Daily Inspiration: Meet Krista Lively Stauffer

Today we’d like to introduce you to Krista Lively Stauffer

Hi Krista Lively, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I grew up in the arts. Mom was an opera singer- it’s what moved us to Central Ohio so she could finish her degree at The Ohio State University. As a youth, I joined the Columbus Children’s Choir and found my own love for music. It was through there, I was honored to be onstage with the professional Broadway tour of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”, That’s where I knew I wanted to perform for the rest of my life

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Oh…so many struggles along the way! It is not a linear path to being a performer or working in the arts. It’s long hours, many ups and downs, many egos to navigate, and often little pay. But I think surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who not only share your path but support the individual journey is what it takes.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have been performing on screen and stage for most of my life. Acting and musical theatre have been my focus as well as teaching, coaching, directing and hosting. I have been blessed to be a part of Columbus’ performing scene for a very long time, but I’m most proud of the students I’ve worked with along the way. Teaching has always been in my blood, and to see my actors get that “a-ha” moment always sends chills through me. I would be sad if I had to stop performing, but devastated to stop teaching.

Any big plans?
I don’t know what I’m doing in a month…the thing about this industry is to keep following it. Opportunities arise and you go toward that light. I am excited to be onstage with Opera Columbus in November with “The Threepenny Opera” and then to direct “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” with Gallery Players. Starting in January, the national tour of “What I Didn’t Say (The Parkinson’s Play)” continues its third year of performances in Orlando, Austin, Chicago and beyond.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @kristastauffer
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/krista.l.stauffer