Beltline to Broadway

What makes live theater essential in the age of AI and streaming? Lauren Van Hemert sits down with actor and Honest Pint Theatre Company co-founder David Henderson to discuss the state of regional theater, the future of immersive performance, and the irreplaceable power of human connection. They also explore David’s production of Every Brilliant Thing and how the acclaimed play uses humor, hope, and audience participation to open meaningful conversations about mental health, grief, and the small things that make life worth living. David Henderson is a North Carolina-based actor, director, producer, and co-founder of Raleigh’s Honest Pint Theatre Company. A longtime presence in the Triangle theater community, Henderson is known for compelling, character-driven performances in productions including I Am My Own Wife, The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey, and Every Brilliant Thing. Through Honest Pint, he champions intimate, thought-provoking theater that entertains audiences while sparking meaningful conversation and human connection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Lauren Van Hemert sits down with Eric Woodall, Producing Artistic Director of Theatre Raleigh and former Tony Awards voter, for an insider's look at Broadway's biggest night. Drawing on his eight years as a Tony voter, Eric demystifies the nomination and voting process, explains how winners are selected, and shares what really goes on behind the scenes during the final weeks leading up to the Tony Awards. Together, they break down this year's most talked-about plays and musicals, discuss standout performances, and offer predictions for the season's biggest categories. Whether you're a devoted theater fan or simply curious about the awards race, this episode offers thoughtful analysis, insider perspective, and plenty of enthusiasm for the magic of live theater. Eric Woodall is the Producing Artistic Director of Theatre Raleigh, where he has helped establish the company as one of the Southeast's premier professional theater organizations. A nationally respected theater leader, director, and casting professional, Eric spent many years working at the highest levels of the Broadway industry, casting productions in New York and helping shape the careers of countless performers. His extensive experience spans commercial theater, regional theater, and arts leadership, giving him a unique perspective on both the creative and business sides of the industry. Known for his passion for developing artists and creating exceptional theatrical experiences, Eric remains deeply connected to the national theater community while championing the growth of professional theater in North Carolina. Through his work, he continues to foster new talent, celebrate the power of live performance, and connect audiences with world-class storytelling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How does an aspiring doctor make the leap to the stage and step into the role of the Michael Jackson alternate in the national tour of MJ the Musical? In this episode, we sit down with Melvin Gray Jr., who shares what it takes to embody one of history's most iconic performers. It’s a conversation about pivots, purpose, and what happens when you allow your path to evolve beyond the original plan. About the Guest Melvin Gray Jr. -- Tours: Ain’t Too Proud (Swing/Dance Captain). Regional: Bull Durham, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Songs for a New World, The Scottsboro Boys, Newsies. Film/TV: “Killer Beat”, “Medicating & Healing”, “Hype”. Writer/producer: The Witch’s Book.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kennedy Caughell—currently starring as Jersey in the national tour of Hell’s Kitchen— joins the pod squad to share her journey from growing up on a small Oklahoma farm to building a career on Broadway, reflecting on the faith, visualization, and relentless discipline that fueled her dreams. Kennedy also discusses the profound influence of Carole King and Alicia Keys on her artistry, leadership, and upcoming music projects, while exploring how Hell’s Kitchen speaks to today’s divided cultural moment—reminding listeners that community, creativity, and collective action remain powerful forces for healing and hope. Kennedy has captivated audiences nationwide with her powerhouse vocals and magnetic stage presence. She was most recently seen as Jenna in Waitress and has starred in iconic roles such as Carole King in the national tour of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Elphaba in Wicked, and Elsa in Frozen. Broadway credits include Paradise Square, Beautiful, and Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812. Kennedy made her Carnegie Hall debut in the leading role of Super You, returning just a month later to star in Mozart: Her Story – The New Musical. Other favorite regional credits: MTWichita, NLB, 9 to 5 at the Fulton (Judy), Tick, Tick… Boom! at the Kennedy Center (dir. Neil Patrick Harris), and Great Comet at PCLO (Sonya). On screen, she’s appeared in Law & Order: SVU, Parked for Love, and The Outlier. Beyond the stage, Kennedy is preparing to release her debut album, Just the Beginning, and is a passionate educator, offering master classes and private coaching across the country. BFA in Music Theater from Elon University.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a powerful, joy-filled conversation about saying yes to yourself—no matter your age, body, or past doubts. First, Christina Wells, who shares how discovering confidence later in life transformed her career, her sense of worth, and her mission to inspire others. From her breakout moment on America’s Got Talent to championing community, Christina reflects on resilience, representation, and the freedom that comes with embracing your authentic self. Then, learn how Music Theater International's senior editions of classic musicals are impacting communities and how Dancing Man Productions is putting performers ages 55 and over center stage at Raleigh Little Theatre. It’s a moving reminder that it’s never too late to step into the spotlight—or your second act. Christina Wells is a nurse, singer, actress, and motivational speaker from Houston, Texas. After years of caring for othersas a Registered Nurse, and single mother to her two incredible sons, Christina embarked upon a journey of self-discovery that would lead her to national recognition. While in her 40s, she shifted focus toward her passion for singing and performance and found herself auditioning for America’s Got Talent. She not only landed a spot in the competition but was a semifinalist earning praise from the infamous Simon Cowell while winning over the hearts of America. Follow Christina on social media @christinawellsofficial or visit christinawells.com. Mark Steward and Freddie Lee Heath (Dancing Man Productions): Heath holds a BS in Dance from East Carolina University and a Masters in School Administration from North Carolina State University.  He worked for Wake County Public Schools in Raleigh, NC since 1992 having taught dance to all levels K-12.  Recently retired, he served the district as Director of Arts Education in this position he based his work firmly on an equity based practice that arts for all combined with rigor and relevance daily as he guided the work of 650 arts educators. Freddie Lee was one of the first dance educators in the country to achieve National Board Certification; now, he mentors others through this process.  In 2010, he served as president of North Carolina Alliance for Athletics, Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance where he has the distinction of being only the 2nd dance educator to serve in the 122 year history of the organization.  Heath has received numerous awards based on his teaching including “Dance Teacher” Magazine’s 2008 K-12 National Teacher of the Year and National Dance Association’s 2010 National K-12 Teacher of the Year. For more information visit dancingmanproductions.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of Beltline to Broadway features a thoughtful conversation with director and artist N.J. Agwuna, exploring her journey through Broadway, off-Broadway, and regional theater, including her work on Moulin Rouge, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, and the Pulitzer Prize–winning play Primary Trust. Agwuna reflects on lessons in leadership, collaboration, and community, particularly the importance of honoring individuality within established productions and creating welcoming spaces for artists. She discusses the inequities faced by Black women in theater, the value of mentorship and peer networks, and how community sustains artists and audiences. NJ Agwuna is a director and theater artist whose work spans Broadway, off-Broadway, and regional stages, with a focus on collaborative storytelling, emotional clarity, and ensemble-driven work. She has served as an assistant director on productions including Moulin Rouge! The Musical on Broadway and national tour, as well as the current off-Broadway revival of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Working with companies such as Third Rail Productions and Punch Drunk has given her new insight into how to affect audiences in ways that make them ask tough questions, connect with characters in new ways, and grow, shift, and change their ideas about what theatre is and their experience of it.  She approaches theatre with curiosity and wonder, believing that theatre can not only heal us, but also show us all the possibilities of the world that we inhabit. She has worked on a national and international scale, continuing to explore classic texts, develop new plays, and devise and investigate new ways to explore trauma and mental illness through theatre. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Raised on the music of Sinatra and Frankie Valli, Dominic Scaglione Jr. reflects on Sinatra’s torch songs, the magic of playing Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys and returning to the stage with Amanda Kloots in The Sarafinas, My Way at Theatre Raleigh. About The Guest Dominic Scaglione Jr. played the role of Four Seasons frontman Frankie Valli in the Chicago and Las Vegas companies of the Tony Award-winning Jersey Boys before joining the Broadway company in 2013. Eschewing college or theater training, the Belleville, New Jersey native wanted to be a singer and toured with major music acts like Destiny’s Child and Christina Aguilera before committing to theater. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gerianne Perez (Operation Mincemeat) joins the pod squad to talk about her journey from singing in her high school's show choir to Broadway. Hear what she has to say about the importance of representation in theater, the quiet confidence learned from working with powerhouse women, and the performer mindset that helps overcome nerves. Gerianne Perez is a powerhouse performer known for her soaring vocals, emotional depth, and commanding stage presence. A proud New Yorker of Puerto Rican descent, she has built a dynamic career spanning Broadway and several national tours. She made her Broadway debut in the groundbreaking a cappella musical In Transit and went on to appear in Waitress, where her vocal strength and heartfelt performance left a lasting mark. Most recently, she is standing by for the tour de force role of Montagu in the U.S. premiere of the West End hit Operation Mincemeat, earning praise for her comedic brilliance and versatility in one of the most buzzed-about new musicals of the season. Her national tour credits include Vocalosity, Waitress, and the original U.S. Boleyn Tour company of SIX, where she originated the role of Catherine of Aragon. Gerianne has also worked extensively in regional theatre, bringing warmth, wit, and vocal fire to both classic and contemporary roles. For more information visit www.gerianneperez.com. Be sure to follow Beltline to Broadway on social media @beltlinetobroadway OR visit us online at www.beltlinetobroadway.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode dives into the play Native and the independent film adaptation The Problem of the Hero, both of which explore the relationship and ideological conflict between literary figures Richard Wright and Paul Green. The conversation delves into themes of racism, patriotism, artistic integrity, censorship, and the role of art in driving social change. David zum Brunnen is a seasoned actor, director, and theater-maker with decades of experience in both classical and contemporary work. He is widely recognized for his portrayal of Paul Green in Native and The Problem of the Hero, roles that reflect his longstanding interest in the life and legacy of the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright. In addition to acting, zum Brunnen is also a respected educator and producer, known for fostering collaborative ensemble work and promoting historically significant narratives. J. Mardrice Henderson is an accomplished actor and storyteller known for his dynamic stage presence and thoughtful portrayals of complex characters. A classically trained performer with a passion for social justice and truth-telling through art, Henderson first came to prominence through his role as Richard Wright in the stage play Native, later reprising the role in the award-winning independent film The Problem of the Hero. His performance earned acclaim for its emotional depth and fierce authenticity. Outside of acting, Henderson is an educator and advocate for equity in the arts, often lending his voice to discussions around representation and cultural integrity in storytelling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the Beltline to Broadway podcast, hosted by Lauren Van Hemert, spotlights a new production of Hairspray at Thalian Hall in Wilmington, NC. What makes this production unique is its powerful blend of Broadway alumni, live TV experience, and hair-raising (literally) design, brought together by the Opera House Theatre Company. Melissa VanPelt is a native of Memphis TN and a graduate of AMDA(The American Musical and Dramatic Academy) in NYC. Theater credits include Hairspray on Broadway, Hairspray National Tour, Once On this Island, Ain’t Misbehavin', Purlie and Fame. Live Entertainment credits include Hairspray with The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Spirit cruises, Cedar Point, Libertyland, and The USO Show Troupe. Rhon Saunders is a dynamic performer and choreographer whose career bridges the worlds of stage and screen. A featured dancer in NBC’s Hairspray Live!, Rhon’s high-energy performance and deep understanding of the show's iconic choreography brought him national attention and solidified his connection to the Hairspray legacy. With over a decade of professional dance experience, Rhon has worked across theater, television, and live entertainment, bringing both charisma and precision to every project he touches. As co-choreographer for the Opera House Theatre Company’s production of Hairspray, Rhon combines his lived experience in the show with a thoughtful, inclusive approach to storytelling through movement. Erin Sullivan is a seasoned performer and wig designer whose connection to Hairspray spans decades and roles. She starred as Amber Von Tussle in the national tour from 2008 to 2010 and now returns to the stage as Velma, bringing full-circle flair and fierce comedic timing to the Opera House Theatre Company’s production. A true multi-hyphenate, Erin also serves as the show's wig supervisor, drawing on her deep knowledge of character transformation and period styling. Her passion for theatrical storytelling—both onstage and backstage—makes her an invaluable part of the Hairspray legacy and a beloved mentor to rising performers. Links: Opera House Theatre Company Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices