Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Don Welch. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Don thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
From as long as I can remember, I knew that I wanted to and WOULD have a career in this industry. In fact, I was known a s a child prodigy, singing and performing in concert as a soloist professionally from age 14 before moving into theater as a national playwright in 1986. back in my hometown of Philadelphia, PA. Now over 35 years later, I am still here, adding Television directing and Film directing to my resume.
Don, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
A blessing for me was having a mother who recognized my God-given talents at an early age. She immediately enrolled me in private voice and piano lessons. From there I got heavily involved in the local theater scene in Philly. In 2000, at the urging of family friend, megastar Will Smith I moved to LA to pursue more theater, TV and film opportunities. He immediately set up meetings for me with agents and producers and became an intricate part of my rising career building. Even coming on board as a co-producer for one of my first tours. I’ve always been a go-getter and process a great work ethic. I’m known for getting the job done. Working hard has always been a part of my make-up. Two words I despise are: Lateness and procrastination. My entertainment company Don B. Welch Productions has been in existence since 2000. We have hired over 600 actors and singers over the years to appear in one of our many stage productions, TV shows and independent films. One of the most recent accomplishments that I am proud of is the national success of my first short film “Babygirl”, which deals with underground sex trafficking of black and brown girls. It has won many festivals in America and around the world, including 3 top honors at Cannes Film Festival in Nice, France 2021. Also, we became eligible for the 2022 Academy awards for short films.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
It’s plain and simple: Just be more open to treat every creative fairly and less judgmental if an artist has a different way of expressing their talents. This world needs more love, patience an acceptance…. within reason of course. And support is so important. And that doesn’t just mean monetarily, but in every way possible.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
Putting a smile one everyone’s face that I come in contact with after sharing intricate stories of my culture and people thru my comedy, dramatic and musical writings.
Contact Info:
- Website: donbwelchproductions.com
- Instagram: @donaldwelch
- Facebook: Donald Welch
- Twitter: @theonlydonb
Image Credits
Photo credit: Michael Letterlough Jr.