Ghostlight

220. ICYMI, David Deaton

The conversation explored the challenges and opportunities in the performing arts industry, focusing on the impact of technology, authenticity, and the future of live performances. David Deaton shared insights on his music and film scoring career, the challenges of connecting with audiences, and the sustainability of live performances. The discussion also explores the role of self-promotion, the influence of creativity on health, and the potential for technology and AI to shape the future of live performances.

219. Good Birth Upcoming World Premier

In this special episode of Ghostlight, Benjamin Reed sits down with playwright and Endstation Theatre Company Executive Director Patrick Earl to discuss Good Birth, Endstation’s upcoming world premiere production exploring the origins of Virginia’s eugenics movement and the infamous Supreme Court case Buck v. Bell. What begins as a planning conversation around livestreaming the production quickly evolves into a broader discussion about the future of theatre, digital access, and how performing arts organizations can continue engaging audiences beyond the walls of a physical venue. Together, Benjamin and Patrick explore: * the historical inspiration behind Good Birth * the challenge of expanding access to live performance * livestreaming and digital experimentation in theatre * recurring audience support and sustainability * why “the performing arts have an access problem, not a value problem” * and what becomes possible when small theatre companies stop assuming small outcomes This episode is less a formal interview and more a real-time conversation between artists and operators trying to imagine what the next era of live performance could look like.

218. Ginna Hoben

In this episode of Ghost Light, Benjamin Reed sits down with playwright, director, educator, and performer Ginna Hoben for a candid conversation about the realities of building a life in the arts. Together they explore artistic identity, the mechanics of effective storytelling, and the tension between creative fulfillment and financial sustainability. Ginna shares how playwriting unexpectedly became one of the most financially leveraged parts of her career, how her play The Twelve Dates of Christmas developed a life beyond her direct involvement, and what it means to create work that resonates deeply with audiences. The conversation moves through topics including artistic labor, self-worth, scarcity mindset, unpaid creative work, and the evolving economics of theater. Along the way, Benjamin and Ginna discuss the myth of the “starving artist,” the importance of communal storytelling, and why live performance still matters in an increasingly digital world. Takeaways * Diversification of Artistic Roles * Financial Leverage in Playwriting Artists invest time without immediate ROI * The importance of communal storytelling in theater Chapters * 00:00 Introduction to Artistic Identity and Roles * 37:48 The Artist's Investment * 43:36 Managing Finances as an Artist * 51:40 Theater in 2026 * 59:32 The Myth of the Starving Artist * 01:08:25 The Future of Theater

217. Jeremy West

Jeremy West, the founder of Silver Line Theater Exchange, discusses the founding of the theater, his evolving roles as an educator, artist, and entrepreneur, the challenges of sustainability and revenue generation, the future of American theater, and the nonprofit challenges and waste in the industry. The conversation covers the topics of leveraging shared resources, community involvement and resource sharing, the live theater experience vs. cinema, theater as a communal experience, and creating opportunities for emerging artists. These themes highlight the importance of collaboration, community engagement, and the unique value of live theater experiences. Takeaways * Founding a theater company requires identifying gaps in the community and offering unique educational and theatrical experiences. * Balancing the roles of educator, artist, and entrepreneur is an evolving process that impacts decision-making and priorities. * The future of American theater lies in the sustainability and adaptability of small theater companies, especially in the face of economic challenges and changing audience preferences. Community involvement reduces waste and fosters collaboration * Live theater offers a unique communal experience Chapters * 00:00 Founding Silver Line Theater Exchange * 05:58 Sustainability and Revenue Generation * 15:03 The Future of American Theater * 24:56 Nonprofit Challenges and Waste in the Industry * 31:05 Leveraging Shared Resources * 36:33 Live Theater Experience vs. Cinema * 42:39 Theater as a Communal Experience * 53:24 Creating Opportunities for Emerging Artists

216. Brian Dickel

The conversation explores the transition from being a touring musician to becoming a business owner, the challenges faced by touring musicians, and the impact of the pandemic on the music industry. The conversation delves into the financial struggles faced by artists and business owners in the arts industry, highlighting the challenges of balancing financial sustainability with artistic passion. It also explores the impact of technology on the arts and music industry, shedding light on the evolving demands and changes in the industry landscape. Takeaways * Transition from musician to business owner * Challenges of being a touring musician * Impact of the pandemic on the music industry Challenges of balancing financial sustainability with artistic passion * The impact of technology on the arts and music industry Chapters * 00:00 Transition from Musician to Business Owner * 14:46 Impact of the Pandemic on the Music Industry * 26:07 Financial Struggles in the Arts Industry