Written by: Lauren Smith, Entrepreneurial Leadership Program, Masters in Dance 2026
This summer, I was reminded just how important it is to be flexible and open-minded – especially as an artist and entrepreneur. My love for the arts and my experience in international business both drive the work I do today. As the Founder and Artistic Director of Lauren Blair Smith Dance Company, based in Singapore, I’ve combined both worlds into a career that’s creative, challenging, and deeply meaningful.
From Graduation to Global Performances
Raised in Singapore, I recently graduated with my BFA and a minor in Arts Entrepreneurship from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. I didn’t expect to start a company right away, but one opportunity led to another, and my vision quickly turned into action. During the pandemic, we were able to produce our first live performance in Singapore. It was a major milestone, made possible through local support, hard work, and thoughtful planning. The goal was simple: keep the arts alive during a difficult time. Since then, we’ve grown into a vibrant group of international collaborators, artists trained at Juilliard, the New Zealand School of Dance, Taipei National University of the Arts, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, Philippine High School for the Arts, and more.
Wearing many Hats (& at the same time)
Right after starting my company, I joined the Broadway National Tour of Fiddler on the Roof, directed by Tony Award-winner Bartlett Sher. I performed in over 400 shows in over 100 cities across the U.S. and Canada, while also running my company back in Singapore. At the same time, I completed a Lincoln Center Fellowship in New York City. As a Fellow, I worked with an interdisciplinary team to develop a new stage production and create lesson plans using the Aesthetic Education model. Juggling performances, rehearsals, lesson planning, and administrative work was not easy, but it taught me what it really means to be a multi-hyphenate entrepreneur. I wasn’t just dancing. I was managing people, creating content, and keeping our mission alive across time zones.
why I joined ELP
I joined the Entrepreneurial Leadership Program (ELP) at the University of Michigan. ELP’s focus on real-world experience, mentorship, and leadership is a perfect match for where I want to grow next. My goal is to expand our company’s programs, both in Singapore and beyond. Through ELP, I’m building the business skills to match my artistic vision. I’ve also collaborated with major partners like Google, Panasonic, TEDx, Procter & Gamble, Certis Group, and Jewel Changi Airport. These experiences taught me how art can thrive in both creative and corporate spaces.
Connections in Vietnam
One of the most inspiring parts of my summer was an unexpected trip to Vietnam. I was invited to speak at the Future Women Leaders Program at the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City – International School of Business. I gave a talk about my company, my creative process, and my journey with ELP.
The students were incredible; engaged, curious, and full of big ideas. I also led Art-Tech Feature workshops, organized by Women in Tech Vietnam, Women Tech Entrepreneurs, and Sharework. These events sparked great conversations about how the arts can meet tech, and how cultural exchange can lead to innovation.
I’m proud of the relationships I built during this trip. Even though it was last-minute, the impact felt long-lasting. It reminded me that entrepreneurship isn’t just about building a company. It’s about building community.
Lessons Learned (so far)
This summer taught me a few key things I’d love to pass along to other creative entrepreneurs:
Be ready for the unexpected. Some of the best experiences come from last-minute opportunities.
Don’t wait to start. You’re never “fully ready”. I launched my company fresh out of school and learned along the way.
Collaboration is everything. Whether it’s students in Vietnam or partners at Google, strong relationships make your work better.
Art has power across cultures. Dance became a shared language in every country I visited.
You need both heart and hustle. Passion will get you started, but planning, business tools, and mentorship will keep you going.
What’s Next
In Southeast Asia, a region with an average age of 30, there’s growing interest in arts, wellness, and innovation. I’m building a stronger foundation for my company by refining our mission and learning to scale with impact. I’m committed to applying what I’ve learned from ELP to create jobs, opportunities, and programs that make a difference.
Final Thoughts
Entrepreneurship is not always a straight line. Sometimes it’s a dance; a little messy, often surprising, but always moving forward. My summer was full of performances, pitch meetings, workshops, travel, and growth. I’m still early in my career, but I’m excited about where this journey is headed. There’s so much potential at the intersection of art and business and I’m here for it.
View videos from Lauren’s Dance Company on her YouTube Channel