Alumni Spotlight: Maddie Heinimann

When were you involved with TAG?
I have been involved with TAG since 2016. I was first introduced to TAG through Willie when he directed my middle school productions. From the very beginning, working with him sparked my love for theatre and made me want to become more involved. That initial experience led me to participate in TAG’s summer productions, where I quickly found a second home and continued growing with the program year after year.

What shows were you a part of?
During my time with TAG, I was fortunate to be a cast member in many productions. Some of my favorite roles included Mrs. Potts in Beauty and the Beast Jr., Rafiki in The Lion King, Sandy in Grease, and Donna in Mamma Mia!. After aging out of TAG as a performer, I transitioned into a staff role and worked my way up to becoming a Director. I had the incredible opportunity to direct Into the Woods Jr., Grease: School Edition, and Something Rotten Jr. Each of these productions helped me grow as a leader and educator and confirmed my passion for directing and working with young performers and children.

What are you up to now?
I am currently a sophomore Early and Primary Education major with a minor in Theatre at the University of Scranton. I am actively involved in my school’s student-led theatre company, LIVA Arts Company, where I participate in two musicals each year. While I am not pursuing musical theatre as my major, I continue to use the skills I developed through TAG in both my academic and creative pursuits, allowing theatre to remain an important part of my life.

What are your favorite memories of TAG?
Some of my favorite memories from TAG include meeting so many supportive and inspiring people. Whether it was bonding with fellow cast members during camp or working alongside the incredible staff, TAG always felt like a welcoming and encouraging community that pushed everyone to be their best.

What does TAG mean to you? 
TAG is so much more to me than just a theatre program. It played a major role in shaping who I am by providing an encouraging space to learn, grow, and express myself. Through TAG, I built confidence, leadership skills, and a strong appreciation for collaboration—skills that carried with me beyond the program. Because of this foundation, I went on to receive a Montclair State Foxy Award for my performance as Donna in Mamma Mia! With my high school, as well as an award for Outstanding Lighting Design for Grease Jr. as a director. TAG fostered a lifelong love for theatre that continues to influence my life today.

What did you take away from your experience?
One of the most important lessons I took away from my experience at TAG is something Willie always says: “Never leave anything on the shelf, and always give it your all.” This mindset has stayed with me and continues to influence how I approach not only performances, but also my academics, leadership roles, and everyday life. TAG taught me the value of hard work, commitment, and passion, lessons that extend far beyond the stage.