Team Spotlight: Darren Smith
- Power Entertainment Prod.
- Mar 26
- 4 min read
PEP is thrilled to have Darren as one of our Assistant Directors. In addition, he often represents PEP at local industry networking events. Read on for a behind-the-scenes interview with Darren...
IP (Isabel Power): Can you talk about your early years and when/why you started in the arts?
DS (Darren Smith): Growing up, I was the classic "class clown." I was a very talkative, friendly kid who just wanted to be seen and heard at any chance I got. However, it wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I truly embraced my energetic, outgoing personality and auditioned for my first play. I landed the role of Booker T. Washington in Ragtime, and that experience changed everything. For the first time, I really understood myself and my own potential. It showed me what could happen when I shifted all that natural energy toward something I was truly passionate about.
IP: How was your college experience, and what did you study?
DS: My college experience was one I’ll never forget! While the college was about 20 minutes from my home, I lived on campus to ensure I had the full experience. Also, I was very fortunate that my mother worked at the college, which afforded me the opportunity to receive a free college education. I started off as a double major in Political Science and Theatre (Acting & Directing), with a double minor in Music and Recreational Leadership. I later dropped Political Science and Music so I could focus on Theatre and Recreational Leadership. In 2013, I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree. (Speaking of college, I am currently pursuing a Master of Science in Project Management.)
IP: How did your studies help prepare you for the professional entertainment world?
DS: My studies gave me the confidence and time management skills I needed to thrive in the highly competitive entertainment industry. Success in entertainment isn't just about being the most talented; it’s about mastering your craft. While I am not yet where I envision myself being, that doesn’t stop me from moving closer to that vision every day.
IP: We're all a work in progress. :) What happened after college, and what eventually led you to Orlando?
DS: The semester before graduating I took the opportunity to be a part of Disney's College Program. I learned so many professional skills that I am able to apply in my current positions.
IP: What do you love about Orlando?
DS: Orlando is quite the vibe! It's so full of life, especially with the surrounding theme parks atmosphere. It's welcoming and inviting to everyone who visits, which is something I can personally relate to.
IP: Absolutely! What do you love about live entertainment?
DS: Live entertainment offers so many challenges that really push performers to always hit their mark. My confidence drives and inspires me to always be the best version of me each and every time I perform, regardless of the amount of people watching.
IP: Since you have years of experience as a professional entertainer, how does that experience serve you when working with PEP?
DS: As a performer, I have a first-hand understanding of the do's and don't's, and ins and outs, of the entertainment industry. That experience translates into what PEP delivers to its clients. We're always bringing excellence to the brand wherever we go!
IP: What do you enjoy about working with PEP?
DS: I enjoy the hard work that goes into everything behind-the-scenes. It's due to this unseen work that we are able to deliver experiences that exceed client expectations.
IP: In addition to performing with PEP, we're so happy to also have you as an on-site manager at events. What do you enjoy most about being a manager with PEP?
DS: I definitely enjoy the responsibility and the trust from PEP's founder, Isabel. And I enjoy achieving the goal of making our clients happy, along with witnessing the hard work that each manager, performer, and our founder puts into turning visions into reality.
IP: What excites you about the future?
DS: The future is a bright one for sure! Personally, I'm looking forward to the different cities and venues we will be showcasing our services!
IP: For sure! We love traveling to new destinations to delight audiences. What's one tip you'd offer to an aspiring performer?
DS: Be authentic and true to yourself, and never stop growing and moving no matter where you are in your life.
IP: What's one tip you'd offer to someone interested in booking live entertainment for an event?
DS: Simple. Why haven't you booked PEP yet?!
IP: Thank you Darren!
