In this episode of Backstage with Brough, I sit down with Union Theatre alumni Audrey and Ariana as they return to the PAC to help choreograph Union’s Back-to-School Kickoff.

Audrey is back for her third year on the creative team, while Ariana is experiencing the process for the first time. They talk about what brought them back, what they’ve been doing since graduation, and how different it feels returning to Union as staff members instead of students.

They also take us behind the scenes of creating the kickoff choreography, from the early planning stages and long hours in the dance studio to teaching the routines and working with the next generation of Union performers. Along the way, they share memories, college experiences, future goals, plenty of laughs, and a few hints about what audiences can expect from this year’s performance.

The episode wraps up with a lightning round and an emotional conversation about passing the torch, as Audrey reveals that this may be her final year choreographing the kickoff.

Graduating senior Jordan Burlison joins Backstage with Brough to give us a look at the side of theatre most people never see. As Union Theatre’s stage manager for the last two years, Jordan has helped keep the chaos organized, the cues moving, and the shows running from behind the curtain.

In this episode, we talk about what it really takes to stage manage a production, her journey from middle school tech to calling cues for major musicals, favorite memories from Shrek, Footloose, and Little Women, and the life lessons theatre has taught her along the way.

Plus, we dive into backstage fails, tech crew stories, Red Bulls, Johnny Cash, and what’s next as Jordan heads to Wichita State.

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.