Spotlight On: Madelyn Porter

Madelyn Porter (she/her) is an accomplished actor, writer, director, curator, the Founding Artistic Director of Mad's World, LLC., and currently serves as The Community and Engagement Manager for the Detroit Public Theatre.

Madelyn Porter

How did you get started in the arts?

My father was a jazz musician and my mother an educator and lover of the arts.

If you could direct/produce one show, what would it be, and why?

“5 on the Black Hand Side” - Hasn’t been done in a very long time. Good writing. Profound characters.

If you could play one character in all of theatre or film, who would it be and why?

Rafaki in “The Lion King.” So powerful and “yummy.”

Name two artistic role models and why you look up to them.

My father, Albert L. Porter was a melting pot of musical genius. He fostered my comedic overtures and featured me everywhere he went. His array of musical genres and rhythms were instilled in my theatrics from a very young age.

Catherine Dunham and her dance method embody the spirit of every character and storytelling moment in my repertoire.

What did you want to be when you were a child? Are you fulfilling that dream?

I wanted to be a performer. My parents made sure me and my siblings were exposed to the arts and education. Hence…education through the arts has and always will be my passion. My dream is ongoing. I am fulfilled every time a child embraces me after a performance and says something like…”Can I help free you from the master?” I’m fulfilled every time an audience member says, “Wow! I learned so much.”

What is your artistic guilty pleasure?

Horror Films

What role/show/experience on your resume is most memorable and why?

Gem of the Ocean - "Aunt Ester" embodies so much history. I must do her again and again to capture her true essence.

What is your dream for the Michigan Arts Community?

I want to see more professional theatre companies in Detroit and throughout the state. I dream funding will be more accessible and more jobs available for artists.

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