Unveiling Artistry: Conversations with Vegas Icons Shannan Calcutt and RuBen Permel
Dive into the captivating world of Las Vegas art and entertainment with the debut episode of "City of Dreams: Unveiled." Host Jeff Lund introduces two extraordinary talents, Shannan Calcutt, a performer and storyteller, and RuBen Permel, a visionary visual artist and costume designer. Join the conversation as they share their artistic journeys, delve into local successes, and provide a sneak peek into their creative horizons. From Shannan's fearless approach to clowning to RuBen's transformative costume designs, discover the vibrant layers that make Las Vegas the ultimate city of dreams. Buckle up, turn up the volume, and join the inspiring journey through the heart of creativity in this special episode.
Creators and Guests
Host
Jeff Lund
Jeff Lund is a seasoned professional with a multifaceted 20+ year career in the entertainment industry including iconic entities like Cirque du Soleil, Spiegelworld and Meow Wolf, where he has consistently demonstrated his expertise in fostering innovative ideas and driving significant business growth across the entertainment industry. With a keen eye for emerging market trends and a deep understanding of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, Jeff has effectively leveraged his skills to mentor and guide aspiring Entrepreneurs, Artists, and Creatives towards realizing their full potential. In his latest endeavor, Jeff has embraced the world of broadcasting as the host of KUNV 91.5 radio show, City of Dreams: Unveiled. This platform is a testament to his commitment to giving a voice to Creatives, Entrepreneurs, and Artists, allowing them to showcase their dreams and stories. Through this initiative, Jeff aims to inspire listeners by bringing to light the journeys, failures, challenges, and successes of today's visionaries, thereby fostering a community of like-minded individuals who are driven to make a positive difference in the world while creating more art.
Guest
RuBen Permel
As a kid, I never got the 64 color crayon box with the cool sharpener. Unknowingly, the box of 8 primary hues provided me with everything I needed to illustrate my life. I discovered by finding a complimentary color on the other side of the box, I was able to mix things up and create something special. I never colored outside of the lines but always thought outside of the box. So in the realm of "Show Business" this juxtaposition always leveraged my ability to maintain my own unique career. Reaching the pinnacle of Theatrical Costuming and Wardrobe at Cirque du Soleil provided me with the knowledge to thrive among extraordinary visionaries and epic commerce. For 16 years I have lead teams at 3 hospitality properties for MGM Resorts. Under the division of Entertainment, I have been able to contribute and create on 5 Cirque productions viewed by millions. I supported Artistically, and provided a work environment of productivity and inclusion. The corporate structure MGM Resorts and high standards of Cirque allowed me to flourish in the Business side of "Show". Life in the Arts is connective. My stage background is key when commanding meetings, giving lectures, presenting ideas, hosting events or conducting interviews. As an Artist I have tools to visually impact ones thoughts.They can be seen in many of my Marketing displays, Press Events, Stage Designs or awarding winning Paintings. I have stood alone and exposed my soul for millions who watched TV. The winning results showed that I can achieve success not only for myself but those I join. I pride myself in saying I have never held a "real" job, but the reality remains if you are doing what you are passionate about and destined to do, it's not a job. It's taking the 8 colors you earned and making your own masterpiece to share.
Guest
Shannan Calcutt
Shannan is sought after as a Comic Act Designer, Acting Coach, Director, Writer and Show Creator. Her projects range from the world’s biggest theatre stage featuring over 100 artists with a production budget of 12 million euros, to a late night clown soiree featuring 11 Cirque du Soleil artists with a budget of five thousand US dollars. She has collaborated with artists in internationally acclaimed companies Circus Oz, Legs on the Wall, Circus Monoxide, Circus WOW, Crazy Horse Paris, Spiegelworld, Blue Man Group, The Second City, Cirque du Soleil and Berlin's Friedrichstadt-Palast. In any collaboration, what Calcutt is renowned for is her individual and intimate approach, encouraging artists to push the boundaries of what’s acceptable and embedding a confidence that allows them to work at their greatest potential.