Faces of ITS: Josie Maw

Josie Maw

How has theatre impacted your life?
Before high school theatre, I lacked a community. I wasn’t alone, but I didn’t have a group of people I felt I really loved. My high school theatre community has given me a family and a place I never thought I would find. Additionally, it has provided me avenues for advocacy and leadership I would never have pursued before.

What is one lesson you’ve learned from theatre?
In theatre, through auditions and competitions, the most common answer you’ll hear is “no.” Everyone is always comparing themselves to everyone else. While this can sometimes inspire healthy competition, it can also be degrading for self-worth. One lesson I learned from theatre is that someone else’s strength is not your weakness. Where someone else excels is not where you fall short. Everyone has different strengths, and everyone brings new creativity and light to the table.

What has been your favorite theatre experience so far?
I really adore being a State Thespian Officer, but probably my favorite theatre experience was the rehearsal process of the musical Bring It On [at school]. This show forced the ensemble to work together in ways we never had before. The ensemble of Bring It On had to trust each other with our lives. We learned cheer stunts. It was sort of brutal but so rewarding when we were flying people onstage.

Who is your theatre hero?
It’s a bit clichéd, but I adore Lin-Manuel Miranda. To me, his story represents self-actualization and fulfillment. He worked for everything he achieved and is now one of the best-known figures in the theatre community. I also love the diversity and skill of his works. He’s not your generic “Broadway Guy,” but he’s so incredible because he’s unique.

What theatrical character or show best describes your life?
I think Frozen describes my life well. When the rest of her world shuts down in fear, Anna carries on her way. She is driven by passion and love, and that’s the way I see myself. Elsa is beautiful and powerful, but she is reactive and afraid. I think if everyone lived their lives like Anna, the world would be a better place.