Kristin Dotson arrived in Tulsa in 1996 and joined Celebrity Attractions when the staff could fit around a single table. Today, she leads the company, presenting nationally touring Broadway in three regional markets. Over the years, she has worked in nearly every corner of the business, from box office to marketing to programming, eventually rising to CEO in 2017. She has helped bring blockbusters like The Phantom of the Opera, The Lion King, Wicked and Hamilton to the region, along with the national tour launch of The Outsiders. A member of the Broadway League and a Tony Awards voter, Dotson also plays a role on the national stage. We caught up with Dotson and got her thoughts on …
… what her journey with Celebrity Attractions has taught her.
Larry Payton, our founder, taught me that relationships are the foundation of success. After his passing, I have carried that theme through everything I do. I prioritize my relationships with staff, partners outside of the office and our patrons.
… how her hands-on experience has
affected her leadership style.
Wearing more hats means more experience and perspective. Because I have firsthand knowledge of so many aspects of the business, it is easier to lead and collaborate.
… a career moment that
stands out.
Absolutely, by far, the highlight of my career was opening The Outsiders tour
in Tulsa last fall. This is a special show with such a uniquely deep connection to our community, and feeling that energy on opening night is something I will never forget!
… what goes into deciding which shows come to Tulsa and other markets.
We put together a big puzzle when we curate the Broadway season: what titles are touring, the route of the tour and the availability of the Tulsa PAC. We also consider the financial component including how we think the market will react (i.e. will we sell tickets?) so we can set ourselves up to succeed.
… how Celebrity Attractions keeps subscribers coming back season after season.
We always cast a wide net for the season. We try to have a family show, maybe something classic and something new. We also strive to provide excellent customer service. Season subscribers trust us to entertain them, and we in turn provide the customer service they deserve.
… elevating the cultural life of Tulsa.
Having a vibrant arts scene in any community is vital to the quality of life. We are blessed in Tulsa to have world-class resident companies with Tulsa Ballet, Tulsa Symphony and Tulsa Opera. Add to that our amazing museums, the BOK Center and of course, nationally touring Broadway, and you can be entertained year-round.
… how her involvements with the Broadway League and the Tony Awards influence what she brings to the stage.
Connecting to others in our industry through the Broadway League allows me to engage with other markets across the country, learning what works and what doesn’t on the road. As a Tony voter, I will see every musical that opens on Broadway. So, when a show announces a national tour, I have firsthand knowledge of the content and how the audience received it.
… defining success at this stage of her life.
I have been a single mom for the last eleven years – just myself and my daughter. So when she left for college last fall, I thought I would fall apart. But at the end of the first week, she called to say “Mom, I am thriving!” I was so relieved and realized that her success is my success. And that applies to my friendships, my team at Celebrity and our partners and patrons. When you have mutually beneficial relationships, everyone wins.
