In the fast-paced world of entertainment, few individuals have the vision and determination to break barriers while uplifting others. Travis Stancil is one of those rare leaders. As the founder and CEO of Stance Productions, he has transformed his passion for the performing arts into a thriving business that provides opportunities for thousands of artists. But his path to success was anything but conventional.
From Humble Beginnings to an Industry Leader
Travis’s journey started in a small town in western North Carolina, where the performing arts weren’t always embraced. Born into a family deeply rooted in dance and musical theater, he found his love for movement at an early age. Yet, growing up in a conservative community, his artistic passion made him an outsider.
“I was the kid who didn’t fit in,” Travis recalls. “But when I stepped into a dance studio, I felt at home.”
Despite challenges, including severe dyslexia and a difficult school experience, he discovered early on that his learning differences did not define his potential. Thanks to the support of a dedicated educator, Travis turned his struggles into strengths, proving that limitations are often just perspectives waiting to be changed.
A Career Built on Passion and Resilience
As a teenager, Travis faced an even bigger challenge—his family lost everything, forcing them to separate. While many would have let adversity break them, he saw it as motivation. Determined to carve out his own future, he embraced the world of professional dance and entertainment.
An unexpected mentor played a key role in his journey. A dance studio owner in Florida recognized his potential and not only gave him a job but also helped him relocate. This experience taught him a valuable lesson: success is not just about talent, but also about perseverance, mentorship, and business acumen.
Over the next few years, Travis honed his craft, working as a performer, choreographer, and director. But he wanted more than just personal success—he wanted to create something that could help other artists thrive.
The Birth of Stance Productions
With a clear vision in mind, Travis founded Stance Productions, a company dedicated to producing world-class performances while providing sustainable careers for performers. What sets his company apart is its commitment to empowering artists, not just hiring them.
“My mission has always been to teach performers how to be successful beyond the stage,” he explains. “At Stance Productions, we don’t just create shows—we build careers.”
Since its launch, Stance Productions has employed over 2,500 artists, giving them a platform to showcase their talents while learning essential business skills. Many of his former team members have gone on to start their own studios, work with major artists, and build independent creative careers.
Overcoming Challenges and Breaking Barriers
The road to success wasn’t easy. When Travis set out to produce his first touring show, he faced over 1,000 rejections. But giving up was never an option.
“I had to learn how to handle ‘no’ without letting it define my future,” he says. “Every rejection was just a step closer to the right opportunity.”
Eventually, his persistence paid off. At just 21 years old, he secured the funding to launch his first production tour, marking a turning point in his career.
A Vision for the Future
Today, Stance Productions continues to push creative boundaries, producing innovative shows and opening doors for aspiring performers. But for Travis, success isn’t just about building a business—it’s about making a lasting impact.
As he looks to the future, his focus remains on creating opportunities, inspiring others, and redefining what’s possible in the entertainment industry. His advice to young artists and entrepreneurs is simple:
“You have to believe in yourself before anyone else does. And when things get tough, remember—success doesn’t come from never falling. It comes from getting back up every time you do.”
With his relentless drive and commitment to uplifting others, Travis Stancil is proving that the best stories aren’t just told on stage—they’re lived.
