Cue to Cue: A Podcast Highlighting Eastern North Carolina Theater

Matthew McKellar
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Performing Arts

Ever wonder what happens behind the curtain of community theater in Eastern North Carolina? This podcast features actors, directors, tech crews, teachers, and the art that inspires them to keep theater alive in Nash and Wilson Counties.

Episodes

  1. 4d ago

    CHICAGO with Livvy Matthews

    Chicago Teen Edition with Livvy MatthewsMatthew McKellar talks with Livvy Matthews about her theater background and her role as Roxy Hart in the Wilson Arts Act for Youth's Fall 2026 production of Chicago Teen Edition. The conversation covers her growth from childhood community theater to leading roles, the collaborative rehearsal process, and the specific moments in Chicago that feel most rewarding on stage. In this episode: Livvy Matthews shares how she got started in theater at age eight with Act for Youth and has now performed in 27 shows.She reflects on early milestones like Beauty and the Beast as her first show and Matilda as her first named role with a mic.She discusses playing Little Red in Into the Woods as a favorite past experience because of the friendships and the role’s significance.Livvy explains what makes Chicago Teen Edition special, especially how quickly the cast came together and how committed everyone was in rehearsal.She talks about the challenge of taking on a lead role and balancing that with the ensemble-heavy demands of Chicago.She and Matthew discuss how performing alongside her sister Haley Matthews, who plays Velma Kelly, makes the production more comfortable and fun.Livvy breaks down the story of Chicago as a dark comedy about crime, publicity, and the way fame can be manufactured.She describes one of her biggest acting challenges as differentiating characters and using notes from directors to create distinct choices.She shares her pre-show routine, from hair and makeup to costume and wig, and how tech week helps her fully embody the character.She highlights favorite moments in the show, especially “All That Jazz” and the courtroom scene, where the blocking and cues feel especially intentional.CHICAGO: TEEN EDITION performances Friday, October 2, 2026 at 7:00 PMSaturday, October 3. 2026 at 7:00 PMSunday, October 4, 2026 at 3:00 PMTicket information for Act for Youth's current season: https://wilsonarts.com/afycurrent/?_gl=1*lr8mbv*_gcl_au*MTY1MTExMjMwNC4xNzkwNTU0Mzgz*_ga*Njk0MTcwODIwLjE3OTA1NTQzODM.*_ga_723QMSSGYK*czE3OTA1NTQzODMkbzEkZzAkdDE3OTA1NTQzODMkajYwJGwwJGgw

  2. Sep 19

    "EnVy," A David Winstead Original

    In this episode, Matthew talks with David Winstead, President of S2P2, Inc., about his upcoming production, "Envy," a non-traditional text written by David that acts as a poetic meditation and exploration of love. David and Matthew discuss the creation and development of the show, sharing insights into the writing process, the influence of personal experiences, and the impact of the theater environment. He also delves into the technical aspects of the show, including set design and the immersive experience for the audience. Takeaways Personal experiences and emotions can be a powerful source of inspiration for creative works.The immersive and intimate nature of theater can deeply impact the audience, allowing them to connect with the emotions and themes of the performance. Chapters 00:00 The Creation of 'Envy'02:09 Influence of Personal Experiences03:06 Impact of Theater School Environment17:07 Set Design and Immersive Experience Check out Envy at The Singers Studio (134 Tarboro St., Wilson, NC) as follows: Thursday, Sept. 18, 2026 at 7pm Friday, Sept. 18, 2026 at 7pm Saturday, Sept. 19 at 7pm Sunday, Sept 20, 2026 at 3pm Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. Tickets ($10) available at the door via cash, cashapp, or Venmo. Reserve by emailing s2p2ince@gmail.com Learn more about The Singers Studio at https://www.thesingersstudionc.com/

  3. Jun 10

    Khatari Lane: NextUp Theatre Company, DPAC Rising Star Awards, and Godspell

    Local theatre performer, director, and producer Khatari Lane discusses how he got into theatre, his production company, NextUp Theatre and its summer camp for Shrek, Jr., his experience with the DPAC Rising Stars Awards, and music directing the Imperial Centre's upcoming summer production of Godspell. Takeaways The importance of theater for preteensThe role of volunteers in musical theaterBe intentional when on stage DPAC Rising Star Awards https://www.dpacnc.com/community/dpac-rising-star-awards Godspell Imperial Centre, Rocky Mount July 17-19, July 24-26 2026 https://imperialcentre.org/theatre/upcoming/ NextUp Theatre Company https://www.facebook.com/p/NextUp-Theatre-Company-61566918926322/

  4. May 11

    Bridges of Madison County with Seth Greene

    Matt and Seth discuss Playhouse of Wilson's upcoming production of The Bridges of Madison County, The Musical. Seth discusses his philosophy regarding taking artistic liberties in performances. Takeaways Love for theaterTaking artistic liberties Bridges of Madison County, The Musical Edna Boykin Cultural Center Wilson, North Carolina Friday, May 29 and Saturday May 30 at 7:30 PM Sunday, May 31 at 3:00 PM Playhouse of Wilson: https://www.playhouseofwilson.com/productions Tickets: https://wilsonarts.com/tickets/?_gl=1*oja8sb*_ga*NjM0MjQ4ODkuMTc3NDIzNzc0Mg..*_ga_723QMSSGYK*czE3Nzg1MDcwNDckbzExJGcwJHQxNzc4NTA3MDQ3JGo2MCRsMCRoMA..

  5. May 1

    Sweeney Todd with Director David Winstead

    On today's episode, Matthew interviews David Winstead, the President of S2P2, Inc., and they discuss S2P2's upcoming production of Sweeney Todd. The conversation covers the introduction to S2P2 and Sweeney Todd, directing style and collaboration, the importance of table work rehearsals, mental and physical preparation for acting, and an overview of Sweeney Todd as a dark comedy with themes of revenge and madness. Takeaways Collaborative directing styleSignificance of table work rehearsals Sweeney Todd https://wilsonarts.com/event/s2p2-inc-presents-sweeney-todd-2/ Edna Boykin Center Wilson, North Carolina May 1 & 2 at 7:00pm May 3 at 3:00

  6. Apr 16

    Shrek the Musical with Jillian Hale (Fiona) and Matthew McKellar (Shrek)

    Matt (Shrek) and Jillian Hale (Fiona) discuss their roles in Nash Central High School's upcoming production of Shrek the Musical. Jillian also shares her journey in theater, from early experiences to favorite roles and the challenges of performing. She provides insights into the adaptation of Shrek to Broadway, the rehearsal process, and the message of acceptance in the show. Jillian also offers advice for aspiring performers and invites the audience to attend Shrek the Musical this week: April 16-18 at 7:00pm Imperial Centre Rocky Mount, NC Tickets: https://www.ncpschools.net/aboutus/news/news-details/~board/ncps-updates/post/nash-central-high-school-presents-shrek-the-musical-at-the-imperial-centre Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shrek the Musical05:23 Passion for Dance and Theater10:30 Rehearsal Process at Mass Central17:03 Audience Takeaways from the Show22:21 Advice for Aspiring Performers

  7. Apr 10

    Director Seth Penwell and Tar Heel Tales

    Director Seth Penwell discusses ACT! for Youth's production of Tar Heel Tales. He also discusses directing, balancing drama and comedy in theater, teaching and directing youth in theater, directing SpongeBob, theater challenges and uncertainties, and advice for young actors. Tar Heel Tales- Edna Boykin Cultural Center Wilson, North Carolina Friday, April 10 at 7pm Saturday, April 11 at 2pm Sunday, April 12 at 3pm Tickets: https://wilsonartsnc.square.site/product/act-for-youth-presents-tarheel-tales-advance-/52QRSEG5MCVOJY5TBEKZ6UOQ?cs=true&cst=custom Get Involved! https://wilsonarts.com/actforyouth/

  8. Mar 30

    Six The Musical with Hailey Matthews

    Hailey Matthews discusses ACT! for Youth's upcoming production of Six The Musical (Teen Edition). Six is a pop concert-like musical about Henry VIII's six wives. Learn about Hailey's theater journey and how Six inspires confidence and empowerment in girls and women. Don't miss the show! April 11 & 12 at 7PM April 18 at 6PM and 9PM Edna Boykin Cultural Center Wilson, North Carolina Tickets: https://wilsonartsnc.square.site/show-tickets ACT! for Youth: https://wilsonarts.com/actforyouth/ Singers Studio: https://www.thesingersstudionc.com/ Wilson Arts & Edna Boykin Cultural Center: https://wilsonarts.com/edna-boykin-cultural-center/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:08 Behind the Scenes of Six the Musical 04:10 Community Theater's Impact on Kids 04:59 Overview of Six the Musical 06:25 The Concert Experience of Six 07:28 Vocal and Character Development 10:02 Costume Design and Modern Aesthetic 11:51 Working with Music Director Seth Green 15:18 Playing Catherine of Aragon 16:05 Sisterly Bond and Growing in Theater 18:05 Teen Edition of Six and Content Adjustments 19:39 Recommendations and Empowerment Themes 21:39 The Significance of Women's Empowerment 21:54 Performance Schedule and Excitement for the Show 24:47 Final Words and Personal Growth in Theater

  9. Mar 23

    Ada Dunton & The Addams Family

    Meet Ada Dutton, a sophomore at Rocky Mount Academy, who will be portraying Wednesday Addams in RMA's upcoming production of The Addams Family. Ada shares her journey from acting to building strong friendships. This episode explores the dedication required for theater, the challenges and rewards of portraying complex characters like Wednesday Addams, and why supporting local productions matters. The Addams Family: A New Musical Comedy March 25 & 26 7:00 PM The Dunn Center Tickets only available at the door. ($5 students, $10 adults) Main Topics:The personal growth and friendships cultivated through months of rehearsalInsights into the production process of "The Addams Family" at RMAHow theater enhances confidence and teamwork in young performersThe importance of supporting community arts programsRehearsal schedules, backstage roles, and actress preparation tipsIn this episode:Ada discusses her role as Wednesday Addams and her experience with this iconic characterThe cast’s rehearsal routines, including weekly schedules and tech week detailsDramatic challenges of balancing dual personalities within charactersThe lasting friendships formed through long-term theater projectsAudience takeaway: embracing imperfections and the joy of live performanceResources & Links:www.rmacademy.comhttps://wilsonarts.com/camps/https://wilsonarts.com/tickets/https://ncwu.edu/dunn-center-performing-arts/ Thank you for listening to Cue to Cue! Embrace the arts, support local talent, and never underestimate the community you can build through theater.

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    Discover Cue to Cue

    Welcome to Cue to Cue—a podcast celebrating the people and passion behind community theater in Eastern North Carolina.

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    9 Episodes

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About

Ever wonder what happens behind the curtain of community theater in Eastern North Carolina? This podcast features actors, directors, tech crews, teachers, and the art that inspires them to keep theater alive in Nash and Wilson Counties.

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