is a professional actor and immersive performer— born, raised, and based in Chicago.

With a background in immersive and ensemble-driven theatre, Maidenwena brings an elevated sense of awareness, adaptability, and spatial intelligence. Embodied by subtle shifts, internal stakes, and a compelling ability to hold tension on stage, on camera, and in immersive performance spaces.

Maidenwena is currently in Theater of the Mind created by David Byrne and Mala Gaonkar, directed by Andrew Scoville. She is the assistant director, rehearsal director, and understudy for this new immersive production in Chicago. Her past stage credits include God’s Work and Feast by Albany Park Theater Project at the Goodman Theatre. Her immersive theater credits include the critically acclaimed, Learning Curve and Port of Entry; both originally devised by Albany Park Theater Project and Third Rail Projects NYC.

She also shares,

“In 2013, I joined my local theater, Albany Park Theater Project, located in Albany Park, one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the US. Since then, I’ve created and performed world-class theatre inspired by the stories of my community. Growing up among diverse cultures naturally sparked my curiosity about others and their complex stories. This drive to amplify diverse voices through performance stems from years of training in physical and devised theater, and site-specific movement. Storytelling is cathartic and transformative. My work varies but always strives for human connection and representation, leaving audiences with more empathy, humor, and joy.”

@maidenwena