Leading Beyond the Stage: Rachel Moore on Leadership and Transforming Communities
Leading Beyond the Stage: Rachel Moore on Leadership and Transforming Communities  
Podcast: Expressions of Leadership
Published On: Tue Apr 28 2026
Description: In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, Michele Kawamoto Perry speaks with Rachel S. Moore, President and CEO of The Music Center of Los Angeles—one of the largest performing arts centers in the United States. Rachel’s leadership journey began on stage as a professional ballet dancer with American Ballet Theatre before a pivotal turning point set her on a new path into executive leadership. Today, she leads an organization of more than 1,400 employees with a bold belief: that the arts are not a luxury, but a public service that can strengthen communities and improve lives. In this conversation, Rachel shares insights on leading with humility, treating people with dignity, and recognizing when challenges are rooted in systems, not individuals. She reflects on building inclusive institutions, investing in people and culture, and creating spaces where communities can truly thrive. Learn more about Rachel Moore and the Music Center, L.A.'s Performing Arts Center at https://www.musiccenter.org/ Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram @ExpressionsOfLeadership. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.