WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Josh Callahan Foley, who plays Alexander T. Wolf in Orange Barrel Production Company’s production of The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs.
Josh says theater has been part of his life for years through both school and community productions in Mount Vernon. Along with his stage experience, he also studied film in college and now works professionally as a photographer and videographer while continuing to stay active in local theater.
Taking on the role of the Wolf has come with some unique challenges. Josh says one of the biggest adjustments has been the amount of narration throughout the show, since much of the production involves directly telling the story to the audience. To help shape the character, he says he approached the Wolf as a charming southern gentleman who audiences can connect with — even while hearing “his side” of the famous story.
Josh says storytelling is what continues to fuel his passion for both theater and film. He believes live theater creates a special experience because audiences get to watch real people tell stories right in front of them in a way that feels personal and immediate.
He also encourages others to get involved in theater, saying every production comes with awkward moments and challenges, but the friendships, teamwork, and sense of community make it worthwhile.
Josh says audiences should come see The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs because it offers a funny and creative twist on the classic fairy tale while showcasing performers of all ages sharing their talents on stage.
Performances will take place: Thursday, May 21st, and Friday May 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 dollars.
Click HERE to learn more about the Orange Barrel Production Company!
Orange Barrel Production Company’s production of The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs is bringing together familiar fairy tale characters, plenty of laughs, and for one cast member, a full-circle family moment.
WNZR’s Eric Brown talks with Maggie Lauth, who plays Sizzle Bacon in Orange Barrel Production Company’s production of The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs.
Maggie describes Sizzle Bacon as the only surviving pig sibling who takes Alexander T. Wolf to court. She says the character is sassy, fashionable, and more focused on herself than anyone else. Maggie also says she enjoys playing characters with attitude and personality, which made the role especially fun for her. She says one of her favorite parts of the production is the courtroom scene because of the humor, the larger role her character has in the scene, and the chance to interact more with the cast.
Eric continues with Maggie Lauth, who says this is her first major stage production with Orange Barrel Production Company’s production of The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs.
Maggie says one of her favorite rehearsal memories involved a funny courtroom scene adjustment from director Michelle Banko that had the cast laughing during practice. She also says it has been fun being involved in the production alongside her cousin, who plays Goldilocks.
She encourages other kids to give theater a try, saying Orange Barrel Productions is a great place to start because rehearsals are manageable and the experience is both fun and rewarding.
Maggie also says the community should come out and support the production because the cast has worked hard to create a fun experience for audiences of all ages.
Performances will take place: May 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 dollars. For more information, visit Ohio Drama-dot-com or call 740-504-8847.
Click HERE to learn more about Orange Barrel Production Company!
WNZR’s Eric Brown talks with Joy Kanagy who plays the part of Judge Judy in the True Story of the 3 Little Pigs which is the latest installment of the Orange Barrel Production Company.
Joy, a 14-year-old eighth grader at Inspirations Academy, says her character helps decide the outcome of the Wolf’s case based on how the jury votes during the courtroom scenes. Joy says she has been preparing for the role by practicing her lines and working on her delivery. While she enjoys the whole character, she admits her favorite part is getting to bang the judge’s gavel during the show. She also says the courtroom scene is one of her favorite moments in the production.
Joy talks about playing the part of Judge Judy in the True Story of the 3 Little Pigs which is the latest installment of the Orange Barrel Production Company.
Joy has previously appeared in Orange Barrel Production Company’s A Little Princess along with several church productions. While she currently sees acting as more of a hobby, she says theater has been a lot of fun and a great experience.
Joy says one of her favorite parts of being involved with this cast has been getting to know the other actors and spending time together during rehearsals. She also encourages other kids to give theater a try, even if it feels a little scary at first.
Joy says the community should come out and support The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs because the cast has worked hard and the show is funny and family friendly.
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 dollars. For more information, visit Ohio Drama-dot-com or call 740-504-8847.
Click HERE to learn more about Orange Barrel Production Company!
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.”
Zane is from Marion, Ohio, and transferred to Mount Vernon Nazarene University after realizing his previous school in Columbus wasn’t the right fit. After visiting campus, he felt MVNU was the place for him and decided to make the move.
Zane joined WNZR through one of his classes and decided to give radio a try—and now you can hear him on the air Thursdays from 1–3pm. Outside the studio, he stays busy as the president of the Theatre Club, something he’s very passionate about. He even had the opportunity to direct his own play, which gave him the chance to see theatre from the other side of the curtain. Zane hopes to pursue a master’s degree in directing and producing, with dreams of becoming a professor or working with smaller theatre productions in the future.
This spring he’s also involved with the theatre production of Big Fish: The Musical, happening March 26–29. The show tells the story of a larger-than-life storyteller and the relationship between a father and son as they discover the truth behind the tall tales. You can search for MVNU Theatre tickets online if you’d like to attend.
When he’s not on the air or working with theatre, Zane enjoys making homemade sushi, playing video games on the weekends, and spending time with family and friends. His favorite song right now is “Hard Fought Hallelujah.”
One interesting fact about Zane is that he was born with nerve damage in one ear and can only hear about 25% from it. He also shared how God has been helping him grow in his faith—learning to make it his own rather than simply following the faith of his family.
Be sure to tune in and hear Zane on WNZR Thursdays from 1–3pm!
The holiday season is here! Don’t miss your chance to see A Christmas Carol at the Knox Memorial. Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. Join the Knox Memorial with the Mount Vernon Arts Consortium and Habitat for Humanity Knox County for this beloved family classic live on stage!
WNZR was honored to chat with several members of the team:
Ian Ernsberger, Director
Aaron Moreland, Ebeneezer Scrooge
Jillian Snow, Ghost of Christmas Past
Click HERE to enjoy the conversation or click on the link below. Get your tickets to see this Christmas Classic this weekend!
A Christmas Carol is presented by the Knox Memorial. Produced by Mount Vernon Arts Consortium. Shows: November 29th @ 7:30 P.M. November 30th @ 7:30 P.M. December 1st @ 1:00 P.M.
VENUE: Knox Memorial Theater (112 E. High St, Mount Vernon, OH 43050)
MTVarts presents the musical “Oliver” at the Knox Memorial Theater. The award-winning musical adaptation of the classic Dickens novel springs to life with some of the most memorable characters and songs ever to grace the stage.
The Morning Thing featured a conversation with Director, Bruce Jacklin and Jillian Snow, who plays the character of Oliver. We also shared the cast singing the popular song “Consider Yourself” from the musical.
Click HERE to enjoy the conversations and the song!
The award-winning musical adaptation of the classic Dickens novel springs to life with some of the most memorable characters and songs ever to grace the stage. Consider yourself at home with Lionel Bart’s classic musical based on the Charles Dickens novel, Oliver Twist. The Tony and Olivier Award-winning show is one of the few musicals to win an Academy Award for Best Picture and is widely hailed as a true theatrical masterpiece by actors and audience members alike. The streets of Victorian England come to life as Oliver, a malnourished orphan in a workhouse, becomes the neglected apprentice of an undertaker. Oliver escapes to London and finds acceptance amongst a group of petty thieves and pickpockets led by the elderly Fagin. When Oliver is captured for a theft that he did not commit, the benevolent victim, Mr. Brownlow takes him in. Fearing the safety of his hideout, Fagin employs the sinister Bill Sikes and the sympathetic Nancy to kidnap him back, threatening Oliver’s chances of discovering the true love of a family.
MTVarts presents Frozen Kids this weekend in the Memorial Theater at the Knox Memorial. WNZR has been honored to feature some cast members of the production all this week on The Morning Thing.
Listen in as these amazing young actors describe their characters, favorite songs, and costumes. They also share with us their favorite memories of this experience on stage.
Click HERE to hear from these cast members. Rosie Bernicken – Ensemble/Unicorn (8 years old, 3rd grade at Centerburg Elementary) Jenna Jurkowitz – Olaf (11 years old, 6th grade at Mount Vernon Middle School) Reese Ferenbaugh – Elsa (12 years old, 7th grade at East Knox) Zell Pastor, Storyteller (11 years old, 6th grade at Mount Vernon Middle School) Gavin Andrews (13 years old, 8th grade at Mount Vernon Middle School) plays Duke of Weselton in Frozen Junior and William Andrews (11 years old, 6th grade at Mount Vernon Middle School) plays Prince Hans in Frozen Kids Avery Sears – Storyteller (11 years old, 6th grade at Mount Vernon Middle School) Stemen Family – Will (15 years old, 10th grade at Mount Vernon High School) plays Kristoff in Frozen Junior; Rosie (11 years old, 6th grade at Mount Vernon Middle School) plays Anna in Frozen Kids and Ben (almost 13 years old, 7th grade at Mount Vernon Middle School) plays The King in Frozen Kids
Do you want to build a snowman? Join Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Sven, and all of your favorite characters as they embark on an epic, ice-filled journey of self-discovery, camaraderie, and the real meaning of true love.
Today on the Morning Thing, we talked with Buck Thompson. He is playing Uncle Fester in the MTVArts upcoming production of The Addams Family. Buck talks about the role and having to shave his head! To hear the full conversation, click HERE! For more information on the production, click HERE!
Rise and Shine 