Alumni Spotlight: Danny Hutchins

Musical theater alumnus Danny Hutchins (B.F.A. '16) coordinates a production and donates to the Make-A-Wish Foundation during his time at the Conservatory.

It’s no stretch to say that Daniel (Danny) Hutchins is a fan of Disney. When he saw the tour of Disney’s On the Record at the age of 10, he knew that theater was going to be part of his future.

As a junior at the Conseravtory, he had the unique opportunity to bring his childhood inspiration to life through the Conservatory's Entrepreneurial Grant Program. “I felt this show had an important story to tell—a story not only about believing in yourself, but also about what you can achieve when you set your mind to it,” explained Hutchins.

Because Hutchins wanted his production of On the Record to have a lasting impact on the community, he presented the project in honor of the Make-A-Wish Foundation, for which he raised over $800. In addition to the main performance, Hutchins also modified the production for performances in the community, including with the YMCA After-School Program, YMCA Family Program, and the Hurley School After School Program.

The project was underwritten by the Conservatory’s Entrepreneurial Grant Program. Hutchins said, “It was a valuable experience . . . to be in charge and heavily involved in all the things that go on behind the scenes. . . . It was a huge learning experience for me, and it was wonderful to be able to do it in the Conservatory’s safe and supportive environment.”

Disney's On the Record was produced through a special arrangement with Disney Theatrical Productions.