Beth Norton is a comedian, writer and storyteller who works at the intersection of art and advocacy for public systems improvement. Next to performing, one of Beth’s favorite things to do is anything deep in the backcountry. A current resident of Boise Idaho, she supports two cats and is proud to be their heated seat.
Beth spent 14 years in the foster care system and is the survivor of severe early childhood abuse, including sexual abuse, and parental abandonment. Healing with the complex PTSD Beth developed as a result of these experiences has been a long and painful process. She has benefited greatly from EMDR with a childhood trauma specialist, extended time in nature, performance art, community, friends and of course, the unconditional love of the cats. She has a BA in Psychology and an MA in Public Administration.
Beth hopes to connect with other survivors to inspire healing through art and with professionals who can influence the assumptions behind the design of our public systems for a more humane and ultimately effective approach. She serves on multiple child welfare working groups and advisory boards in Idaho. She is the host and director of Story Story Late Night, where she delivers personal stories live and coaches’ others to do the same for an empowering and entertaining experience. She still performs her hard-edged, dark, political comedy once in a while- see Shows & Events tab!
In March 2025, Beth debuted her first written play titled, “The Intersection,” a short comedic sketch meant to draw attention to our chosen mode of transport and state of mind. She is very active in advocacy for transportation options and equitable access. She is currently working on her first book of personal essays titled, “Dear Mary, love letters to my mother,” a story of forgiveness.
