Zack Mahon
Degree: BA in Theatre Performance
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: Statesville NC
How did you first get interested in theatre?
I first got into theatre when I was a sophomore in high school. I had always been interested in the arts and stuff as a kid. It was something that always drew me in as I thought it was so fascinating watching actors portray certain characters in film and TV. Sometimes during recess in elementary school, I would get a whole bunch of my friends together and put together and recreate scenes from TV shows or we would create our own shows and movies. It was not until my very first theatre class that I took in high school that I realized that this was something. I got into the theatre class because a friend of mine had taken it, and I went to one of her performances. I was in absolute in awe of the whole thing, so I met with my counselor and signed up that very next day, and I have not looked back since
What kind of career do you hope to have?
I would personally love any career in the theatre/performing world as I am not too picky and I am very open to any possibilities that may come my way. Just while being a student here at UNC Charlotte I have been given the opportunity to work as a performer at the Carolina Renaissance Festival for 2 years now and I have enjoyed every second of it. The main thing I would love to go into would be TV and film acting, but once again, where ever life and the arts take me I will 100% follow it with a smile on my face
What is your favorite thing about the College of Arts + Architecture?
My favorite thing about UNC Charlotte’s College of Arts + Architecture is how friendly and outgoing everyone is. We all have this sense of confidence and community that I have noticed is not that present in other colleges. Everyone is also very supportive of each department and always shows up for one another when needed. I think that the beauty of the arts in general is when there is a call to action everyone is ready to jump onto it.
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?
As stated earlier, I have worked at the Carolina Renaissance Festival for two seasons now, and it has been such a unique and exciting experience. It has helped me grow so much not only in my confidence as a performer but in my acting as well as. The Renaissance festival has such a unique style and feel to it that you will never get anyway else, it really does test you and your love for the craft but as many of my great professors have taught me actors must find a way to adapt to take on any challenge or experience. I truly do not think I would be the actor I am today without the experiences and knowledge I have gained while working at the Festival. I am also vice president and secretary of the Queen City Charlotte Circus Club that me and my friends created as a way to give back to our community and to help out anyone who is interested in the circus world and its performances styles. It has been so funny meeting all different sorts of people with all of their different knowledge on the circus crafts.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
I love to hangout with my friends and family when I get a break from my busy schedule as they are a part of the reason I love to do my craft as well.