Madison Joy LeFever

Strategic Arts Professional • Creative Director • Live Entertainment Photographer

Early Life

I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, was raised by two parents who worked in public health, and both passed at the hands of addiction. From a young age, my parents cherished my curiosity—and since I can remember the arts have been my lifeline.

Theatre

I earned my B.A. in Theatre Production from Western Washington University in 2023, where I collaborated with professors and directors from across the country through assistant directing and creative production. My work has fostered a deep curiosity for new works and the ways contemparary storytelling can inspire connection, strengthen communities, and contribute to collective well-being.

I co-composed a new musical Untethered, premiered it at the 2023 Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival and was a Semi-Finalist at the 2023 O’Neill National Musical Theatre Conference.

As a performer, I am drawn to roles that invite audiences to reconsider whose stories are centered, whose experiences are valued, and what possibilities exist within the human experience.

My theatre portfolio.

Photography

In 2021, I began a project called “DIY Bellingham”, capturing local musicians throughout Whatcom County. Today, I can say I’ve had the pleasure of capturing some of music’s most influential artists. (Sabrina Carptenter, boygenius, Lizzy McAlpine, Hobo Johnson, and TeZaTalks.)

My most treasured projects are capturing actors and design alike. My home is the theatre and there is nothing more rewarding than being given the oppurtinity to capture hard work, vulnerability, and dedication. It fills my cup. I spent 2022-2026 capturing archival and publicity material for my alma matter, Western Washington University.

Client Highlights: The Gorge Amphitheatre, Mount Baker Theatre, Western Washington University, & The Wild Buffalo House of Music.

My photography portfolio’s: Theatre | Live Music

Presently

I’m currently based in Pittsburgh, PA— an MA candidate within Carnegie Mellon University’s Arts Management program, most curious about optimizing digital media strategy and media operations to drive sustainable audience development.

At my core, I am inspired by work that centers ethos. I've led an array of initiatives across professional environments–public health and arts alike–prioritizing curiosity, innovation, and collaboration. I'm invigorated by championing creative risk, fostering resilience and connecting communities through strategic and meaningful arts programming.