Stay Ready: Madaline Langston on Art, Representation, and Community

From the moment she first experienced the magic of Annie on Broadway, Madaline knew she wanted to be part of a world where stories move people and possibility feels tangible. Her journey has taken her from the electric wings of Macbeth to performing original work at the Maryland Renaissance Festival, from national tours to classrooms filled with young artists discovering their own voices.

In this interview, Madaline reflects on representation, resilience, and the transformative power of creative community. Her story is one of preparation meeting purpose, of being the “only one” and turning that moment into an opening for many more to follow.

Was there a moment or show that made you want to get into the arts yourself?  What was it and why?

The first Broadway Musical I saw in New York was Annie. It touched me on a level that made me want to be a part of that world, and I never shook that feeling. It was my introduction to the ‘hard-knock life’ of the arts—a journey that is challenging, but what an incredible ride it has been!

What was the first show you ever did, what do you remember most about it?

Over the years, I have had two passions: one, fashion Runway/print, and the second, the art of acting on stage and film. Both stand out because of the community it built. It was Macbeth, and I remember the electric feeling of the wings—that specific mix of nerves and communal purpose. It was the first time I realized that a story is only as strong as the ensemble telling it.” I was blessed to get a spot in the Shakespeare Theatre Young Company and got the lead as Lady Macbeth. Wow! The Shakespeare theatre took this tour to schools in DC and MD. The reaction of the kids seeing me in that role was a game-changer. This production showed me the power of theater to bridge gaps and open up possibilities that seemed closed to some.

Was there a particular production or moment that sparked your love for theatre? What made it so meaningful for you?

I’ll never forget my first year at the Maryland Renaissance Festival. Being the only Black performer in the company at that time was a unique challenge, but it became a beautiful opportunity when I was asked to perform my own one-woman show. That moment was so meaningful because it was about visibility and validation. I focused on my training and performed with a sense of joy that felt revolutionary. It was the first time I felt the power of being seen for exactly who I am as an artist.

What do you enjoy the most about teaching in the creative arts?  Is there a specific moment that highlights why you continue working in teaching positions?

I stay in teaching because of the ‘Flip the Script’ moments—when a student realizes they don’t just have to audition for roles, they can create them. Seeing a young writer find their voice is a reminder that while the life of an artist has its ups and downs, it’s one ride we don’t have to take alone.

What does it mean to you about being apart of a creative community?

To me, there is an excitement working within a creative community that gets it. It’s the shared understanding that every contribution is essential, whether it’s a designer in the costume shop stitching together a garment, an actor stepping onstage/film set to embody the character, or a model wearing a new creation. It’s an understanding that we are all interconnected, and we are working toward a transformative moment for the audience.

Which artists inspire you?  Which of their work resonates with you and why?

I am deeply inspired by the late James Earl Jones; his command of Shakespearean roles set a standard for excellence and presence that I carry with me. Audra McDonald is another trailblazer whose versatility across stage and screen has paved the way for so many of us. I also have immense love for the body of work of Phylicia Rashad. Specifically, her work on The Cosby Show was revolutionary—it broke so many stereotypes about African American families and presented a nuanced, professional, and relatable image of our community to the world. These artists didn’t just perform; they shifted the culture.

Why is representation in the community important to you? How has being representation for others been fulfilling to you?

Throughout my career, I have been honored to portray historical figures like Sojourner Truth and Alice Dunbar. Sharing the stories of our ancestors is a wonder and a responsibility. However, it is equally exciting to see Black people portrayed today as modern personalities—creating corporations, in the board rooms, educators, as authors, and leading in media. The go’s on. This shift from historical struggle to contemporary excellence changes the perspective of what is possible. It moves the narrative from where we’ve been to where we are going.

How have diverse stories helped shape your perspective?  Do you have recommendations to share for readers at home?

Diverse stories have been the architecture of my imagination. They’ve shaped my perspective by proving that our narratives are vast, ranging from fairy tales to scientific brilliance and groundbreaking literature. For families looking to explore these themes at home, I recommend: The Princess and the Frog: This story is a beautiful reminder that while ‘wishing’ is a start, it is the tenacity and heart you put into your dreams that make them real. It’s a modern classic that centers our joy. Hidden Figures: This is a vital example of ‘contemporary excellence’ in a historical setting. It shows our youth that we have always been the architects of the future, even when the world wasn’t ready to acknowledge it. A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry: As the first Black woman to have a play performed on Broadway, Hansberry’s voice is essential. Her ability to capture the nuance of the Black experience with such grace and grit taught me that our everyday lives are worthy of the grandest stages. These stories do more than entertain; they validate our identities and broaden the horizons for every person in the audience.”

What is your advice to young Black performers or technicians getting started in the arts today?

Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. Lean into your training, keep your ‘union cards’ (and joyful spirit) polished, and remember that if you are the ‘only one’ in a room, it is an opportunity to be the ‘first’ of many.

What artistic medium do you love most and why?

I am an artist through and through. I love it all. We need everyone to tell a powerful story. Whether it’s the rhythm of a bilingual script or the visual choreography of a tour, I find joy in the synergy of all theatrical elements coming together.”

Is there a dream show or role you hope to be part of one day, and why does it resonate with you?

What upcoming projects do you have on the horizon that families can enjoy?

Currently, I am directing an original TYA bilingual show, “Rainy Day Rhythms /Ritmos de la Lluvia that is on tour at four Alexandria schools, for Theatre for the Very Young audiences in March and May 1st, “A Sidewalk Stroll- Un Paseo Por La Acera” for Northern Virginia Family Services.

Madaline Langston ( Director of Programming ) has been with Encore Stage & Studio’s It’s Elementary Program for over a decade and is currently Director of Programming. Madaline is a graduate of the National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts Advanced Theatre program in Washington DC. She began developing her improvisation and classical skills performing at the Maryland Renaissance Festival. Madaline later joined the Shakespeare Theatre Company, followed by two National Tours with the John F. Kennedy Center’s programs for children. As a member of the SAG-AFTRA and Actors’ Equity, Madaline has worked on films, industrials, regional and national commercials.

Stay Ready: Madaline Langston on Art, Representation, and Community

Encore Stage & Studio

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