Team Spotlight: Starr Needre
- Power Entertainment Prod.
- Apr 3
- 4 min read
PEP loves having Starr as one of our Assistant Directors. Read on for a behind-the-scenes interview with Starr...
IP (Isabel Power): Can you talk about your early years and when/why you started in the arts?
SN (Starr Needre): I began dancing when I was 3 years old, and once I started I never wanted to stop. Dance was always more than just a hobby for me - it was my life. I danced with Chamber Ballet (which turned into Virginia Regional Ballet) as I grew up, and I did The Nutcracker every year for 11 years. I also traveled to Germany twice to perform with the Robitshek Dance Ensemble. My dance training was my core. Throughout school, I also studied band (french horn), choir, and theater. It was important to me to be well rounded, and I took every opportunity I could.
IP: How was your college experience, and what did you study?
SN: I went to Marymount Manhattan College, where I received a BFA in Dance. I studied in a liberal arts program, so it gave me a diverse background in academic studies paired with artistic pursuits. It was wonderful getting to create movement and choreography during my time there, and develop my unique artistic voice. I had the opportunity to study abroad in Paris, France during college, and it truly showed me the world of dance and art history. College grew my artistic voice and prepared me for the dance industry. The program helped me see dance as a business, and the multiple different avenues available to achieve success in the arts.
IP: How did those studies help prepare you for the professional entertainment world?
SN: These studies showed me how discipline and dedication pay off. It also solidified how important it is to be well rounded in life, and that each experience helps prepare you for the variety of things life and this industry will throw your way. My training showed me how we are our own self starters, and that pursuing this career is pursuing a business for yourself. I also think living in New York City during this time of my life made me the most resilient. It’s true that if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere.
IP: What happened after college, and what eventually led you to Orlando?
SN: After completing my BFA, I performed for regional theaters, Princess Cruises, Legends in Concert, and various dinner shows, performing in West Side Story and The Addams Family to name a couple. I've had the opportunity to travel and perform all over the globe. Anytime I'd move somewhere for a new performing opportunity, I'd find a local studio to teach dance at. Honestly, I moved to Orlando with my husband because we knew there were many opportunities to perform in town, and we wanted to put down roots in a place with a thriving arts community.
IP: What do you love about Orlando?
SN: Orlando has an incredible arts community. It is such a supportive town, and there is a plethora of opportunities and a variety of different artists. It is a great place to be able to pursue a career in entertainment, and continue to support the arts by seeing shows and going to local experiences.
IP: How would you describe the impact you make as a performer?
SN: Live entertainment is so special to my heart because we are able to build connections and create memorable moments with those around us. People will never forget how you made them feel, and as a performer I love bringing a smile to someone’s face and creating an experience to last a lifetime.
IP: Since you have years of experience as a professional entertainer, how does that experience serve you when working with PEP?
SN: My years in the industry as a professional entertainer have taught me to be prepared for anything. I know how to pivot within seconds.
IP: What do you like about working with PEP?
SN: My favorite part of working with PEP is the team and the collaboration. I love helping with the creative side of PEP, and assisting in making the events the best they can be, whether that is performing, choreographing or managing. The entire PEP team is always the best of the best, and it is always a dream group to work with.
IP: What has been one of your favorite events you’ve worked as a performer with PEP?
SN: My favorite time performing for PEP was a 1920’s-themed event for a corporate client. The 20's is my absolute favorite Jazz era, and it was a complete pleasure getting to perform in this project (and be a part of the behind-the-scenes preparation as well!) My creative heart was fulfilled after this one!
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?
SN: It's always a joy to manage events for PEP, because I'm able to support the performers and be the person to help make adjustments needed for each venue. I love problem solving and being a helping hand. At every event, I lead with safety and the big picture top of mind, to ensure the client and guests have the best time possible!
IP: What excites you about the future/what are you looking forward to?
SN: I am excited to continue to grow and create. It is such a privilege to do what I love for a living, and I am thrilled to see what avenues open up in the entertainment industry whether that be behind-the-scenes or performing. I love variety, and I look forward to new events and projects to ignite that joy.
IP: What's one tip you'd offer to an aspiring performer?
SN: Persistence and kindness! Keep showing up for yourself. Keep being kind to yourself and others! Everyone has something to offer the world and a place in the entertainment industry. Keep giving your all, and things will fall into place.
IP: What's one tip you'd offer to someone interested in booking live entertainment for an event?
SN: Adding entertainment will transform the entire experience! It will add life, fun, and make the event something people will talk about for years. My tip? If you want to make an event memorable… add PEP!
