Daily Inspiration: Meet Madelyn J. Smith

Today we’d like to introduce you to Madelyn J. Smith. 

Hi Madelyn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
As a surly and dispassionate middle schooler, I found myself enrolled in both a theatre and a choir class against my will. I begged to be removed. Surely there was something a little less embarrassing I could be a part of. What about team sports? Or Spanish? Maybe technology? Please, anything but this. Alas, all other classes were full, leaving me stuck for the semester. They could enforce attendance, sure, but they certainly couldn’t make me enjoy the classes. So, I practiced rolling my eyes and sighing dramatically (I was quite prolific if I do say so myself). I kept my nose in the air and maintained my “cooler than thou” status. At some point, this too-cool-for-school girl looked around and saw her peers laughing, playing games, and seemingly enjoying themselves. So, my nose slowly made its way back to neutral. I tentatively stepped off my high horse. I traded sighs for songs, and eye rolls for eye contact. My steely demeanor thawed. I listened, I engaged, and, dare I say it, I had fun. I began to bloom. These classes became an escape; an opportunity to step outside of myself, to explore feelings, and push boundaries in safe, productive ways. By the end of the semester, I was hooked. I spent the rest of my middle school and high school careers devouring music and theatre in whatever capacity I could get my hands on: plays, musicals, jazz choir, chamber choir. You name it, I was in it. I was ravenous. 

My artistic hunger eventually led me to Spokane, WA where I studied music at Gonzaga University. There, I allowed my artistry to move beyond myself; it was no longer merely a means to connect and escape. It was there I discovered just how powerful the arts are to communities and the people within. How necessary it is for us to experience storytelling in all its forms. How inspiring this work can be both for myself and others. 

After graduating, I moved back to Colorado to find a “real job.” This may come as a shock, but a career in the arts is not known for its stability. What room is there for passion when bills need to be paid? I put my art aside and instead focused on a career. I told myself it was time to grow up. It was time to leave the hobbies of my childhood behind in favor of more “adult” pursuits. Years passed, and unsurprisingly, I was miserable. So, as a New Year’s resolution, I signed up for an Introduction to Acting class through the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. One class in, and I was a goner. 

I honed my craft as a Lewis-Myers Scholar through the Denver Center where I had the opportunity to sharpen my skills in acting on stage, on film, and in voice-over from some of the area’s most renowned teachers. I now work professionally as an actor, musician, voiceover artist, writer, and director throughout Colorado. In 2020, my directorial debut “U-Bus” won Best Picture in Denver’s 48 Hour Film Project as well as Best Ensemble for myself and my fellow actors. I’ve worked with theatres small and large and find joy in every single project I’ve been fortunate enough to be a part of. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to practice my craft and share stories that move me with audiences – and even more significantly, to share stories that move them. It is my mission to be a truth-teller and to use my artistry and storytelling as vehicles for connection and change. 

I am constantly on the hunt for my next passion project. Fortunately for me, Colorado is never in short supply. If you’re interested in following my creative pursuits (or just want to see pictures of my dog), check out my website (madelynjsmith.com) or follow me on Instagram (@madelynjsmith)! 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Anyone who pursues the life of an artist knows that the road is never smooth. 

You work hard. You prepare. You over-prepare. You get two minutes to prove your worth. Despite the terror and the pressure, you shine. You lose yourself in your work. You leave with your head high, proud of what you gave. Then, you get an email reading, “Better luck next time.” 

As an actor, “no” becomes the norm. To act is to live in a near-constant state of heartbreak. I cannot begin to share just how painful it is to crack apart your ribs, bare your tender, beating heart, expose the rawest, most vulnerable piece of you only to hear “thanks, but no thanks.” To have someone reject your work. To reject you. 

So, why do I do it? Why do I subject myself to the heartache and rejection? Why give my voice and body to an industry that pays pennies, that constantly asks for more? It’s simple, really; I do it because there is nothing else like it. I do it because it is my only shot at a happy, meaningful life. I do it because art is the greatest love of my life. While there may be struggle (and lots of it), there is also unparalleled passion and joy. There is connection and inspiration. There is love. The road might not be smooth, but this is a life I am immensely proud of. I’ll embrace the failures because they mean that I am trying. To pursue a life you love is the bravest, most important thing you can do, and I will fight tooth and nail to live it. 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a performance artist and storyteller in nearly every form. I am an actor, musician, voiceover artist, writer, and director. I excel in projects from classical to modern and everything in-between. The ability to uncover the truth and humanity in every role, as well as create meaningful connections with co-creators and audiences, makes me enormously proud. Knowing that my work has the ability to create real, tangible change is both humbling and inspiring. My approach to my work is raw and brimming with life. It is my immense passion, impressive work ethic, sunny disposition, and undeniable vulnerability and authenticity in my storytelling that sets me apart. Rainer Maria Wilke said, “Where I create, there I am true.” I will create, and create, and create in search of truth in all its forms despite the obstacles. And it is for that, more than anything else, that I am most proud. 

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
It is my fervent belief that artists are never done with their work. There will always be more to learn, more opportunities for growth. I believe it is a privilege and a responsibility to continually hone your craft throughout your career, even once you’ve “made it” (whatever that means.) The best advice I can offer artists is to take every class, every workshop, and every lecture that is accessible to you – and don’t be afraid to ask about scholarships! Attend as many shows as you can. Rush tickets at big theatres for a cheap way to see theatre. Grab a blanket and enjoy the free concerts and performances at parks throughout the summer. Become a regular at open-mic night. 

Once you’re in these settings, take note of the people around you. Who do you connect with? Who shares your artistic philosophies? Whose work inspires you? Who pushes and challenges you? Who makes you feel safe? Find those folks – they are your future co-creators, collaborators, mentors, and friends. It is these connections that make Denver’s artistic scene the thriving, empowering artistic community it is. 

Most of all, though, I implore you to live. Go fall in love, get your heart broken, and fall in love all over again. Travel. Kiss your friends’ faces. Ask the stranger at the laundromat how their day was and actually listen. Make mistakes. Live a life bravely and without fear. It will lead you to community and will enrichen your work – not to mention, it will enrichen you. Go live a life you’re proud of and share it with the people who make it better. 

Contact Info:

• Email: madelynjsmithactor@gmail.com
• Website: https://www.madelynjsmith.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madelynjsmith/?hl=en 

Image Credits
Taylor Heshmati
Shannon Altner
Debe Hultgren
Party People Productions