We were lucky to catch up with Lea (Muci) Li recently and have shared our conversation below.
Lea, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?
When I think about happiness in my career, it’s a mix of reflection, occasional wonder about the path not taken, and a deep-seated contentment with where I am. Yes, having studied law in undergrad, the thought of a regular job does cross my mind from time to time. It’s natural, I guess, to wonder about a life with more predictability, perhaps less risk. But then, I remember what draws me to the performing arts world: the chance to immerse myself in creativity and to contribute something truly unique.
For me, passion is the strongest motivator. It’s what gets me up in the morning, excited about the day’s challenges and opportunities. This industry allows me to blend my creative aspirations with practical skills in a way that feels both fulfilling and impactful. And it’s not just about the arts; it’s about bringing people together, telling stories that resonate, and creating experiences that linger long after the curtain falls.
Interestingly, my background in law hasn’t been left behind. Instead, it’s become an integral part of my toolkit. Skills like contract management, which might seem worlds apart from the glitz of theatre, are actually central to what I do. They allow me to navigate the complexities of licensing agreements, tour arrangements, and the myriad details that go into a successful production. It’s this combination of creativity and practicality that I find especially rewarding.
So, am I happy? Absolutely. It’s a happiness born from doing work that matters to me, blending my skills and passions in a way that feels both meaningful and exciting. Sure, the stability of a “regular job” has its appeal, but the fulfillment I find in my current path—where no two days are the same, and I can see the tangible results of my efforts—confirms I’ve made the right choice.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
In the ever-evolving landscape of theatre and live entertainment, my journey has been marked by a series of transformative experiences that have not only shaped my professional trajectory but also deepened my commitment to the creative industry. From my foundational experiences at the Tsinghua Performing Arts Center in Beijing to the dynamic and immersive world of New York’s theatre scene, each role has contributed to my comprehensive understanding of what it takes to bring a production from concept to reality.
My time at TBD Theatricals, under the mentorship of Tony-winning producer Hunter Arnold, was particularly enlightening. It offered me a hands-on experience in the nuances of Broadway production, from script analysis to the coordination of industry readings and workshops. This role honed my skills in project management, financial oversight, and the delicate art of investor relations, preparing me for the complexities of the commercial theatre landscape.
Currently, working in International Licensing and Touring at Broadway Asia, I’ve embraced the challenge of navigating the international theatre market, focusing on expanding the reach of Broadway productions across global markets, particularly in Mandarin-speaking territories. This role not only leverages my bilingual capabilities but also deepens my expertise in international licensing, touring logistics, and financial management, highlighting the universal appeal of storytelling through the arts.
In addition to these experiences in the theatre industry, a particularly defining moment in my career was co-founding A Stage Theatre. This venture was born out of a desire to fill a gap in the theatrical landscape by producing original plays and musicals that resonate with Asian stories and life experiences, all presented in Mandarin. Our first project, an original Mandarin musical titled “Awake,” was staged at the Soho Rep last year. As the production stage manager, I played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life, working closely with our talented team to navigate the complexities of live musical production. The success of “Awake” was a testament not only to my project management skills but also to our collective dedication to enriching the theatre scene with diverse and meaningful narratives.
Additionally, my artistic inclinations don’t stop at theatre. Music has been a parallel passion. In my free time, I’ve ventured into live music production. Collaborating on projects like the DNA NYC concert series with Nineteen95 has been a chance to champion emerging artists and fuse my organizational skills with a broader creative canvas.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
One of the most rewarding parts of my work is seeing new projects take shape and grow. I love being involved from the very beginning, from the first readings and workshops, all the way to seeing a show make it big on Broadway. It’s incredibly fulfilling to support these projects, to watch them develop and succeed. Each step of the way, from an idea to a full production, is a journey I cherish. It’s about helping creative ideas find their footing and watching them come alive on stage, reaching out and moving audiences.
On the international side of things, I find great joy in bringing Broadway shows to audiences around the world. It’s exciting to work with venues and theatre companies globally, figuring out which productions will best fit their audiences. There’s a real sense of pride in making these connections, in knowing that I’m helping to provide high-quality cultural experiences to people everywhere. This part of my job reminds me how art can cross borders, bringing us together no matter where we are in the world.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
After completing my undergraduate studies with dual degrees in Law and English, I stood at a significant crossroads. The expected path might have led me into a career in the legal field or academia, but I felt a compelling pull towards something that resonated more deeply with my passions. Making the decision to pursue a Master’s degree in Performing Arts Administration at NYU was not just a career pivot; it was a life-changing move. This decision meant leaving Beijing, my home, and moving to New York, the heart of the theatre world. It was a leap into the unknown, driven by my desire to blend my project management and legal skills with my love for the performing arts.
This transition was about more than just a change in geography; it was about immersing myself in an environment where theatre production is at its most vibrant and sophisticated. New York offered me the chance to learn from the best in the business, including Tony-winning producers, and to understand the intricate processes that make Broadway what it is. It was here that I began to see how my background could uniquely contribute to the world of theatre, allowing me to bring a fresh perspective to this dynamic industry. This pivot is not only about following my passion, but also serves as a magnificent chance to position myself where I could make the most impact, merging my diverse skill set with the creative process of theatre making.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fussyrabbitsays/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lea-li-372586230/