Makenna Ashby

ACTOR

SINGER

DANCER

Who’s That Girl?

I was born and raised in the Rocky Mountains, and love to play dress-up and tell stories for a living.

I am energetic, bubbly, and a ray of sunshine. Many actors and directors I have worked with would describe me as a hard-working, dedicated, focused, and an out- going individual.

I attended Utah Valley University where I graduated with a BFA in Musical Theatre. I graduated Magna Cum Laude, and was also the recipient for the Dean’s Merit Award (Musical Theatre) for the School of the Arts.

I am a lover of taking spontaneous trips to Disney, along with spending time with my puppy Zuko (yes, he is named after Prince Zuko from the best animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender). The Cars movies have the best trilogy, and every one of those movies are masterpieces. I will stand by that.

I’m a girly who likes playing video games with her friends, even if I am the worst at playing them. Please help a girl out, and get her booked. :)

“And remember: with a little Rust-eze — and an insane amount of luck — you too can look like me. Kachow ⚡︎.” - Lightning McQueen

Select Works

MEDIA

HEADSHOT/RESUME

GALLERY

What Are People Saying?

  • Makenna Ashby shines in the role of Katherine. Ashby brings the young dreamer to life and finds the perfect balance for her character, finding the sweet spot between flirtatious and professional. Her chemistry with Briggs was obvious, mostly from the crowd’s cheers, but she really steals the spotlight during her solo. In “Watch What Happens,” Ashby’s vocals are absolute perfection, showcasing her powerhouse voice and expert timing.

    Hayley Westwood, Broadway World (Newsies)

  • As new viewers, we both liked the character of Katherine, and her portrayal by Makenna Ashby. One of the songs written for Katherine, “Watch What Happens”, is a great blend of fast lyrics and a beautiful chorus. Ashby’s mannerisms and delivery portray Katherine’s ambition, hopefulness, anxieties, and endearing youthfulness. Ashby handles the verses’ pattering lyrics clearly dictating and performing through the verse. Ashby even catches the funnier frustrations of a potential crush on Jack Kelly. Ashby’s chemistry with Briggs strikes a good balance so their character’s youthful love story builds throughout the rest of the musical.

    Maggie Dudley, Utah Theatre Bloggers (Newsies)

  • Another standout performance is that of Katherine Plumber, played by Makenna Ashby. I was blown away by her vocal performance throughout the show. Her character, a strong-minded female journalist, was portrayed with authenticity that was felt from the crowd. In her solo performance of "Watch What Happens," the audience was in silent awe after listening to her before breaking into a loud round of applause after the song was over.

    Molly McCoy, Special to the Daily Herald  (Newsies)

“We don’t see the world as it is, we see it as we are”

— Anaïs Nin

CURRENT PROJECTS:

Playing the role of Katherine Plumber at Sundance this summer!