About Madeline Nelson

There are a few places where I feel the most at home. On stage with a script in hand, behind the scenes ready to create, and hands-on in a classroom with minds that are open and ready to learn. I am very lucky to have been presented with many opportunities to do what I love. I recognize the value of the arts and want to shine a light on it for young people.

I am a recent graduate from California State University, Fresno. I graduated summa cum laude with my BA in Theatre Arts with a general emphasis in Spring 2023. I find myself on stage most of the time, performing and working with wonderful directors. I participated in two Theatre for Young Audiences tours where we brought a fully realized production to elementary schools all over the county. I also enjoy design and stage management, which I have participated in with my alma mater’s student-run theatre department and with the university’s mainstage seasons.

Now, I am a graduate student at Arizona State University studying to obtain my MFA in Theatre for Youth and Community. Outside of my studies, I am very involved in my community. I perform and work with local theatre groups and I work as a substitute high school teacher. For the past three summers, I have worked as a summer school teacher leading STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) classes at local elementary schools. I also offer improvisation workshops to local middle and high schools and work closely with my city’s school district however I can.

Ethical Statement

I am committed to recognizing diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and anti-racism and applying these concepts in my work as a theatre maker and educator as well as in my personal life. While I hold a strong passion for the craft of theatre and understanding the field, I also firmly believe in understanding learning science as a vital tool for effective and meaningful higher education.

In all aspects of my work, I believe:

  • in lifelong learning.

  • that in order to produce quality work and make meaningful connections, I must consistently hold myself and others accountable.

  • that bravery is the first step to learning.

  • in space and grace.