From Quiet Strength to Center Stage

During our very first conversation, I had to lean in close to hear her speak. Mariyah’s voice matches her demeanor—soft, gentle, warm. At first glance, she’s not the type you’d think would be interested in theatre. She’s quiet and comes across as a bit shy, but over the years I’ve learned that it’s always the quiet ones who end up surprising you the most. 

The first opportunity I had to work with Mariyah was in ArtXecute’s production of The Lion King. She played a lioness, and what quickly became evident during rehearsals is that dance is Mariyah’s primary means of communicating with the world. As this huntress glided across the stage—every step deliberate, fluid and striking—her presence spoke volumes. Mariyah’s elegance speaks to her eloquence. Her voice may be quiet, but it is no less powerful. 

And with each rehearsal, Mariyah shone more and more brilliantly—both on stage and off. Not only did she continually challenge herself to higher levels of excellence, she lit the path for the rest of her pride to do the same, offering encouragement and support every step of the way. 

So, it came as no surprise when Mariyah shared that she’d been cast in Lenoir Community College’s production of Footloose. No doubt the audition team at LCC saw what we at ArtXecute have known for quite some time—Mariyah is a force to be reckoned with. 

We are incredibly proud of her and will be seated front and center when she performs at LCC in July. And she will not be alone. We will also be cheering on her fellow Footloose castmates—Alyssa Bayless, who played Miss Hannigan in ArtXecute’s recent production of Annie, and Shelton Carter, who played Rooster and has now been cast in the lead role in Footloose. The Paramount’s own Jim Grant will also be taking the stage. 

There is something special happening here. What we are building is not confined to one production, one stage, or one moment. It carries. It multiplies. It shows up in rooms we were never in. 

I guess what they say is true: There’s GOLD in Goldsboro!™

Tickets for Lenoir Community College’s production of Footloose go on sale April 20th and may be purchased at lenoircc.edu/lccfpa.

Mariyah Wooten and the cast of Lenoir Community College’s production of Footloose