Natalie Brandy

Arts Management

Natalie Brandy is a recipient of the 2020 Chicagoland Transfer Award Scholarship. If you are a transfer student and would like to apply for this award, click here to learn more. 

What made you choose Columbia?

I knew that I wanted to study in Chicago. Columbia was one of a select number of schools that had my major, so it caught my eye. I have always heard good things about Columbia growing up in the suburbs, and Columbia's program was the best fit for my personal needs.

What do you plan on studying during your time here?

I plan to major in Arts Management with a concentration in the Performing Arts. I have always loved theatre and been fascinated by the industry, so this career is a perfect balance between my strengths and passions. I cannot wait to learn more about how I can thrive in this career. 

What are your career goals at this time?

I would love to do marketing or management of a theatre company or in the realm of theatre. Working for Broadway in Chicago, The Chicago Shakespeare Theater, or The Lyric Opera would definitely be dream places for me to work. I would also definitely be interested in working for a touring production.

What do you most look forward to about learning and creating in Chicago?

I love Chicago so, so much and have been so blessed to grow up so close to the city. I am excited to live in the city full time and to be inspired by the local art. I am looking forward to making connections and the collaborations that will result from them. 

How do you see your artistic practice engaging with contemporary events?

Theatre has been a crucial form of entertainment during COVID, and has become more accessible than ever — Andrew Lloyd Webber’s YouTube channel "The Shows Must Go On" and the release of Hamilton on Disney Plus being two examples of this new accessibility. The irony of it being so accessible from home is that it is not accessible in person (currently). I think COVID is definitely going to result in some changes regarding both the accessibility of theatre and other significant elements of the business, and I look forward to being a part of the conversation as well as being a part of the solutions.