EPISODE 4
Finding your voice through theater and vulnerability
With Myranda Wiggins
EMU student Myranda Wiggins shares her path into theater, the challenges of performance, and the confidence that comes from creative practice. This episode focuses on growth, emotional honesty, and using storytelling to connect with others on and off stage.
Key takeaways from this episode
Comedy training gives dramatic actors range — humor is emotional infrastructure, not just timing.
Nervousness = caring: reframing anxiety as a signal of investment is immediately actionable advice.
Theater is everywhere — Miranda’s improv work with police officers is a good example of applied drama beyond the stage.
Performance growth comes from challenge, repetition, and emotional availability.
Theater can function as identity work, not just stage work.
Boundaries and consent practices are central to healthy character work.
Career pathing in theater includes market choice, networking, and fit.
Self-care is a professional discipline.
Show Notes & Resources
Mariah Sage – Miranda’s mentor at EMU; connected Miranda to the podcast and to internship opportunities
Audra McDonald – cited as Miranda’s biggest role model
Hell’s Kitchen – Alicia Keys musical; Miranda saw it in Chicago
The Running Man (2025, Glen Powell) – movie Miranda saw the day of recording; based on Stephen King novel
Viola Davis / Fences – Miranda references the monologue as an example of powerful dramatic writing
EMU Actor Deputy system – cast-elected rep for reporting discomfort without going directly to director; Miranda credits EMU for implementing this
Second City (Chicago) – mentioned as part of the Chicago theater landscape
Chicago Children’s Theater