Gary Lloyd’s Journey with Bronia Buchanan’s BBA Management: From West End Success to Global Fame

Gary Lloyd is a celebrated name in the UK theatre industry, renowned for his dynamic choreography and direction in some of the West End’s most iconic shows. Known for merging commercial and theatrical dance, Gary’s career has seen him work with global music stars and bring to life award-winning productions. His journey with Bronia Buchanan and her agency, BBA Management, has been an essential part of his success, helping him navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry and achieve his artistic vision on a global scale.

A Start in Ballroom and Latin Dance

Gary Lloyd began his career in the world of ballroom and Latin dance, training from a young age. His passion and dedication led him to complete all of his dance exams, a journey that equipped him with invaluable skills he would later use in directing and choreography. “Ballroom and Latin dance were fundamental to my approach in theatre,” Gary explains. “The precision, timing, and storytelling I learned from those styles never left me.”

This early training opened doors for him to perform in productions like Cats, where he first crossed paths with Bronia Buchanan. Inspired by Bronia’s work ethic and commitment to her clients, Gary joined BBA Management, a partnership that has become a cornerstone of his career.

Collaborating with Bronia Buchanan’s BBA Management

Gary’s relationship with Bronia Buchanan and her team at BBA Management has been a defining aspect of his career. From the outset, Bronia recognized Gary’s talent and ambition, working tirelessly to secure opportunities that matched his creative goals. “It’s not just about booking jobs,” Gary says. “It’s about finding roles that allow me to push boundaries and innovate.”

Under Bronia’s guidance, Gary has taken on projects that allow him to showcase his unique blend of commercial and theatrical choreography, including Heathers and Thriller Live. His work on Thriller Live, a tribute to Michael Jackson’s iconic career, has received acclaim worldwide, even earning Gary a personal connection with the Jackson family.

Thriller Live: A Career-Defining Show

One of Gary’s most notable achievements with BBA Management is his role as the choreographer for Thriller Live. The show, which ran for over a decade in the West End, celebrated the life and legacy of Michael Jackson. Gary was deeply invested in the project, which allowed him to bring his commercial dance background to the forefront. “Working on Thriller Live was a dream come true,” he recalls. “I got to explore new styles and take the audience on a journey through Michael’s music.”

Gary’s choreography for Thriller Live received praise from audiences and critics alike, propelling him to new heights in his career. The show’s success also allowed him to publish a book, My Life With Michael: 10 Years of Thriller Live, which details his experience working with Michael Jackson’s music and the impact it had on his artistic development.

Heathers: A Collaboration with Theatre Legends

Following the success of Thriller Live, Gary took on another ambitious project with Heathers: The Musical. As both associate director and choreographer, Gary collaborated with director Andy Fickman and producer Bill Kenwright to bring the cult-classic story to the stage. The project was a collaborative effort, with each department working together to create a production that stayed true to the spirit of the original while adding a unique theatrical flair.

Heathers has become a fan favourite, with audiences across the UK drawn to its darkly comedic take on high school life. Gary credits the project’s success to the creative freedom he had, thanks to the support of Bronia Buchanan and the BBA Management team, who ensured he had the resources to bring his vision to life.

Supporting Future Talent with ArtsEd

As part of his commitment to the arts, Gary recently directed Sweet Charity at ArtsEd, one of the UK’s top drama schools. This production allowed Gary to work with emerging talent, preparing them for careers in musical theatre. “It’s inspiring to work with young performers who are passionate about theatre,” Gary says. “My goal is to give them the tools they need to succeed in an industry that’s always evolving.”

For Gary, directing Sweet Charity was a career highlight. The production not only showcased the talent of the ArtsEd students but also allowed Gary to pass on the lessons he’s learned over the years — lessons gained from his own experiences and his collaboration with Bronia Buchanan and her agency.

What’s Next for Gary Lloyd?

Gary’s future is filled with exciting projects that continue to push the boundaries of theatre and dance. Among these is Rehab: The Musical, a story based on songwriter Grant Black’s personal experience in rehab, which will open in London in early 2024. Described as a mix of pop and musical theatre, Rehab promises to be a heartfelt and entertaining production that addresses the importance of mental health.

In addition, Gary is set to bring Cruel Intentions to the stage, another ’90s-inspired musical that combines a dark storyline with a soundtrack filled with nostalgic hits. Gary anticipates that the show will attract fans of Heathers and Thriller Live, blending elements of both to create a unique experience for UK audiences.

With each new project, Gary’s partnership with BBA Management continues to thrive. He credits Bronia Buchanan for her steadfast support and unwavering belief in his talent, qualities that have enabled him to take on ambitious projects and reach new audiences. Through Bronia’s guidance, Gary is set to continue his success in the UK and beyond, bringing his innovative vision to theatres around the world.