Stageworthy

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by actor, singer, and producer Michael Esposito II. Michael discusses the challenges and rewards of mounting Daniel MacIvor's solo play, Monster, which he is producing and performing in Kelowna, B.C. He shares the creative process of integrating projections and music into the show to make it feel more like an immersive "monster experience" than a traditional one-person play. Michael also talks about his background in Toronto and New York, the evolving theatre scene in Kelowna, and his other work in the Okanagan Valley, including themed jazz shows at a local speakeasy winery. This episode explores: Bringing Daniel MacIvor’s Monster to life in Kelowna The creative freedom and risks of solo performance Using projection in live theatre Building independent theatre outside major city centres The importance of community and adaptability for artists The joy and discipline of performing across genres—from MacIvor to musical theatre