ZiYonna Brown

Hometown: Richmond, VA and Charlotte, NC

BA in Theatre and a Minor in Psychology

2026

How did you first get interested in Theatre?

I’m going to be honest, I can’t recall a specific moment where I fell in love with acting/moving making in general. It was more of just an unconscious love for the stories this craft was capable of telling. Falling in love with this art for me, was a series of everyday life moments clashing together with the purpose of understanding its own meaning.

What kind of career do you hope to have?

I will be an actor in tv/film, that is well known for being professional and passionate about the work. I hope to have a long and full career telling stories that mean something, that impact and touch people, including myself. 

What is your favorite thing about the Department of Theatre?

The freedom provided here to not only explore, but to fail and grow.

Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?

I am the student theatre representative for the CoA+A Equity Council. This council’s main job is to advocate student priorities to faculty/staff/college leaders. We want to know what you’re thinking and experiencing! I am also a part of the UNC Charlotte Improv group as Team Captain, film club, and Dungeons and Dragons discourse! Those are more of just fun production/after class activities that keep me busy, focussed, and constantly sharp! 

Can you talk about the benefits of being a scholarship recipient?

I have a few that have helped me a lot through lessening the heavy financial burden of college expenses, and I am so very grateful for them. They have allowed me to keep my focus on the work I came here to do, rather than having to constantly worry about whether or not I’ll be able to afford my classes. Another great benefit is the extended financial/ job/ supply opportunities they have provided to me and other hard working students. Lastly, it has lessened the money burden my parents had placed on them from me attending college. This is something that’s dear to me, because it means there’s more room for my three little brothers to be covered for their own college/career journeys.

When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?

Play video games, watch movies, play Dungeons and Dragons, listen to music, and have a good laugh.