is an experienced stage actor, theater deviser, immersive performer, and teaching artist— born, raised, and based in Chicago. She shares, “I joined my local theater in 2013, located in Albany Park, one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the US. Since then, I’ve created world-class theater 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 theater, ethnographic research, and site-specific movement.

By placing marginalized narratives on stage, I aim to offer audiences new perspectives. Storytelling is cathartic, much like art itself—it’s transformative and fosters social change. My work is varied but always strives for human connection and representation, leaving audiences with more empathy, humor, and joy.”

@maidenwena

Maidenwena’s theatrical debut came in God’s Work (2014) by Albany Park Theater Project at the Goodman Theatre. A decade later, she has been in the critically acclaimed, Port of Entry; another immersive theater experience by Albany Park Theater Project and Third Rail Projects NYC. Not only is she a swing performer for the show— mastering 5 different character tracks, but she also serves as a rehearsal director to provide movement direction for the ensemble. Her other credits include Feast on stage at the Goodman and Learning Curve; an immersive theater production. When she is not performing, Maidenwena loves crafting, walking her dog, and making scallion pancakes.