Q & A WITH MITCHELL KENNE
Part of my Iowa Nice Q & A series, celebrating Iowans who have made their career touring in the live production industry.
Learn more about Mitchelle at boundlessprod.com
Mitchell Kenne grew up in Iowa, where he knew early on that he wanted to work in music in some capacity. During and after earning his degree from Iowa State University, he worked as an audio engineer and promoter rep both on campus, and for First Fleet Concerts in Des Moines.
In 2015, he teamed up with The Relay Group (née Relay Productions), where he began tour managing, production managing, and eventually tour directing for a wide range of national and international acts across all genres.
In 2023, he started Boundless Productions, focusing on Tour Direction while continuing to serve as Production Manager, Tour Director, and Tour Accountant for one of his primary clients, Rainbow Kitten Surprise. Mitchell sees Tour Direction not only as a service but also as an opportunity to mentor others and contribute to improving touring practices and a healthy touring culture.
In his spare time, Mitchell loves being at home with his wife and animals, working on home projects, photography, and sailing.
Follow Mitchell at the following:
@mitchellkenne
@boundless.prod
boundlessprod.com
Favorite concert or live show you’ve attended as a fan (not for work)?
Recently: Tyler Childers @ Bridgestone Arena, 2024
Historically: The 1975 @ Varsity Theater, 2013
Is there anything you try to do every off day?
I try to go out for walks to explore and shoot photos, but more often than not, I end up spending most of the time catching up on work.
One to three must have work-related tool(s)? (Computer, gear, tool, phone app, etc.)?
Not including Master Tour, MacBook Pro, Apple Mail, Microsoft Office (Excel) - Those should all be a given.
USB-C external monitor
MyRadar Pro
Google Drive!
Are there any standard industry practices that you’d like to see change?
I’d like to see the industry remain more open-minded to new approaches, even when they aren’t considered “standard practice” at the time. Touring is constantly evolving with new people and ideas, new workflows, new technologies, and we should be open to change.
I think back to when I first started taking on Tour Direction-type responsibilities early in my career; there were many in the industry who were openly opposed to that style of organization. Nowadays, especially post-COVID, I see so many more people holding these roles. It has become much more common across all levels of touring, not just the biggest tours.
Since you began working in this industry, are there any concepts or practices you’ve implemented that have positively impacted your work (reduced stress, saved time, etc.)?
I’ve kept email notifications turned off on my phone for years. I’m very active and organized with email, but the constant notifications used to stress me out and made me feel like I needed to answer them at all hours of the day.
I believe it’s healthy to set boundaries and to be aligned with your clients on them. It’s good to operate dedicated work hours so you feel like you don’t have to be working at all hours of the day when you’re at home from tour.
Where do you see the industry going in the next 5-8 years?
I think we’ll continue to see smaller acts carrying increasingly large productions. Some elements are becoming more affordable while expectations are getting higher with things like social media. Using AI-driven video content I believe could make video much more in reach financially to smaller acts, and there are more elaborate and interesting lighting fixtures that are becoming more affordable, as examples.
How much sleep do you actually get? And how do you manage sleep deprivation?
On tour I average about six hours a night. I hit the bunk as soon as trucks are packed and I am showered. I wake up about an hour before walk and chalk every morning. On off days I hope for long drives so I can sleep in later.
I do think some people are built better to manage sleep deprivation; but my recommendation is to just sleep as much as you can when you can, limit or don’t consume alcohol, drink plenty of water, and black coffee.
What improves your day at a show?
Space! Offices, dressing rooms, stage & dock space. It’s incredible how much a day can change just having the needed and extra space.
Our industry isn’t as glamorous as often perceived. What motivates you to work such long hours and be away from home for extended periods?
Always the end product. Seeing the band on stage and the fans having the time of their lives. Nothing feels better than watching the plan you helped build come together every day.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their career in the live production industry (perhaps something you wish someone would have told you when you were getting started)?
Don’t be intimidated by others in the industry; everyone was once where you are. And don’t be afraid to ask for advice, there are so many people out there that are happy to help and to learn from.
What's the most essential thing in your suitcase?
Never leave home without a plan for rain! Rain jacket, weatherproof shoes, extra shoes, and extra socks. I always pack my Blundstones & Xtratufs.