Life and Work with Devyn Machado

Today we’d like to introduce you to Devyn Machado.

Devyn, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was lucky enough to grow up with direct access to various forms of art. Movies, musicals, concerts, etc. Art has always been a passion of mine. In eighth grade, I remember sitting in the audience of the musical that my high school was putting on and feeling overcome with the desire of wanting to do technical theatre. I joined stagecraft as soon as I entered the tenth grade and have been working on shows ever since. I majored in Theatre, Film, and Television in college for three years. Fearless was being conceptualized by one of my close friends around the time I chose to leave my college program. I was assistant stage manager for their first show, Romeo and Juliet, in 2014. Now, it’s five years later and I have continued to be an active board member as the Technical Director for the company.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I believe every road has challenges. Fearless has given me the opportunity to work and grow with so many amazing people. It is not always easy. Some take advantage and make poor decisions but also so many are able to discover themselves and there is nothing more rewarding. Never stop fighting for what you believe in. There will be people who don’t agree with you, or even understand, but if you never stop believing in yourself. your dreams are always within your reach. My main advice, which is also our promise and challenge to both ourselves and others, is to always Be Fearless.

Please tell us about Fearless Theatre.
I believe that theatre should be a safe space for everyone. Space is free of hate, judgment, and harassment. A space to explore, to learn, and to grow. Fearless has always strived to create this. We choose to produce shows with a statement. Shows that push boundaries. Shows with heart. We tell the story. We tell our stories. Fearless is a promise. Fearless is a challenge. Fearless is a family.

There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that a lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
Being involved in Theatre has given me the opportunity to be involved in a highly collaborative community. I am consistently able to work with people who inspire, teach, and listen. Of course, not everyone has the same goals and visions but I think those who believe in their art and message are drawn into the same safe spaces and are able to learn from each other.

Contact Info:

• Website: fearless-theatre.ticketleap.com
• Email: fearlesstheatre@gmail.com
• Instagram: fearlesstheatre
• Facebook: fearlesstheatredenver

Image Credit:
Faith Ford Photography, Shepherd Overcash, Noah Begley, Jacob Krider Photography

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