In this episode of Behind the Curtain at RMT, host Roy Lightner sits down with his lifelong friend and Broadway veteran, Meggie Cansler Ness. Meggie is currently starring as Cynthia Murphy in Red Mountain Theatre's production of Dear Evan Hansen.

The two old friends catch up on Meggie's incredible journey from growing up in Kansas City to performing on Broadway, and everywhere in between. They dive deep into the emotional weight of Dear Evan Hansen, discussing how the show tackles difficult topics like suicide, family psychology, and the universal need for people to be seen, heard, and found. Meggie shares her unique perspective on portraying a grieving mother, the struggles of a family picking up the pieces, and the importance of finding truth and hope in heavy theatrical material.

Also in this episode:

• The infectious energy of working alongside talented UAB college students in this co-production.
• Why great art isn't defined by location—whether you're in New York, California, or Birmingham, Alabama.
• The beautiful science behind the "collective heartbeat" of a live theater audience experiencing a show together.
• A hilarious "Name That Tune" segment (featuring a mix-up between Lady Gaga and George Gershwin) and a rapid-fire 60-second speed round where we learn Meggie's preferences on everything from coffee to rom-coms.

Tune in for an inspiring, heartfelt, and funny conversation about the power of theater, staying curious in life, and the importance of reaching out to connect with the people around you.