From Broadway to Camden: How a Harvard Graduate is Reimagining Her Hometown’s Creative Future
Vedra Chandler unexpectedly returned to Camden, New Jersey, to alter her town through art, culture, and connection after years on Broadway and with Cirque du Soleil.
Chandler, 45, who wowed audiences across in “Hairspray,” says she returned to Camden for a cause. Having been to Harvard and Broadway, she wanted to use her accomplishments to promote change where it was needed. Her childhood city was that place.
Chandler values Camden, a city with a history of poverty and social issues. Her childhood there affected her perspective of community, perseverance, and identity. She attended schools outside Camden because her parents wanted to give her more chances. Even then, she observed the subtle divide—people hesitant to enter her neighborhood due to its ZIP code. She thinks such recollections inspire her efforts now.
Chandler worked in logistics after graduating from Harvard University with a government degree, far from her creative dream. However, her love of music and theater took her to New York City, where she appeared in big plays. She thrilled audiences nationwide for years on tour. She never forgot her roots.
After years of performing, Chandler returned home in 2015. She wanted to help revitalize Camden and give inhabitants opportunities. She said, “I want to be part of Camden’s renaissance,” and meant it.
Chandler and artist Craig Storrod created Studio 553 in 2022 to plan events, perform music, and work with communities. The company represents Camden’s expanding creative environment, where local talent can shine and citizens can reconnect via shared experiences.
Chandler has organized street fairs and art displays to bring people together through Studio 553, working with nonprofits and local organizations. In conjunction with the Heart of Camden, hundreds of residents enjoyed food, music, and local art during a recent event. Chandler sees these instances as little steps toward communal pride, not just entertainment.
Her coworkers and friends call her a bridge-builder who effortlessly links individuals from various backgrounds. Storrod said Vedra’s tale is remarkable because she returned. She could have gone anywhere, but Camden was worth investing in.”
This is shared by others. Chandler is a “connector,” according to Rutgers-Camden senior vice chancellor Nyeema Watson, who unifies communities and stimulates new perspectives on Camden. Watson thinks her art shows what talent and intention can do.
Chandler now defines success as changing the culture of her hometown. She thinks Camden can foster creativity, innovation, and community. She often says, “We need to make it cool.” With her passion, leadership, and vision, she’s proving that sometimes the grandest stages are just where you started.
Sources
Information based on reports from NJ.com and local interviews.
