Creating inspirational and thought provoking messages of faith, action, and hope.
Josh Maxwell is a long-time theatre artist, author, and minister.
He began performing at the age of four, joining his grandfather’s Southern Gospel quartet. His love of theatre was born in church drama teams and pageants, discovering educational and community theatre in high school. As an actor he has portrayed roles ranging from Princeton in Avenue Q to Friar Lawrence in Romeo and Juliet, even half the population of Tuna, Texas in an award winning production of Red, White and Tuna.
He’s an accomplished director and designer. His past directing credits include Chicago, JB, Mame, The Lion King Jr., Little Shop of Horrors, The Wizard of Oz, and many more. Administratively he has served in theatre and events management for over a decade, including seven years as the Managing/Artistic Director for Paris Community Theatre in Paris, Texas.
In 2021, Josh created Reverend Jay McPherson based on the evangelists, faith healers, and prophets he met in his youth. The character quickly became a hit on TikTok, garnering multiple viral videos, over 10 million views, and 1.5 million likes. Jay’s comedic message of hope, inclusion, and equality resonated with audiences—especially those who had given up on faith and religion. Although a fictional character, Josh considers Reverend Jay very much a part of his own ministry. In 2024, Josh announced plans to launch Verve Fellowship, an arts based Christian ministry, dedicating itself to Jesus’ final commandment: Love one another.
In addition to his work in theatre and ministry, Josh has worked extensively with schools and organizations to help enrich communities by volunteering and advising. He plays piano and has recorded three albums. He’s also an author, having published four books, including the recently released A Practical Guide to Lighting Design.
