance that theatre can have. Sure, it’s subjective. But I’ll take the win nonetheless.

For background, my name is Christopher Michael. I am a New York City-based musical theatre performer and creative, plus a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association. My performance career has taken me Off-Broadway, across the country regionally, and around the globe on international tours.

Performance
Select Theatre Credits: Gudgeon in Agatha Christie’s The Hollow (Off-Broadway at The Players Theatre), Male Swing in E.G.G. (The Tank NYC), Mr. Puppy in the premiere reading of Mr. Puppy the Musical (JSC Theatricals), Blippi in The Wonderful World of Blippi Tour, among others,

Marketing
I serve as the Marketing Manager and Associate Producer for Bailey Street Entertainment, a New York-based company specializing in live events and immersive experiences. We’re currently producing Pixar Putt, a touring mini-golf sensation inspired by Pixar’s most iconic stories and characters. Recently, Bailey Street led the technical production of Founded by Broadway, a free Times Square concert featuring 23 Broadway shows in celebration of NYC’s 400th anniversary. At Bailey Street, we’re a passionate collective of storyteller and creatives committed to bringing meaningful narratives to life. Our team thrives on collaboration and innovation, specializing in crafting unforgettable experiences that captivate and inspire.
Link: https://www.baileystentertainment.com

My creative reach extends into the digital world through UGC (user-generated content) as well, where I’ve partnered with brands like Tempur-Pedic, Microsoft Copilot, Raymour & Flanigan, and Kraken. I strive to craft content that feels authentic and engaging—rooted in creative storytelling.

Arts Education & Advocacy
I’m deeply committed to arts accessibility, diversity, and inclusion. As a teaching artist with Inside Broadway and a freelance dance educator, judge, and choreographer, I believe in nurturing the next generation of artists. Similarly, I starred as Safari Sid in The Adventures of Zoophonia and Safari Sid with Zoo-phonics®, an educational web series focused on phonics and phonemic awareness. At my core, I believe the arts are a vital tool for empowerment, empathy and advocacy, especially in young minds.

Roots
Originally from Michigan, I earned dual Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Arts & Humanities from Michigan State University, with minors in Musical Theatre and Dance. After graduating during the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020 , I hit the ground running—interning at Gulfshore Playhouse, serving as a Brand Ambassador for RWS Entertainment at Storyland NH, and performing in the opening cast of LEGOLAND NY Resort.

Explore more at www.christophermichaelx.com
IG: @christopherxmichael

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

As performers, we’re taught to never stop learning, never stop growing. But beyond the usual dance classes and vocal lessons, what else is out there?

Well—I’ll tell you! Recently, I found myself in a few workshop-style classes that are incredible resources to honing skills and artistry:

Broadway Ensemble Project offers a Rehearsal-Style class that mirrors the energy and precision of a first day of music rehearsal. It’s a fast-paced, 90-minute session where singers prep with part tracks and PDFs, then dive into ensemble blend, musicality, and efficient learning. Perfect for staying sharp between gigs.
Link: https://www.broadwayensembleproject.com

Interim Dance Collective provides free (yes, free!) high-quality dance classes for professional artists navigating career transitions in NYC. It’s a supportive space to move, connect, and stay creatively fulfilled—without financial barriers.
Link: https://www.interimdance.org

Resources like these are a powerful reminder that the arts thrive on collaboration—and that finding community is key to feeling supported, inspired, and truly at home in this industry,

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is telling stories.

Ever since I can remember, I’ve been drawn to storytelling—it’s one of the most raw and human things we do. From playing pretend in dress-up costumes to getting lost in books and films, I’ve always craved imagination and connection.

Even now, a piece of my inner child smiles every time I dive into character work. I find joy in script analysis, in asking: What does the character bring to the table? What do I as the actor bring? Where do we overlap? Where do we clash?

The same goes for storytelling in marketing work: without a compelling narrative, it is difficult to gain trust and communicate brand or campaign values. Impactful storytelling in marketing nurtures the relationship between a brand and its audience.

Storytelling connects us. It ignites us.

To end, I’d love to ask you (the reader) to consider a few thoughts:

Do you remember the last time someone told you a great story? Or the last movie/book/show you consumed? What made it compelling? What kept you leaning in? Why did you care?

Contact Info:

• Website: www.christophermichaelx.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherxmichael

Image Credits
Christopher Michael Headshot: Willem B Photography
All other portraits: Andrew Alstat Photography