August 18, 2026
The Egyptian Theatre’s events would not be possible without the help of our many volunteers, but it takes a great event director and volunteer coordinator to see the day-to-day operations. Thankfully, Brandon Pugh has skillfully managed this role for the past ten years! To celebrate Brandon’s ten-year anniversary of working for the theatre, marketing intern AJ Evon asked about his experiences over the past decade.
AJ: How did you first get involved with the Egyptian?
Brandon: I first got involved with the Egyptian as an intern while I was in school at Northern Illinois University. I was studying Community Leadership & Civic Engagement (Non-Profit Management, essentially) and looking for hands-on experience, and the Egyptian immediately stood out to me. There was something special about the building, its history, and especially the people who worked here (Shoutout to Alex Nerad, Executive Director of the theatre, it would not be what it is today without him). I applied for an internship and quickly fell in love with the energy of the theatre and the opportunity to be part of it. Looking back, I obviously had no idea that an internship would eventually turn into a ten-year career! I never knew back then that my interview for my internship would turn out to be my final interview.
A: What brought you back to the theatre after finishing your degree?
B: Even after my internship ended, I just couldn’t stay away. There’s something really special about the Egyptian—it’s more than just a theatre. It’s a historic landmark, a community gathering place, and a space where people come together to experience something memorable.
When Alex reached out and the opportunity came up to return as a part-time House Manager, it felt like coming home. I missed the people, the shows, the energy, and the feeling that the work we were doing really mattered. I worked almost a year working 60 hour work weeks between retail and House Manager. That position eventually opened the door to my Event Services Director role, which I’ve now been fortunate enough to hold for ten years.
A: What is the best part of working for the theatre?
B: Without a doubt, it’s the people and the variety. I get to work with an incredible team, connect with artists, clients, vendors, and audiences, and be part of so many different kinds of events.
No two days are ever the same, and I love that. One day might involve a concert, another might be a private event or film screening, and the next could be a community gathering. Being able to help create those experiences while also being part of the ongoing story of such a historic theatre is incredibly rewarding.
A: Your job covers a wide range of responsibilities – Can you describe what an average work day looks like?
B: The funny thing is, there really isn’t an “average” day, which is probably one of the things I love most about the job!
My day usually starts with checking emails, reviewing the event calendar, and connecting with staff, clients, and vendors about upcoming events. From there, I could be working on event logistics, walking through the building to look at setup or maintenance needs, coordinating staffing schedules, or solving a last-minute curveball.
A big part of my job is thinking ahead—making sure all the little details are in place before an event begins so that when the doors open, everything feels seamless for our guests. And, of course, there’s always the unexpected. Being able to adapt and find a solution is a huge part of working in event services.
A: After working here for ten years, do you have any favorite memories or shows?
B: There are honestly too many to choose from. I’ve had the opportunity to be part of so many incredible concerts, films, special events, and community programs over the years.
Some of my favorite memories are seeing the theatre completely packed for a special show, working with incredible artists, and watching the audience experience the building for the first time. I also think some of my favorite moments have happened behind the scenes—the teamwork, the laughter, the occasional chaos, and those moments when everyone comes together and you realize, “We pulled it off.”
My personal, personal favorite event was truly a ‘full circle moment’ for me. I was a choir kid in high school, having been a part of 4 different choirs – we had the esteemed honor of singing many “The Manhattan Transfer” songs. To say I was giddy when I found out they were coming to theatre was understatement – for years, I had enjoyed their music, but for this particular event, I got to meet them, converse with them, witness the magic that is ‘Vocal Jazz’ and….got the finish my night by shuttling the group to their hotel! All my years of singing their music, following them on social media, and getting to meet them…was simply magical!
Being part of reopening and bringing events back after the challenges of the pandemic is another experience I’ll never forget. It really reinforced how important places like the Egyptian are to a community.
A: If you could have given yourself a piece of advice on day one, what would it be?
B: Don’t be afraid to ask questions, take initiative, and trust yourself.
You’re going to learn something new every day, and it’s okay if you don’t know everything right away. I’d also tell myself to build relationships and appreciate the people around you. The theatre industry is incredibly collaborative, and the people you work alongside become such an important part of the experience.
Most importantly, stay flexible and never lose sight of why you’re here. Ten years later, I’m still learning, still finding new challenges, and still finding reasons to love this place. That’s something I’m incredibly grateful for.
