Maryanne Boaz started her career in California's Bay Area in a wide array of theatrical productions—from musical theater and opera to devised pieces and Shakespeare— she was eager to absorb and contribute to the vibrant theater community. Her time in California was primarily spent at Cinnabar Theater and Roustabout Theater, where she worked in both their professional ensemble and apprentice training programs. Notably, Maryanne was honored as a "Musical Theater Finalist" at The Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival.

In 2021, Maryanne relocated to Chicago to pursue a BFA in Musical Theater at CCPA at Roosevelt University where she discovered a home and platform to bring stories to life. The rigorous curriculum and supportive mentors fueled her newfound passion for writing and directing. In 2022, she premiered her first original production, Who We Are, in a workshop at CCPA; delving into generational trauma exploring the history and shaping of flawed parents, Who We Are sparked a new life in Maryanne to share her words and take leadership. In addition, Maryanne also produced and directed a large ensemble cabaret, The Heartbreak Cabaret, directed a staged reading of John Maclay’s new play, Lily and the Pirates, and worked backstage in costuming and run crew on a multitude of shows at CCPA. 

Through the summer of 2023, Maryanne wrote and co-composed with Elizabeth Boaz Jenny; a New Musical, questioning what keeps a family together through the trials of imperfect human emotion and grief. The following December, Maryanne produced and directed a staged reading for trusted mentors who helped guide the script’s development. In March 2024, Jenny; a New Musical went into full swing in a student workshop; Maryanne worked hard to collaborate with student actors, artists, and designers to breathe life into this piece. Maryanne’s confident in the importance of Jenny and continues to work on polishing and sharing her work.

Currently, Maryanne’s in the midst of organizing staged readings for her latest plays, Simon Says and For a Moment; Maryanne’s excited to take the words off the page and play with the actors and characters. She will produce Simon Says in the near future. 

In the fall, Maryanne will produce and direct a student workshop of For a Moment, collaborating with Bernadette Brockman as music director. Her goal is to foster deeper collaboration between musicians, dancers, and actors, Maryanne will foster a process of story-based improvisation blending music, text, and dance. The improvisation and partnership of dance and music will be guided by an original script that all artists perform and tell. For a Moment challenges traditional linear stories by intertwining memory, assumed realities, and a feared future through movement and music. 

Maryanne’s determination will drive her projects forward in her last year at CCPA as she continues to share her voice and stories with the Chicago theater community. Maryanne continues to evolve as an artist, driven by resilience storytelling and a dedication to cultivating impactful theater experiences.