From riding across the stage as a turtle in The Little Mermaid to taking center stage as Fiona in Shrek, graduating senior Gloria Friend has spent years growing up in Union Theatre. In this episode of Backstage with Brough, Gloria reflects on her theatre journey, the roles that shaped her, and how a childhood activity became a passion she plans to pursue in college.

We talk about favorite performances, memorable rehearsal moments, auditioning for musical theatre programs, surviving show season, and what’s next as she heads to UCO to study musical theatre. Along the way, Gloria shares plenty of laughs, “Gloria-isms,” and stories from her years on the Union stage.

Plus, dream roles, Survivor dreams, and why theatre will always be a part of who she is.

Graduating senior Kaden Grant joins Backstage with Brough to reflect on four years of theatre, favorite roles, and the memories that made Union Theatre feel like home. From playing Friedrich Bhaer in Little Women and Coach Dunbar in Footloose to sharing stories from rehearsals, holiday assemblies, and life backstage, Kaiden looks back on a journey filled with laughter, growth, and plenty of unforgettable moments.

We also talk about finding confidence on stage, his plans after graduation, growing his YouTube channel, and why theatre will always be a part of who he is.

Plus, lightning-round questions, backstage stories, and a few laughs along the way.

William Gardner joins the podcast to look back on a theatre journey that started in seventh grade and grew into standout roles like Gleb in Anastasia and Willard in Footloose. We talk about overcoming stage fright, finding confidence on stage, favorite memories from the past six years, and what’s next as he heads into a new chapter after graduation. Plus, plenty of laughs, lightning-round questions, and a few classic theatre stories along the way.