Ava Jessie Childs

Ava Childs is an actor, director, and theatre artist based in Madison, WI.

With a B.S. in progress from UW Madison in Theatre and Drama (Acting) and Art, their training in the many fields of theatre have culminated into a multi-faceted artist and collaborator.

With a central focus on creating space for queer and gender-nonconforming identities in theatre, they aim to create spaces that feel affirming, nonjudgemental, and free for experimentation. Beyond this, their work with ensemble-based movement and collaborative community building creates a unique blend of efficiency and professionalism with joyful art making at its core.

Photography by Jocelyn Bold

Actor, Director

Ava Jessie Childs (they/them)

Directing Works Gallery

Alice by Heart

Photography by KK Blau

Directed by Ava Jessie Childs

Spring 2026

By Duncan Sheik, Steven Sater, and Jessie Nelson

InterMission Theatre Company

Dance Nation

Photography by Beau Meyer

Directed by Audrey Lauren Standish

Assistant Directed by Ava Jessie Childs

Summer 2025

By Clare Barron

UW Madison Theatre and Drama

"Beyond their talent, Ava’s kindness made a huge impact. They were consistently supportive, patient, and encouraging. They made everyone feel valued and capable. Their positivity motivated the entire cast and crew to work harder and trust themselves more. They lead with empathy just as much as vision, and that balance is something special. Ava doesn’t just direct a show, they create an experience. Their vision for Alice by Heart was bold and clear, their execution was careful and thoughtful, and their leadership brought out the best in everyone involved. The world truly needs more people like them. People who combine creativity, professionalism, technical skill, openness, and genuine kindness. Any production under their direction will be meaningful, powerful, and made with care."

—Alex Sheremeta, Actor
“The attention Ava brought to detail and creating the world of the story we lived in was so delicate and precise. I believe Ava always fostered a creative environment where us actors could feel like we could take risks, be vulnerable, and make mistakes without feeling the pressure of perfectionism. Not only was Ava successful in making the rehearsal process feel collaborative but they were also an excellent leader and team builder. Without Ava, my experience in this show would have felt incomplete. With whatever they are tasked with, Ava shows up 100% every single day, giving it their all, while also reminding us what theater is all about; sharing stories and having fun.”

—Jennifer Duarte Castillo, Actor
“From the first rehearsal to closing night, Ava led with clarity, generosity, and deep artistic integrity. What struck me most was the room they created. It was thoughtful, safe, and rigorously imaginative — a space where actors, musicians, designers, and crew felt empowered to take brave risks and give themselves fully to the work. Ava’s leadership isn’t loud or ego-driven; it’s rooted in care, curiosity, and a profound respect for collaboration. As a result, the artistry that emerged was fearless and deeply connected.”

—Clare Haden, UW Faculty/Dialect Coach
"Ava’s ability to create a safe, efficient, and loving work environment is nothing short of incredible. Months before our main set of rehearsals, the cast and crew had a full calendar of everything that we would most likely be doing on a given day all the way up until the runs of shows ended and any changes were communicated immediately. Ava’s focus on a collaborative work effort created a space in which the actors, crew, and pit had the freedom to perform in a way that expressed themselves and their own directorial vision. Their ability to gauge when an actor needs guidance and when to let them shine is remarkable and earns my personal respect as one of my favorite directors I’ve ever worked with."

—Anonymous, Actor
"As someone who was in both rehearsal rooms and production meetings with Ava, I can vouch for the fact that they took on so much more than a typical director role dictates, and exceeded expectations on all fronts. Their organization is inspiring, and their passion and vision is so clear. I felt more comfortable in Ava's rehearsal room than in any previous space, as they were always checking in, getting to know everyone on a personal level, and easily adapting their blocking and choreography for the comfort of everyone involved. Working on Alice By Heart was a process filled with passion and love, and we all have Ava to thank for creating that environment and stoking that flame."

—Anonymous, Actor/Designer
“Ava is extremely organized as a director, being very on top of everything required as a director. They are always quick to respond and easy to talk to, which are essential traits to have as a director.”

—Mitchell Anderson, Stage Manager

Contact Me

Photography by Beau Meyer