Twenty-five years later, some memories are still just as vivid.

In this special episode of Backstage with Brough, I take a few minutes to reflect on September 11, 2001 — from walking from band to English class at Whitney Middle School that morning, to the eerie silence of the skies in the days that followed, visiting Ground Zero as a freshman in high school, and returning years later as both a visitor and an educator.

I also reflect on the unique connection between Oklahoma and New York — two places forever changed by events that turned ordinary days into dates we will never forget.

This wasn't a planned episode. It simply felt like the right way to share a few memories, reflect on the passage of 25 years, and most importantly, remember the lives lost, the first responders who ran toward danger, and all those whose lives were forever changed.

September 11, 2001.

Twenty-five years later, we remember.

Never forget.

Madelyn and Rori are officially stepping into their junior year—and their first year in Rep! So naturally, we had to get them backstage for an episode.

We talk about what it feels like to finally make it to Rep, the traditions they’re excited for, getting ready for One Act, looking back at some of their favorite shows, and of course, a little excitement about Frozen.

Along the way, the conversation takes us through Hawaii, In-N-Out, Chick-fil-A sauce on costumes, energy drinks, dream roles, superpowers, driving, and plenty of laughs.

It’s chaotic, it’s funny, and these two are just an absolute blast to have around.

So let’s head backstage!

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.