In this episode of Behind the Curtain at RMT, host Roy Lightner sits down with the brilliant Sara Brians, the director and choreographer bringing Red Mountain Theatre's production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid to life.

Tune in as Sara shares her incredible journey from Northern California to New York City. She discusses starting dance at age four and booking her first professional job as a Radio City Rockette at just 18 years old. Listeners will be amazed to hear how she rapidly booked her first Broadway show in the revival of 42nd Street, stepping on stage as a swing covering 26 different tracks after only four days of rehearsal!

Listen as they dive into Sara's transition from performing to creative leadership. She opens up about her experiences as a resident choreographer for massive Broadway hits like Billy Elliot and Matilda, detailing the rigorous process of teaching the legendary, high-stakes "alphabet gate" choreography in Matilda. Sara also shares her deeply collaborative philosophy as a director, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe space where artists aren't afraid to take risks and fail.

Beyond her past projects, Sara reveals her imaginative vision for The Little Mermaid, using reflective fabrics, projections, and massive puppet sea anemones to transport audiences underwater. She also discusses her profound connection to Ariel's search for identity and her future aspirations to create site-specific and immersive theater in non-traditional spaces.

In this episode of Behind the Curtain at RMT, host Roy Lightner sits down with the incredibly talented Matthew Piper, who stars as Prince Eric in Red Mountain Theatre's production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

Tune in as Matthew shares his unique journey to the stage, starting from his childhood growing up on a farm in a small Alabama town where his family wasn't familiar with the theater world. He hilariously recounts his very first audition in the fifth grade—where he snagged a role by singing the "Cup Song" from Pitch Perfect without the actual cup—and explains how the strong sense of belonging and community kept him hooked on the arts. Listeners will also hear the full-circle story of how a welcoming college audition led by Roy himself convinced Matthew to officially pursue a musical theater degree at UAB.

Listen as they dive into Matthew's blossoming career, transitioning straight from a nine-month stint performing on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship to stepping into the shoes of an iconic Disney prince. He reveals the fun fact that he actually first played the role of Prince Eric in the eighth grade, making this a true homecoming moment. Matthew opens up about redefining success on his own terms, navigating life chapter by chapter, and his pursuit of finding ultimate freedom and a "flow state" during his performances. He also shares how looking up to grounded, talented artists like his Frozen co-star Sarah Fernandez has shaped his own professional trajectory.

Beyond his current success, Matthew speaks about his simple but profound dream: to experience as much of life as possible and remain happy in whatever path he chooses to take. He reveals a beautiful personal practice on stage, sharing how he uses his moments of true artistic freedom to sing a silent "thank you" to the family, friends, and mentors who have supported his journey.

Whether you're a local theater supporter, a young artist figuring out your path, or just someone who loves a heartwarming story of finding your people, this joyful and grounded episode is a must-listen!

In this episode of Behind the Curtain at RMT, host Roy Lightner sits down with the phenomenal Liz McCartney, who brings her stellar reputation to the role of Ursula in Red Mountain Theatre's production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

Tune in as Liz shares her incredible journey to the Broadway stage. She talks about growing up in a musical family where she even produced the "McCartney family Christmas album", attending the Boston Conservatory, and getting her Actors Equity card right before her senior year. She reminisces about moving to New York in 1990, using the off-Broadway show Nunsense as her reliable "waitressing job" between regional gigs, before rapidly booking the Les Misérables tour and heading to Broadway with The Phantom of the Opera.

Listen as they dive into the realities of a lifelong career in the theater industry. Liz opens up about navigating industry changes, from the grueling shift to at-home self-tape auditions to the evolving reasons casting directors give for rejection as an actor ages. She also discusses her full-circle connection to her current show, revealing that she was actually in the very first full workshop of The Little Mermaid. With a resume bursting with iconic shows, Liz gets real about the rigorous reality of an eight-show week, emphasizing that true professionals give 100% of themselves every single day, rather than relying on theater "magic".

Beyond her own performances, Liz discusses her deep love for teaching and the profound emotional impact of helping young students feel truly "seen". She shares hilariously candid stories about dedicated fans and stalkers, her experience making the legendary Stephen Sondheim laugh, and why her definitive answer for her favorite movie is Die Hard. Ultimately, Liz reveals that despite her massive list of Broadway credits, she hopes her castmates remember her most as a genuine collaborator who works with them rather than just a diva plopped into the center of the stage.

Whether you're a seasoned performer, a dedicated theatergoer, or just someone who loves a refreshingly honest look at a life in the arts, this hilarious and insightful episode is a must-listen!

In this episode of Behind the Curtain at RMT, host Roy Lightner sits down with the incredibly talented Avionce Hoyles, who steps into the iconic role of Sebastian in Red Mountain Theatre's production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

Tune in as Avionce shares his inspiring journey to the stage, starting from his childhood growing up in a religious Southern Baptist household in South Carolina, where his singing was initially confined to the church. He reveals how a second-grade improv workshop helped him discover his comedic chops and how his high school theater teacher ultimately convinced him to pursue an arts scholarship instead of becoming a clinical therapist.

Listen as they dive into Avionce's full-circle connection with The Little Mermaid. He discusses how seeing Titus Burgess play Sebastian on Broadway completely blew his mind as a young college student at AMDA, and how becoming a new uncle in real life has deeply influenced his current, grounded take on the beloved crab. Avionce also shares an unforgettable audition story for Jesus Christ Superstar, where a director challenged him to bring his "full self" to the role of King Herod a moment that forever changed his artistic trajectory.

Beyond his current role, Avionce speaks passionately about rejecting the romanticized "starving artist" trope, emphasizing that artists are highly trained professionals who provide the world's essential entertainment. He opens up about his personal love letter to the Queen of Rock and Roll with his touring solo show, Dear Tina, and shares his ultimate dream: to become a dynamic producer who discovers and elevates new, untapped talent, much like his idol Quincy Jones.

Whether you're an aspiring performer, a passionate theater fan, or someone looking for a little motivation to chase your own dreams, this deeply moving and laugh-out-loud episode is a must-listen!

In this episode of Behind the Curtain at RMT, host Roy Lightner sits down with the incredibly talented Mia Cabrera, who is taking on the iconic role of Ariel in Red Mountain Theatre's production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Tune in as Mia shares her full-circle journey, revealing how seeing a local production of The Little Mermaid Jr. as a child first sparked her lifelong passion for musical theater. Currently a musical theater student at Oberlin Conservatory, Mia discusses the emotional and physical challenges of transitioning theater from a beloved hobby into a professional career, reflecting on a rigorous sophomore year that reaffirmed her love for the stage. Listen as they dive deep into the realities of being a young artist today. Mia opens up about navigating the double-edged sword of social media in the modern industry and learning the importance of truly presenting herself and her age during professional auditions. She also reflects on her thrilling experience competing and performing at the 2024 Jimmy Awards in New York City, and shares how she looks up to versatile, boundary-pushing artists like Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Beyond the stage, Mia talks about her grounding hobby of making and painting ceramics and her ultimate dream of moving to a tiny New York City apartment to fully embrace the hustle of a working actor. Whether you're a theater fan, a fellow artist, or just love a story about chasing your dreams, this bubbly and inspiring episode is a must-listen!

The two old friends catch up on Meggie's incredible journey from growing up in Kansas City to performing on Broadway, and everywhere in between. They dive deep into the emotional weight of Dear Evan Hansen, discussing how the show tackles difficult topics like suicide, family psychology, and the universal need for people to be seen, heard, and found. Meggie shares her unique perspective on portraying a grieving mother, the struggles of a family picking up the pieces, and the importance of finding truth and hope in heavy theatrical material.

Also in this episode:

• The infectious energy of working alongside talented UAB college students in this co-production.
• Why great art isn't defined by location—whether you're in New York, California, or Birmingham, Alabama.
• The beautiful science behind the "collective heartbeat" of a live theater audience experiencing a show together.
• A hilarious "Name That Tune" segment (featuring a mix-up between Lady Gaga and George Gershwin) and a rapid-fire 60-second speed round where we learn Meggie's preferences on everything from coffee to rom-coms.

Tune in for an inspiring, heartfelt, and funny conversation about the power of theater, staying curious in life, and the importance of reaching out to connect with the people around you.

Jake opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of playing a grieving parent, the challenge of stepping out of the play's heavy headspace, and how his own life experiences helped him relate to his character's complex journey. He also shares a refreshingly candid perspective on the entertainment industry, explaining his decision to trade the grueling Broadway schedule of New York City for a more fulfilling work-life balance in Tuscaloosa. Jake and Roy discuss the realization that "the machine doesn't care about you," the importance of protecting your time, and finding deep artistic satisfaction and community impact in professional regional theater.

Plus, the episode takes a fun turn as we put Jake in the hot seat! Get to know his quirks in a 60-second rapid-fire questionnaire, including his very strong feelings about slow drivers in the passing lane. Finally, Jake plays a round of "Name That Tune," leading to hilarious backstage memories, from his stint as a completely lost dance captain in the off-Broadway revival of Carrie to the crazy story of making his unexpected Broadway debut with almost zero rehearsal in Rock of Ages.

Tune in for an honest, insightful, and entertaining conversation about art, life, and defining success on your own terms!

In this episode, Roy sits down with Darion Dewhirst, who is stepping into his dream role as the title character in Dear Evan Hansen. Marking his final college performance, Darion discusses the unique dynamic of starring in a UAB and Red Mountain Theatre co-production, and the intense stamina required for a massive role where he is off stage for a total of only 60 to 90 seconds.

Darion dives deep into the emotional weight of playing Evan, sharing his challenges with leaving the character's intense physical tension and anxiety at the theater. He also opens up about the powerful personal parallels between his own life and the musical, reflecting on his adoption at age 13, his relationship with his chosen family, and how his personal history helps him connect with Evan's journey.

Listeners will get an inside look at Darion's rigorous path from training 16 hours a day in New Orleans to finding his vocal confidence in Birmingham. Theatre nerds will especially love the deep dive into the Estill vocal technique, where Darion explains how he manipulates his cricoid cartilage and uses body anchoring to capture Evan's youthful, anxious, and high-belting voice.

Plus, stick around for some lighter moments as Darion and Roy face off in a rapid-fire 60-second speed round and a hilarious, unexpectedly difficult game of "Name That Tune".

Kristen brings immense vulnerability to the conversation, opening up about how her own life experiences, navigating a blended family, divorce, and mental health challenges, make Heidi one of the most personal and relatable roles of her career. Beyond her current performance, Kristen and Roy dive deep into the importance of live theatre in a modern, screen-obsessed culture, highlighting the theatre as one of the last remaining spaces where people can put down their devices, disconnect from the noise, and truly commune with raw humanity.

What you'll hear in this episode:

• The Power of Listening: Why taking the time to "listen first" is essential in a society dominated by social media, where everyone is desperately trying to be heard.
• Reflecting on a Storied Career: Kristen plays a nostalgic game of "Name That Tune," sharing memories from her iconic roles at RMT, including Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s Mary Poppins, Bright Star, Waitress, and teaching herself to play the piano for Once.
• Touring with Parade: An unforgettable story about booking the first national tour of Parade at 17, working with theatre legends Hal Prince and Jason Robert Brown, and the hilarious way she used to sneak her cell phone onto the stage inside a parasol so her mom could listen to the show.
• Fun and Games: A fast-paced 60-second speed round where Kristen and Roy flip the script on each other to reveal their favorite things.

Tune in for a deeply moving, funny, and inspiring conversation about the responsibility of storytelling, pushing through stage fright, and the pursuit of artistic excellence.

Monet reflects on her journey from choir student to multifaceted director, writer, and creative consultant. The conversation dives into her perspective on storytelling, the importance of protecting creative energy, and why staying connected to your “why” is crucial in a demanding industry. She also shares her vision for this production of The Wiz—an Afro-futuristic interpretation inspired by the style and culture of the 1990s and early 2000s, celebrating Black music, fashion, dance, and artistry. Through thoughtful design collaboration and a deep respect for the show’s legacy, Monet discusses how this production honors the past while bringing a fresh, contemporary voice to the story.

Anthony shares his journey from classical collaborative piano and opera to musical theatre, the artists who shaped his path, and what continues to draw him back to The Wiz. The conversation explores the art of electronic music design, click tracks, conducting from the piano, and the delicate balance of serving story through sound. Anthony also offers candid insight into the challenges of the show’s book, his Broadway aspirations, and advice for young artists entering a highly commercial industry. Plus — a rapid-fire round and musical theatre trivia to close the show! We hope you enjoy!

Join conversations with directors, performers, technical designers, and arts leaders as we explore the craft, collaboration, and creative challenges that shape every production. Whether you're an arts patron, theatre student, or creative professional, this podcast offers insight into how live performance is made.