McKenzie Russ ’26, BFA Musical Theatre

From a flashy golden age musical to timeless stories centered on family and a clever adaptation of a cartoon, the variety of musical theatre experiences prepared McKenzie Russ ’26 for a successful career launch with Stages St. Louis, a professional theatre company and performing arts academy in St. Louis, Missouri.

There, Russ has confidently stepped into the role of assistant director and assistant choreographer. Russ will assist in the direction and choreography of a production of Guys and Dolls, working closely with James Monroe Iglehart, a Tony Award-winner known for originating the role of Genie in the Broadway musical Aladdin, and Lindsay Lancaster, a choreographer and teacher based in New York.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I had at Viterbo to assistant direct and choreograph,” she said. “It prepared me to take this next step in my career.”

“I gained something different from every production,” Russ shared. She said it is difficult to choose just one favorite show, but she is partial to the production of I Love You Because. “It was my first time performing in a small-cast show, which allowed the cast and creative team to grow really close, and the rehearsal process was truly so much fun.”

Russ, who is from Edmond, Oklahoma, appreciates Viterbo faculty who she said each had a unique and lasting impact on her personal and artistic growth. “They truly care about each of their students, offer constant support and go above and beyond to help students succeed,” she said. “I am incredibly grateful for their time, energy, and compassion.” 

Russ appreciated the encouragement to discover and develop her unique, artistic voice. “Faculty challenge you while also building you up along the way,” she said.

“I feel confident not only as a performer, but also in my ability to choreograph and trust myself artistically, professionally, and personally.”

Russ’s Viterbo performing and production credits:

Theatre Performances:

• I Love You Because – Diana
• The SpongeBob Musical – Sandy Cheeks
• Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead – musician / tragedian
• 42^nd Street – swing / dance captain
• The Pirates of Penzance – swing / Kate under study

Production Experience:

• Godspell – choreographer
• Little Women – choreographer and assistant director
• 42^nd Street – swing / assistant choreographer

Dance Concerts:

• Dance Kaleidoscope - Principal

Film:

• We Aren’t Laughing at You…

Explore the Program

Learn more about Viterbo’s musical theatre program, where rigorous training meets meaningful performance opportunities, preparing you for a vibrant career on stage and beyond.