20 Questions with Wilkes Goodner
Austin’s ZACH Theatre has long been known for its talented teams of creative individuals from over the years. From gripping productions like Tribes and Notes From the Field to mesmerizing fairy tales like Disney’s Beauty and The Beast and even lighthearted fare like Tortoise and Hare, audiences have seen immense talent grace the stage, and their production of Matilda the Musical is no different.
We were lucky enough to ask some of the production’s rising stars a few questions to get to know the kids behind Matilda the Musical, including Wilkes Goodner who takes on the role on Bruce in this production. Goodner has also taken the stage at ZACH as Chip in their production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and as Benji in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. He is also a member of ZACH’s Pre-Professional Company, which is an audition based program for serious students looking for a professional training experience in Musical Theatre.
20 Questions with Wilkes Goodner
Wilkes Goodner
How old are you? 12
What's your favorite food? Sushi and spaghetti-not at the same time
What makes you smile? Friends and family
Who inspires you? People who work hard and are kind
What is your favorite animal? Turtle/tortoise
What's your Superhero name and what powers do you have? Wilkes- I still waiting for my powers to show up
How do you best help others? I try to be friendly and make people laugh
What are you most thankful for? My family and friends
What's your favorite place in Austin? Home!
What's your favorite thing to do with your parents? Watch movies
What's it like performing in front of other kids? It is an amazing feeling. I love it.
What makes you feel confident on stage? Being prepared.
How do you prepare for showtime? Talk to my friends and get excited for the show.
Who is your favorite cast member? Every. Single. Person.
What character makes you laugh the most? Trunchbull of course!
What made you want to get into acting? My mom is a choir teacher and so I have grown up being in musicals.
How has ZACH Theatre helped you develop as an actor? ZACH has given me amazing opportunities. Abe Reybold has taught me so much and I am so grateful.
What's your favorite thing about acting? Making people laugh!
Do you ever get nervous on stage? No
What's one role you'd love to play someday? Evan Hansen!
Tickets for ZACH Theater’s Matilda the Musical, are currently on sale, and the show will run in The Topfer at ZACH until May 12, 2019. Feature photo by Kirk Tuck.