The March sisters in VST’s “Little Women: The Musical” are, from left, Zoe Wirt, Hannah Kuykendall, Alexandria Brandstetter and Ma’Kayla Dial. Amy E. Johnson (not pictured) plays Marmee. (Photo/Marty Higginbotham)
When the Virginia Samford Theatre presents “Little Women: The Musical” Dec. 5-15, Bessemer’s Ma’Kayla Dial will be portraying the youngest March sister, Amy. It’s not her first time on the VST stage. She was in “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and participated in the theater’s STARS junior program. Dial talks about that experience, her wide taste in music and much more in this interview.
Tell me a little about yourself.
I’m Ma’Kayla Dial. I play Amy March. I’m from Bessemer, Alabama. I’m 19 years old. I attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I’m class of 2027.
What’s your first memory of being on stage?
I started theater at McAdory Middle School . We did a Disney musical with a bunch of different songs, and I sang “Just Around the Riverbend” and “The Circle of Life.”
When did you get involved in theater seriously?
I started taking it seriously when I got to high school at Shades Valley when I realized I’d never want to stop doing this art. I got my first lead role my senior year and then decided to continue my passion at UAB musical theater.
You’ve come up through the ranks at the Virginia Samford Theatre, participating in the STARS (Students Take a Role at the Samford) program, right?
Yes, I was a part of the STARS program. It taught me so much about the art of theater and theater etiquette and, of course, it gave me a taste of what the Virginia Samford Theatre had to offer. My favorite roles were a Nina in “Sister Act” and Audrey in “Descendants.”
This is my second Mainstage production as an actor. My first was “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” directed by Henry Scott. I was actually a part of every Mainstage production last season at VST tech-wise.
What have you been doing with UAB’s theater?
Performance-wise, I was a part of the spring opera with the music program. I am learning so much about my voice and my individuality as an artist. As a sophomore, I have a busy schedule, but it’s nothing I can’t manage.
Musical theater and neuroscience is an interesting combination that you’re studying at UAB. How did you land on that?
I love people and how they communicate with each other. Studying the brain could help me study how people communicate and me become a better artist. I would like to become a psychiatrist and perform for the rest of my life.
Were you a “Little Women” fan growing up?
I watched the movie, and I’ve always loved Amy. She is the youngest March sister. This process has been nothing short of wonderful! I wouldn’t have it any other way, and I’m excited for everyone to see what we have been cooking up. Rebecca Yeager is the best director. She’s offered me this space to play. And Debbie Mielke has been a great music director. It’s a beautiful story with a beautiful cast. Please come see it!
What’s your favorite role you’ve played?
Shelly in “Bat Boy: The Musical.”
Who is your favorite composer?
Jason Robert Brown.
Do you have a favorite show?
“The Last Five Years.” Dream show!
Do you have a favorite song from a show?
“Waiting for Life” from “Once on This Island.”
What is a role you wish you will play?
Ariel in “The Little Mermaid.”
Any great advice you’ve been given by a director?
Never stop being Ma’Kayla.
Do you have any pre-performance rituals?
I have to make a TikTok and take a cute selfie. Confidence is key.
Tell me something people might be surprised to know about you.
I have a lot of siblings, more than I can count. I’m the oldest.
What kind of music do you listen to when you’re not performing?
Anything! It can go from Kelly Clarkson to Kendrick Lamar in a hot minute.
What’s the last book you read?
“The Tiger Rising.”
What podcasts do you listen to?
“Pour Minds.”
What’s the last TV series you binged?
“Desperate Housewives.”
What’s next for you?
Rest, honey! Hopefully I stay booked and blessed.
“Little Women: The Musical,” at the Virginia Samford Theatre Dec. 5-15.
