We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Doug Hanson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Doug below.
Hi Doug, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
In 2017, I took a pretty significant risk by leaving my secure full time job performing at Disney World in Florida to pursue my passion for film and television in California. It was a leap of faith, but one that I felt compelled to take in order to fully explore my potential in the entertainment industry. Over the past seven years, this decision has been transformative to say the least. I’ve signed with a talent agency which allows me to secure roles and opportunities that align closer to my acting career goals. Additionally, I’ve grown a successful comedy group on social media, using platforms to connect with audiences worldwide. This journey has been challenging at times, but ultimately incredibly rewarding. It has taught me the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and staying true to my creative vision. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited for what the future holds as I continue to pursue my dreams in the entertainment industry.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I was born in New Jersey and have been passionate about performing for as long as I can remember. My performing journey began at a young age… I even sang before I spoke my first words! As a child, I auditioned for major movies like “The Sixth Sense” starring Bruce Willis and “Big Daddy” starring Adam Sandler. My love for acting led me to take classes throughout my childhood, and when I moved to Arizona during first grade, I discovered a deep passion for theatre at a local community playhouse. I immersed myself in theatre productions all through school and in my community and continued to perform until I graduated high school back on the east coast.
Determined to pursue a career in musical theatre, I moved to New York City and attended Wagner College, where I graduated with a BA in Musical Theatre. At Wagner, I had the incredible opportunity to learn from some of the best teachers in the industry, honing my skills and expanding my artistic horizons.
After graduating, I was hired to perform full-time at Disney World in Orlando, Florida, an experience that was both magical and formative. After three enriching years at Disney, I moved to California in search of new opportunities and creative challenges.
In 2019, I met my creative partner, Lydia, and together we founded Cosmic Force Comedy, a successful comedy group on social media. Our group has gained a loyal following, and we’re dedicated to bringing laughter and joy to our audience. As a proud gay man, representation in media is very important to me. I strive to stay true to myself and ensure that our content reflects diversity and authenticity.
In addition to my work with Cosmic Force Comedy, I am a classically trained singer with a background in musical theatre, jazz, and pop music. I perform bi-monthly with a cabaret group called Nancy’s Cabaret in Southern California, where I have the pleasure of showcasing my vocal talents and connecting with audiences through music with other talented performers.
What sets me apart is my diverse background in the performing arts and my commitment to authenticity and representation. I am proud of my journey and the creative works I produce, and I am passionate about making a positive impact through my art.
For those who follow my work, I want you to know that I am dedicated to creating content that is both entertaining and meaningful. Whether it’s through comedy, music, or theatre, my goal is to connect with people and bring a bit of joy and inspiration into their lives.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative for me is the ability to connect with people on a deeply emotional level. Whether I’m performing in a theatre production, singing in a cabaret, or creating content for Cosmic Force Comedy, I find immense joy in knowing that my work can bring laughter, inspiration, and a sense of connection to others.
As a proud gay man, representation in media is incredibly important to me. Seeing how my authentic self can resonate with and empower others in the LGBTQ+ community is profoundly fulfilling. It’s rewarding to know that I can be a source of visibility and support for those who might not see themselves represented often enough.
Additionally, collaborating with other talented artists and continually learning from them is an enriching experience. Each project and performance allows me to grow, both personally and professionally, and I cherish the bonds formed with fellow creatives who share my passion.
Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect is the impact my work has on people’s lives. Whether it’s making someone laugh with our comedy skits or moving an audience with a heartfelt performance, knowing that I can touch hearts and minds through my art is what makes this journey so incredibly fulfilling.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
In my point of view, society can best support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem by fostering an environment that values and invests in the arts. This starts with comprehensive arts education from a young age, ensuring that children have access to music, theatre, visual arts, and other creative disciplines. Encouraging creativity and artistic expression in schools lays a strong foundation for a culture that appreciates and supports the arts.
Public and private funding is also crucial. Governments, corporations, and individuals should recognize the importance of the arts and provide the necessary financial support for artists and creative projects. Grants, scholarships, and sponsorships can make a significant difference in enabling artists to pursue their passions without the constant struggle of financial instability.
Another key aspect is creating inclusive and diverse platforms for artists to showcase their work. Representation matters, and it’s vital that artists from all backgrounds, including marginalized communities, have opportunities to share their stories and perspectives. This not only enriches the cultural landscape but also fosters a sense of belonging and validation for all individuals.
Moreover, society should celebrate and consume art actively. Attending local theatre productions, visiting art galleries, supporting independent musicians, and engaging with online content from creative groups like Cosmic Force Comedy are all ways to show appreciation for the arts. This engagement provides artists with the encouragement and financial backing they need to continue their work.
Lastly, fostering a culture of collaboration and mentorship within the arts community can help sustain a thriving creative ecosystem. Established artists should be encouraged to mentor emerging talents, and collaborative projects should be supported and celebrated. This not only helps to pass on knowledge and skills but also builds a strong, interconnected community that can collectively advocate for the arts.
By valuing arts education, providing financial support, promoting inclusivity, actively engaging with the arts, and encouraging collaboration, society can create an environment where artists and creatives can thrive, enriching our cultural tapestry and enhancing our collective human experience.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @cosmicforcecomedy @thedoughanson
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedoughanson
- Twitter: @thedoughanson
- Youtube: @cosmicforcecomedy
