Anya Kai, reporting

Brogan Nelson, a recent Musical Theatre graduate from the esteemed Boston Conservatory, embodies the spirit of a performer whose journey began with a single, indelible moment on stage. From a tender age, Nelson discovered a profound connection to the performing arts, a passion that has since become the cornerstone of her identity and aspirations.

The Genesis of a Performer

Nelson’s artistic awakening can be traced back to a fourth-grade talent show, where at just nine years old, she bravely sang Tim McGraw’s “Live Like You Were Dying,” complete with a “giant cowboy hat.” That singular experience ignited a lifelong commitment: “I will never forget the feeling of being on that stage… and knowing that from that moment on, performing would be a huge part of who I am.” For Nelson, the theatre is more than just a stage; it’s a sanctuary where “silliness is embraced, play is encouraged, and connections are shared.” It has been a space for self-discovery and bold expression, providing both comfort and exhilaration.

While the talent show sparked the initial flame, it was her first musical theatre summer camp experience that truly cemented her path as an artist. In stark contrast to previous sports camps where social anxiety often left her feeling like an outsider, this new environment offered an unexpected sense of belonging. Despite initial tears and fear on the first day, the camp instructor and a fellow camper immediately offered reassurance and warmth. A pivotal moment arrived during snack time when, instead of forming cliques, the group spontaneously decided to sit in a large circle to get to know each other. This act of communal openness resonated deeply with Nelson: “At that moment I felt like I had found my people. I thought it was so cool that everyone could be friends, and I felt like I really belonged (maybe for the first time ever).”

Performing the role of Corny Collins in Hairspray during that camp further solidified her love for being part of a collaborative creative process. This profound sense of community – of creating “something fun, and beautiful, and joyful” with others – became the driving force behind her artistic pursuits. Nelson views each show as a “new little community/family,” a unique and special experience that continues to inspire her daily.

Embracing Opportunities in the United States

Nelson’s decision to pursue her artistic career in the United States is largely driven by the unparalleled breadth of opportunities available. She notes the abundance of regional theatres producing “top tier professional shows,” Hollywood’s status as the world’s largest film industry, and New York City’s undisputed position as the “absolute hub for commercial musical theatre.” Beyond the sheer volume of work, Nelson is particularly drawn to the “competitive spirit in the States (especially NY),” believing it will allow her to achieve her significant career ambitions. Furthermore, the dream of living in NYC and performing on Broadway has been a cherished childhood aspiration, evident in her fifth-grade Instagram handle: “@futurebroadwaystar.”

Ambitious Visions for the Future

Brogan Nelson’s future goals are as diverse as they are ambitious, reflecting a desire to fully immerse herself in all facets of artistic creation. Top on her list is starring in a Broadway show and originating a role, a testament to her dedication to live theatre. Her passion extends to film, a medium she enjoys analyzing, with a significant goal of acting in a “really good film.” Beyond performing, she harbors aspirations to write and direct a film one day, envisioning something “hilarious and tragic and heartbreaking,” citing Damien Chazelle’s Babylon as her favorite movie and an inspiration.

Another long-held dream is to release an album and embark on a world tour with musicians, a nod to her childhood self’s desire to be a “rock star.” Academically, Nelson aims to pursue a Master’s degree in acting, with the intention of becoming a “highly distinguished teacher of the dramatic arts.”

Perhaps her most heartfelt goal, however, is deeply personal: to one day take her mother to the Tony Awards as a Tony-nominated performer. She attributes her resilience in a challenging industry to her mother’s “constant and endless support,” viewing this achievement as a profound tribute to their bond.

Brogan Nelson is clearly an artist driven by a deep love for connection, community, and the transformative power of storytelling. With a solid educational foundation, a clear vision, and an unwavering spirit, she is poised to make a significant impact across the stages and screens of the artistic world.

[photos by James Jin]