Today we’d like to introduce you to Cooper Clack.
Hi Cooper, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up immersed in physical activity—soccer, baseball, golf, and gymnastics were a big part of my childhood. My sister was a dancer, and I spent countless hours at her recitals and competitions, which unknowingly introduced me to the world of performance. At 14, my family moved to Memphis, Tennessee, and I had to rebuild my social circle from scratch. That’s when everything changed.
A friend encouraged me to audition for the spring musical, and I landed a featured role. That experience opened the door to a whole new passion: theatre. I quickly became involved in both school and community productions, and by 16, I was performing professionally at Playhouse on the Square in Memphis. From there, I knew I wanted to pursue musical theatre as a career.
I went on to earn my Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre from Oklahoma City University, where I honed my skills and developed a strong foundation in performance. Shortly after graduating in 2022, I joined the national tour of Jesus Christ Superstar, which was an incredible introduction to the professional theatre world. Over nine months, I toured across the U.S. and Canada, gaining invaluable experience on the road.
After the tour, I moved to New York City with two of my best friends, continuing to chase opportunities and build a life in the arts. In August 2024, I booked the national tour of A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, and I’ve been on the road ever since, sharing this powerful story with audiences across the country.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Touring has been one of the most incredible and challenging experiences of my life. It’s been full of unforgettable moments, personal growth, and artistic fulfillment—but it’s also tested me in ways I didn’t expect. Being on the road for a year is not for the faint of heart. The distance from close friends and family is tough, and there’s a unique kind of loneliness that comes with constantly being in motion.
Even the simple things—like doing laundry—become complicated. In a world that’s moved almost entirely to cards and Apple Pay, hunting down quarters to wash your clothes can feel like a full-time job. That’s just one example of how life on tour demands resourcefulness, resilience, and a sense of humor.
Self-care becomes non-negotiable. Without your usual support system around, you have to learn how to show up for yourself mentally and physically, every day. It takes a strong mix of discipline and flexibility to maintain your health while still leaving space for spontaneity and joy in new cities.
One of the biggest realizations I’ve had on tour is that this lifestyle—though exciting and often luxurious—is not forever. The catered meals, hotel points, and constant movement eventually come to an end, and it’s important to prepare for what comes next. Learning to manage my finances and build a sustainable future has been just as crucial as hitting my marks onstage.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a musical theatre performer—I sing, dance, act, and also tumble! With a background in acrobatics and high-energy movement, I specialize in contemporary and musical theatre dance, along with pop, rock, and music theatre-style vocals. I’m currently performing as part of The Noise in A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical on its national tour, bringing the show to stunning venues across the U.S. eight times a week.
When I’m not on stage, I create fun vlogs, silly skits, and behind-the-scenes content on social media, proudly sharing my life as a musical theatre lifestyle performer and queer artist. I’m most proud of my resilience, my hustle, and the confidence I’ve built in carving out a future for myself. I’m always dreaming bigger—chasing one dream after the next. I love being a hype man for my friends and family, and I’m passionate about creating art and magic in loving, uplifting communities.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I’ve been lucky to have some incredible mentors throughout my journey, each of whom has helped shape the artist and person I am today.
Kathy Thiele was one of the first major influences in my dance career. She saw a spark in me during my sophomore year of high school and helped me channel my raw passion into real technique, all while encouraging me to stay expressive and open. Though I started with tap, Kathy pushed me to explore other styles, broadening my versatility and deepening my understanding of movement. She choreographed many shows I performed in throughout the Memphis theatre community and was instrumental in guiding me through the college audition process. Her connections, encouragement, and belief in me opened doors I didn’t even know existed.
Lindsay Krosnes, former head of education at the Halloran Centre for Performing Arts in Memphis, also played a vital role. Through her work in partnership with the Orpheum, she created programs that connected young artists with professionals, providing access to tools, training, and inspiration. Her kindness, encouragement, and leadership have left a lasting impression—and she still checks in with me to this day with uplifting messages that remind me I have a community behind me.
Another pillar in my growth was Dr. Catherine McDaniel, my voice teacher at Oklahoma City University. She saw potential in me during my audition—even though I forgot the lyrics to my classical aria. With her support, I built a strong vocal foundation and discovered a confidence in my voice I never thought possible. I went on to perform a junior recital in four languages and an hour-long senior recital that explored multiple vocal styles—accomplishments I couldn’t have imagined before OCU. We still connect through voice lessons and check-ins, and her mentorship continues to guide me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cooperclack.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cooperclack/?hl=en
Image Credits
J’Kobe Photography
David Komisarchik (Threadability)
