By Suzy Alstrin
What started as a fun hobby became a successful business for Reinhardt University alumnus Joshua Lee Robinson (RU – 2015). Today, he combines his bachelor’s degree in theatre with a knack for entrepreneurism to create Lights Up! Entertainment. Employing eighteen entertainers at his company, Robinson provides a unique twist to trivia, music bingo, and karaoke around metro Atlanta.
Following graduation, Robinson performed in regional theatre and taught at an elementary school. In 2017, he began hosting trivia at the original Reformation Brewery in Woodstock, entertaining the patrons once a month. The crowds and the bookings grew, primarily through word of mouth. He said to himself, “I think I’m onto something here,” and obtained a business license in 2020. Currently, Lights Up! Entertainment hosts about thirty-five events every week at public establishments and private parties.
Robinson remained afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic by hosting virtually on Facebook, often attracting hundreds of participants. He recalls a participant who attended an in-person event and thanked him for getting him through a tough time. “We go out of our way to actually entertain you along the way. It’s more of a spectacle than your general average trivia night, or music bingo, or karaoke night,” Robinson explained.
Some of Robinson’s faithful fans also have ties to Reinhardt. Professors, alumni, and others in the community attend his events regularly. “Josh is fantastic and funny and a great singer,” says Professor Elizabeth Smith who plays on a trivia team, “I did not have him in class, but I always loved seeing him in the variety of musicals. He is a wonderful person and an amazing businessman to have built his company from the ground up.”
While attending Reinhardt, served as a Resident Assistant, and on student government and student activities. He says his experience at Reinhardt helped him feel comfortable on a microphone and in front of a large amount of people. His biggest regret was not taking more business classes. Nonetheless, his business continues to grow, and he enjoys performing in public nightly.
L to R: Asst. Softball Coach Brody Blalock (RU – 2023), Macain Pharr (RU – 2025), Math Professor Elizabeth Smith, Joshua Robinson (RU – 2015), Stephanie Marchant (RU – 1987 & 2001), Psychology Professor Christopher Robinson
