Ayaan Diop Says There is Dancing, Cake & More Backstage at SCHMIGADOON!

We all know how much hard work goes into the performances that audiences see eight times a week on Broadway. When they're not giving it their all onstage, most performers are backstage doing what it takes to stay happy, healthy, and ready to go between scenes. In Words From The Wings, BroadwayWorld is taking fans behind the curtain to shine a spotlight on the everyday routines that keep Broadway stars moving. 

In this edition, we catch up with Ayaan Diop, who plays Carson in the 2026 Tony-winning Best Musical, Schmigadoon! Below, he takes us backstage at the Nederlander Theatre (with photos by Jennifer Broski) to share some of his favorite backstage moments, must-haves, and more!

With Schmigadoon!, Ayaan Diop is making his Broadway debut at just 9 years old. He recently starred as “Carson” in the Kennedy Center’s Schmigadoon! Other credits include “Blaze & The Monster Machines,” “The Doctor Is In” and “Wonder Pets: In the City.” He is also the main character of two children’s books: "I Am Smart, I Am Blessed, I Can Do ANYTHING!" and "I Am Amazing!"

What’s the first thing you do when you arrive to the theatre?

When I arrive, I give high fives and fist bumps to our security at the Theatre. They’re all really nice to me, they ask me how I’m doing, and they make sure that I’m always safe. I also say hello to our ushers in the lobby.

What’s the last thing you do before you go on stage?

I always say a quiet prayer and talk to God before I go on stage.

What’s your must-have backstage snack?

That’s a hard one. I don’t eat a lot of candy, but I do like to have a few gummy bears or a Bulla Cake. Bulla cake is a Jamaican snack that’s similar to a bread in texture but it’s sweet and round like a circle.

Pre-show ritual that others may think is weird?

I like to do the moon walk and a little bit of dancing to let loose. I have a lot of energy, and I love dancing.

What are five must-haves in your dressing room?

Ok this is tough because I have a lot of really cool things in my dressing room. I’ll say, snacks, colorful lights that my very awesome guardian Bridget put up in the room, water, board/card games to play during down times and my glasses so I can see!

What’s your favorite moment from the show to watch from the wings?

In Act one, I love watching the dance break during the song "Schmigadoon!". Joshua Burrage does this amazing back flip, and I love to watch that part.

What has been your favorite backstage moment in your time with this show so far?

So far, I have a lot of favorites. Everyone is so fun to be around backstage. But the most recent one is when my guardian Bridget gifted me a jacket. I was so shocked and happy! I thought that was really thoughtful of her and I love the colors and the patch she designed.

About Schmigadoon!

Schmigadoon! follows Josh Skinner and Melissa Gimble, a couple who accidentally wander into Schmigadoon – the magical town where every day is a musical. Everybody has a song for everything, the corn is as high as an elephant’s eye, and the only bridge out of town leads nowhere. Melissa and Josh soon discover the only way to escape is by finding true love—which may or may not be with each other.

The production features Isabelle McCalla, Sara Chase, Alex Brightman, Ana Gasteyer, Brad Oscar, McKenzie Kurtz, Ann Harada, Ivan Hernandez, Maulik Pancholy, Max Clayton, and Ayaan Diop. It has now extended to January 2027.

Rounding out the company are Afra Hines, Becca Petersen, Brandon Block, Clyde Alves, Jess LeProtto, Joshua Burrage, Kaleigh Cronin, Keven Quillon, Kimberly Immanuel, Lauralyn Mcclelland, Lyrica Woodruff, Maria Briggs, Miles McNicoll, Nathan Lucrezio, Richard Riaz Yoder, Shina Ann Morris, and Zachary Downer.

Get Schmigadoon! Tickets From $70