WNZR’s Eric Brown talks with Brooklyn McDonald, who plays both Mrs. Smith—who “cried wolf”—and a reporter in The True Story of the Three Little Pigs, the latest production from the Orange Barrel Production Company.
Brooklyn is a 14-year-old homeschool student and says the two roles are completely different from one another. She explains that the reporter is much closer to her real personality, while Mrs. Smith is far more dramatic and over-the-top, complete with a hippie-style accent and personality.
One of Brooklyn’s favorite parts of the show is the courtroom scene, where the audience gets involved and helps decide whether the Wolf is innocent or guilty. She says those moments are especially fun because the cast gets to feed off the crowd’s energy while bringing plenty of humor to the stage.
Brooklyn has previously appeared in productions including Charlotte’s Web, Honk Jr., Anne of Green Gables, and A Little Princess. While she hopes to continue acting, she says theater is something she currently enjoys doing for fun.
She says one of the best parts of this production has been the friendships formed during rehearsals and all the fun moments shared with the cast. Brooklyn also enjoys the contrast between her two costumes—from a professional reporter look to colorful hippie-style clothing and accessories for Mrs. Smith.
Brooklyn encourages kids who might feel nervous about theater to still give it a try, saying it becomes a lot of fun once you get involved. She says audiences can expect a funny, interactive show that the whole family can enjoy.
Performances of the True Story of the 3 Little Pigs will take place: May 14th, 15th, 21st, and 22nd at 7 p.m. at the Crossroads Theater inside the Mount Vernon Developmental Center Administration Building.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. General admission tickets are $10
Click HERE to find out more about Orange Barrel Production Company!
Gabrielle has been involved with theater through MTVArts since 2016 and says auditioning for this show was an easy decision because she has always loved the story of To Kill a Mockingbird. In this production, she takes on the role of Mayella Ewell, a character she describes as emotional, isolated, and deeply shaped by fear and poverty.
To prepare for the role, Gabrielle says she’s spent time focusing on Mayella’s body language, emotions, and motivations throughout the story. She says one of the most powerful moments in the show is Atticus Finch’s closing speech to the jury, which continues to stand out to her during rehearsals.
Outside of this production, Gabrielle has recently appeared in shows including 9 to 5, The Little Mermaid Jr., and MTVArts’ Night of One Acts. She says theater has become an important creative outlet and something she genuinely loves, whether it’s acting, singing, or dancing.
Gabrielle also encourages others to give theater a try, saying there’s a place for everyone, whether on stage or working behind the scenes. She believes audiences will connect with To Kill a Mockingbird because its themes of empathy, justice, and courage still resonate today.
Performances of To Kill a Mockingbird will take place at the Woodward Opera House on Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee on May 10th at 2:00 p.m.
Steve got involved in theater after retiring from a teaching career at the Knox County Career Center. He shares how stepping into theater opened a whole new world and gave him an appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that makes each production possible.
Steve talks about the powerful, true-to-life story of this show. He shares that he wanted to be part of a production that tells such an important story.
Steve shares about his preparation for this role and the relationships he has built with the cast. He encourages the community to come out and see the show. Steve calls this show a powerful and emotional story that reflects important truths and leaves audiences thinking long after the performance ends.
Performances of To Kill a Mockingbird will take place at the Woodward Opera House on Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee on May 10th at 2:00 p.m.
Click HERE for more information or to buy tickets!
Ian brings nearly 40 years of theater experience, both on stage and behind the scenes, and says this role gave him the opportunity to step outside his usual comedic characters and take on something much darker. He describes Bob Ewell as the story’s main antagonist—a man driven by attention and influence, no matter the cost.
To prepare, Ian focuses on understanding the character’s motivations and letting the script guide his performance. He says he enjoys how the character is written and hopes audiences clearly see that personality come to life on stage.
Ian has appeared in productions like A Few Good Men, Shrek, and Mary Poppins, and says what keeps him coming back is the audience reaction—whether it’s laughter, surprise, or strong emotional responses.
He also highlights working alongside the cast, especially Jeff Scott as Atticus Finch, saying their courtroom scenes feel like a true clash between good and evil.
Ian says audiences can expect a faithful and powerful retelling of To Kill a Mockingbird, tackling themes of justice, family, and moral responsibility. He encourages others to get involved in theater, whether on stage or behind the scenes, and says seeing a live performance—especially with familiar faces—offers a unique experience.
Performances of To Kill a Mockingbird will take place at the Woodward Opera House on Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee on May 10th at 2:00 p.m.
MVNU Theatre Brings “Big Fish” to Life: Cast Shares Stories Behind the Magic
Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s spring musical Big Fish is set to take the stage March 26–29 at the R.R. Hodges Chapel Auditorium, promising an unforgettable journey filled with imagination, humor, and heart. As the cast prepares for opening night, several student performers shared their experiences bringing this larger-than-life story to reality.
Zane Menzie: Bringing Stories to Life On and Off Stage
Senior Zane Menzie, from Marion, Ohio, plays Young Edward while also serving as the show’s director—balancing two major roles in the production. With a lifelong connection to theatre through his grandmother, a former executive director at a local theatre, Menzie has been immersed in the arts from a young age.
“Edward is the personification of these wild, hyperbolic stories,” Menzie explained. “He’s constantly creating these larger-than-life tales—he’s kind of crazy, but that’s what makes him so fun.”
As director, Menzie has spent months organizing rehearsals, giving notes, and shaping the overall vision of the show. Despite the workload, his favorite moments have come from late nights spent rehearsing with friends.
His favorite song, “Time Stops,” highlights a pivotal moment when Edward realizes he has found the woman he will marry. Menzie encourages students to get involved in theatre without hesitation: “Just give it a shot, do your best, and have fun.”
Tyler Maddux: Exploring Logic and Emotion Through Will
Senior worship arts major Tyler Maddux, from New Philadelphia, Ohio, portrays Will, Edward’s son. With roots in theatre dating back to his childhood in Arkansas—where his family managed a dinner theatre—Maddux brings both personal and professional passion to the stage.
“Will is very logical, and I had to learn how to portray that mindset,” he said. “But what I love most is how much he grows throughout the story.”
Maddux’s favorite song, “Stranger,” captures a turning point for his character as he processes becoming a father himself. Having performed in 18 productions, he hopes to continue theatre in the future, even as he steps into a new role as a worship pastor in Beavercreek, Ohio.
He emphasizes that theatre isn’t just for performers: “There are so many ways to get involved—crew, tech, set building. Just do it.”
Josiah Holloway: A Milestone Performance as Edward
For senior nursing major Josiah Holloway, Big Fish marks his 40th production—a milestone in a journey that began in fifth grade.
Holloway plays Old Edward, portraying both the 30- and 55-year-old versions of the character. “Edward is a father trying to show his son that there’s more to life,” he said. “In a lot of ways, he reminds me of my own dad.”
His favorite number, “How It Ends,” closes the show with emotional depth. Halloway hopes it resonates with audiences as strongly as it does with him.
Reflecting on his theatre experience, he highlights the friendships and humor shared backstage, including playful competitions among cast members. His advice: “Even if you’re busy, it’s worth making time for theatre.”
Kate Carter: Stepping Into Two Versions of Jenny Hill
Sophomore worship arts major Kate Carter, from Pickerington, Ohio, plays Jenny Hill—both as a young girl and later in life.
“I love getting to show both sides of her character,” Carter said. “It’s a fun challenge, especially with costume changes that make me look completely different.”
Her favorite song, “Be the Hero,” features energetic choreography she especially enjoys performing. Carter values the unique experiences theatre offers, from acting to set-building, and encourages others to experience it for themselves.
Grace Maddux: A Story of Family On and Off Stage
Junior social work major Grace Maddux plays Sandra, Edward’s wife and a central figure in the story’s emotional core. Inspired by her parents’ love of theatre, she has embraced the role’s warmth and maternal qualities.
“Sandra is very nurturing, and that feels natural to me,” she said, noting she has also worked to perfect a Southern accent for the role.
Her favorite song, “I Don’t Need a Roof,” reflects the show’s themes of love and devotion. This production is especially meaningful, as it marks her final show performing alongside her brother, Tyler.
“This show is about family, fatherhood, and redemption,” she said. “It’s a beautiful story that people should come experience.”
Don’t Miss the Show
Big Fish will be performed March 26–29 at 7 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 3 p.m., in Thorne Hall at R.R. Hodges Chapel & Auditorium.
After months of preparation, the cast is eager to share a story filled with adventure, laughter, and heartfelt moments. As Menzie put it, “We’ve spent so long bringing this story to life—it’s something really special.”
Madeline Grace Banta from Orange Barrel Productions is acting in The Little Princess, and she plays Sara Crewe.
She tells us all about her acting history and she gives us the scoop on her role. Madeline highlights the production as well by telling us about the story and her favorite moments.
He tells our Marcy Rinehart how he got into theater starting in 1999. He has also been in 50 productions including Orange Barrel starting in 2007 as well as other MTV Arts productions including Beauty and the Beast.
Tony explains how he has been preparing for both roles including using some of his real-life experiences into the characters.
He says that he likes both characters because they both want to help Sara.
He also explains what he will be wearing in the production as both characters.
He adds that both characters are portrayed a little differently than other similar productions.
He also explains how vital wardrobe can be to not only the audience but the actor or actress who need to get into character.
Tony gives some insight into the back story of the play. He says that Sara was a little princess growing up then faces some adversity and drops to a lower level of society.
Tony says that it has been interesting seeing the different castes that were a part of society at the time the play is set.
He says that his favorite memory in this show (and most shows) that the cast effectively becomes a family. He says it has been a treat to see the young cast members grow personally.
He says people should come see the Little Princess because at its core it is a story about making the most out of a bad situation with a positive attitude.
Click HERE for information and to buy tickets for the performances!
MVNU student Zane Menzie is the director of the production of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The show is taking place this weekend at the Thorne Performance Hall at MVNU.
Zane shares a little about his acting history, the show, and what it looks to be the director!
For more information about MVNU theatre click HERE.
Orange Barrel’s Production of The Little Princess is coming soon!
We got to talk with a cast member, Glenn Hissong. Glenn tells us about his acting history, how he has been preparing for this show, and the story of The Little Princess! He also shares some of his favorite parts of the production.
The show opens up Friday, November 14th!
For more information on the production click HERE!
Orange Barrel’s Production of The Little Princess is coming soon! And we got to talk with a cast member, Rachel Steele. Rachel tells us how she has been preparing and she details what her costume will look like. She also lets us know about the plot of the play and some of her favorite parts.
Rise and Shine 