Finding Home in Oz: Braelyn Jones Takes on the Role of Aunt Em

We talked with Braelyn Jones, who portrays Aunt Em in MTVArts’ upcoming production of The Wizard of Oz!

Click HERE to hear the conversation!

The 16-year-old Mount Vernon High School junior shares how she prepared for the role and describes Aunt Em as an important influence in Dorothy’s life. She also discusses the experience of working with the production’s double-cast Dorothys and the talented 40-member cast.

Braelyn also takes on the role of an Emerald City Guard and shares some of her favorite musical numbers, including “The Merry Old Land of Oz” and “Jitterbug.” She talks about the contrast between the simple Kansas farm setting and the colorful world of Oz, as well as the fun of working with Toto, who is portrayed by a real dog.

With previous MTVArts performances in The SpongeBob Musical, Beauty and the Beast Jr., and The Little Mermaid Jr., Braelyn hopes to continue acting and singing in the future. She encourages young people to give theater a try, offering advice to be confident, make bold choices, and step outside their comfort zone.

Click HERE to find out more about the show!