In a powerful and richly detailed conversation, Gary Fails, the founder of City Theatrical, joins host Jackie Morreale on the Wisdom for Wannabes podcast to explore his storied path in the live-entertainment lighting industry. From humble beginnings in a South Bronx garage to international success, Fails shares his insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, and the legacy he’s building as he transitions into retirement.
A Trailblazer’s Journey: From Garage Shop to Global Lighting Innovator
In this candid episode, Fails traces the origins of City Theatrical, recalling a time when he was working as a Broadway stage electrician and saw unmet needs among lighting designers. Rather than waiting for someone else to step in, he founded his company in 1986, which would become a vital part of the industry.
Over time, what started as a small operation evolved into a flourishing enterprise. Fails guided City Theatrical as it introduced groundbreaking products, such as wireless DMX, beam-control accessories, and more. Under his leadership, the company embraced a culture rooted in innovation, risk-taking, and collaborative design.
Wisdom & Culture: Building More Than a Business
Fails speaks deeply about the importance of company culture, not just as a byproduct of success, but as a strategic foundation for innovation. He credits much of the business growth to a mindset that values problem-solving and shared vision.
He reflects on the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and growth:
“We grew by 40% per year for five years in a row. We were officially designated as a gazelle.”
“We started to set our goals higher, for more complicated products, more useful products for more people. Started to swing the bat harder … and trying to grow faster and faster.”
“Business is thrilling but difficult. … You have to want to do it. It has to be a burning desire.”
These lessons, Fails explains, were reinforced through challenges, as well as through teamwork and trusting in the long-term vision.
Looking Forward: Legacy, Retirement, and Lifelong Learning
In retirement, Fails doesn’t simply reflect on the past — he also centers his thoughts on what comes next. In the episode, he talks about key learnings in entrepreneurship, his plans to continue experimenting in his workshop, and his hopes for the future of the lighting industry.
Even as he passes the torch, his passion for discovery remains: “Over time, a company faces lots of ups and downs … Every day is a new adventure.”
Key Themes & Takeaways
- Entrepreneurship in a technical field: Fails’ origin story underscores the power of hands-on innovation and designer-driven product development.
- Sustainable growth: His reflections on scaling a business with rapid growth and repeated reinvention to offer lessons for other business leaders.
- Culture as innovation: Fails emphasizes how collaboration and shared vision were integral to launching new products and staying ahead.
- Legacy & retirement: Even as he retires, Fails remains committed to passing on wisdom and experimenting with new ideas.
- Lifelong learning: His journey is a testament to staying curious, humble, and adaptive.
About Gary Fails & City Theatrical
Gary Fails is the founder of City Theatrical, a leading manufacturer of lighting accessories for the entertainment industry. Since 1986, City Theatrical has developed products like wireless DMX systems, LED and beam control accessories, and test tools, all while fostering a visionary company culture. Learn more about Gary Fails at City Theatrical at: www.citytheatrical.com/gary-fails
About the Podcast & Host
Wisdom for Wannabes is an interview series hosted by Jackie Morreale, who brings a deeply informed perspective to conversations about creativity, business, and personal growth. With years of experience working for City Theatrical, including producing content and moderating episodes of QolorTOPIX, City Theatrical’s podcast series, Jackie is uniquely positioned to host a conversation with Gary Fails.
Jackie has conducted hundreds of interviews with industry designers, technicians, and innovators. Her new Wisdom for Wannabes podcast seeks to uncover the “why” behind people’s life work: Why they do what they do, what they’ve learned, and the values that sustain them. Explore the podcast at: www.wisdomforwannabes.com
Jackie Morreale is also the author and illustrator of a new book series for children, Princess Tessa & Luc the Duke, inspiring family story time with positive messaging, which can be explored at www.princesstessa.com.
How to Listen?
This episode — “Gary Fails on Entrepreneurship in Show Business” — is available now on the Wisdom for Wannabes website, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and Audible. For more, visit: Https://www.wisdomforwannabes.com/gary-fails-entrepreneurship.html