Stageworthy

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes Aaron Joel Craig (Same Boat Theatre) and Stephanie Hope Lawlor (Rooks Theatre) to discuss their co-production of Ibsen’s A Doll’s House in Hamilton. This episode explores: Reimagining A Doll’s House as a story for 2025 audiences The intersection of feminism, capitalism, and personal freedom Building independent theatre in Hamilton’s evolving arts scene The power of site-specific and intimate performance spaces Collaboration between Rooks Theatre and Same Boat Theatre Creating sustainability and opportunity for indie theatre artists How theatre can thrive outside major city centers Turning creative frustration into community impact Guests:

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes Will Parry, actor, singer, and content creator based in Toronto. Known for his work as a musical theatre performer and social media consultant for artists and theatre companies, Will shares insights into how creatives can better express their authentic selves online while building stronger connections with audiences. This episode explores: Balancing social media and theatre careers Authenticity and “brand voice” for artists and theatre companies Finding confidence in sharing your work online Discovering puppetry through The Wizard of Oz and beyond The art of cabaret and creating personal connection on stage Writing for young audiences and exploring digital culture through theatre and more! Guest:

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes Steven Hao, actor, director, and artistic director of Puckers Theatre Company. Currently in his second season at the Stratford Festival, Steven shares his journey from Victoria, BC, to the national stage, performing in acclaimed productions like Anne of Green Gables, Forgiveness, Salesman in China, and Romeo and Juliet. This episode explores: Steven’s journey from improv and high school musicals to the Stratford Festival Building a company (Puckers) to champion new voices and sustainable theatre The need for long-term investment in Canadian plays and playwrights Artistic leadership and the challenges of developing the next generation of ADs Balancing performing, directing, and leadership And much more Guest:

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by Emily Dix, artistic executive director of Bygone Theatre and the lead behind their mixed use affordable arts space, The Bridge. Emily shares the company’s journey from its beginnings in classic theatre to its evolution into original Canadian works that blend vintage aesthetics with contemporary themes. She discusses her creative process, the importance of atmosphere and design, and the challenges and rewards of running an independent theatre company. This episode explores: The evolution of Bygone Theatre Building immersive, design-driven theatre experiences Challenges and opportunities of running an indie company in Toronto The role of aesthetics, nostalgia, and storytelling in Emily’s work Directing, producing, and writing for small-scale theatre Fostering community and mentorship in the theatre scene Guest:

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

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by Michael Kras, playwright, director, and one of Canada’s busiest magic designers. Michael has designed magic and illusions for theatres across the country and is the resident magic and illusions lead for the North American tour of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. He also joins the Tarragon Theatre’s Greenhouse Residency to develop his new solo play Love Me Back, a piece that blends sleight-of-hand magic with storytelling. This episode explores: Michael’s path from magician to playwright and director Integrating magic into theatre in meaningful ways The role of magic design in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child The Hamilton theatre scene and its challenges Writing for young audiences and why those stories matter The creation of his magic book Synthesis and Secrets Developing his new play Love Me Back at Tarragon’s Greenhouse Residency Guest:

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by Chloë Whitehorn, who is currently based in Kingston, Ontario. Chloë, a former actor, discusses her journey to becoming a prolific writer, focusing on themes of women's rights and mental health. She talks about how her plays—which include The Pigeon, Blood River, and Fall After Midsummer —are driven by characters and their emotions rather than just issues. Chloë also offers a glimpse into the Kingston theatre scene, her unique writing methods, and her perspective on why Canadian theatre struggles with second productions. This episode explores: How Chloë's approach to playwriting is rooted in character and emotion, stemming from her acting background. The challenge of tackling dark themes and how she judges where to stop when exploring traumatic topics. Her writing process, which involves working well with deadlines and puzzling pieces together rather than outlining. Why she returned to Canada after living in the US and the cultural d

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by Courtney Stoltz, the production manager for a new community theatre company in Kenora, Ontario, called So I guess we're doing this. Courtney shares her journey from actor to production manager. She provides a look into the theatre scene in Northwestern Ontario and the experience of taking their original play, Finding Richard Close, to the Winnipeg Fringe Festival. Courtney also discusses the unique balance of working in health promotion in remote Indigenous communities while pursuing her passion for theatre, highlighting the company's commitment to community wellness and their ambitious plans for the future. This episode explores: The formation of So I guess we're doing this, a theatre company founded by two family physicians in Kenora. The themes of community, family, and healing in their original play, Finding Richard Close. The challenges and triumphs of a new company performing at the Winnipeg Fringe Festival. The state of the

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by Liz Buchanan, a Hamilton-based actor, writer, and director who is also the artistic director of 9M Theatre. Liz shares her journey as a playwright and performer, focusing on her two Hamilton Fringe shows Gnomes A Traumatic Comedy (2023) and Liz A Traumatic Comedy (2024). She discusses her long-standing fascination with gnomes, how she uses humour and absurdity to explore personal trauma on stage, and more. This episode explores: The creative process behind Liz's two fringe shows, which use comedy to explore themes of trauma and healing. The personal and surprising history of her fascination with gnomes, stemming from her childhood and the show Fraggle Rock. The decision to transition from a multi-cast show (Gnomes) to a solo performance (Liz) to tell a more personal story. The unique pressures and catharsis of performing a solo show, especially when the material is autobiographical. The founding of her theatre company 9M Theatre, an

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by playwright Chelsea Woolley. Chelsea discusses her latest play, Enormity, Girl, and the Earthquake in Her Lungs, which is being produced by Nightwood Theatre. She shares the fascinating, eight-year journey of the play's development, from its original concept to a workshop production with theatre students, and the challenges of being a playwright in the rehearsal hall. Chelsea also talks about her unique approach to writing, which involves infusing humor and absurdity into a serious subject to create a piece that can only exist as live theatre. This episode explores: The development of Enormity, Girl, and the Earthquake in Her Lungs, from its original idea to its current form. Chelsea's collaborative process with director Andrea Donaldson and the cast during rehearsals. The strategic use of humor and absurdity to make a serious play more engaging and a unique theatrical experience. Her theatre origin story, from writing plays in grade

About This Episode: In a solo episode of Stageworthy, host and producer Phil Rickaby discusses the looming threat to Canadian theatre and arts due to government funding cuts. He reflects on the recent mandate that all government departments, including the Canada Council for the Arts, must find 15% in savings, which will result in significant cuts to arts programs. Phil explores why the arts in Canada are so vulnerable to these cuts, citing a long-standing public perception that they are not essential or relevant to the average Canadian. He poses critical questions about the future of theatre in Canada, including what companies will do to survive and how the arts community can better articulate its value to the public and to the government. This episode explores: The significant impact of a mandated 15% cut to the Canada Council for the Arts. The challenge of public perception that the arts are for "elites" and are not relevant to most Canadians. The historical context of Canadian-made content being

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by Toronto-based actor Virgilia Griffith, who is currently appearing in two shows at the Shaw Festival: Blues for an Alabama Sky and Murder on the Lake. In this conversation, Virgilia discusses the unique demands of each production and how they complement one another, keeping her acting practice fresh and present. She shares her journey from aspiring dancer to award-winning actor, the importance of mentorship, and how she found her calling in theatre. This episode explores: Virgilia’s path to becoming a theatre artist The power of mentorship and the artists who shaped her career What it means to bring authenticity and lived experience to performance The importance of representation and telling underrepresented stories How she approaches the creative process as an artist. Guest:

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by Iain Moggach, former Artistic Director of Theatre by the Bay in Barrie, Ontario. In this thoughtful conversation, Iain shares his journey from actor, administrator, and ultimately artistic director, reflecting on what it means to build theatre outside of a major city centre. He speaks to the unique challenges and opportunities of working in Barrie, and the importance of creating space for regional stories. This episode explores: Iain’s journey to theatre leadership The role of mentorship and community in his career path The challenges of running a theatre company outside major urban centres Building partnerships and engaging new audiences in Barrie The importance of perseverance, adaptability, and curiosity in theatre-making Guest:

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by Nancy Kenny, an actor, writer, and producer whose latest show, I Don’t Feel Pretty/Chu pas cute, will have readings at the 2025 Halifax Fringe Festival. In this warm and insightful conversation, Nancy shares the deeply personal inspiration behind her show, the balance between humour and vulnerability in storytelling, and the journey of shaping a one-person play from lived experience. This episode explores: The origins of I Don’t Feel Pretty/Chu pas cute and its autobiographical elements Using humour to explore challenging personal topics The Fringe Festival as a space for experimentation and connection Lessons learned from workshopping solo performance Building audience trust and creating space for shared vulnerability Guest:

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by Evan Bawtinheimer, a Toronto-based, Dora Award winning playwright. Evan shares the inspiration behind his play award winning play, Patty Picker. In this candid and thoughtful conversation, Evan opens up about playwriting, his journey of personal growth and mental health, and why vulnerability and connection are central to his artistic work. This episode explores: Evan’s evolution from musical theatre performer to playwright The value of personal storytelling and creating space for others Navigating imposter syndrome and artistic doubt Building a theatre company rooted in honesty, humour, and support Why community matters more than perfection in indie theatre Guest:

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby is joined by Michelle Langille, an actor, director, and burlesque performer whose journey has taken her from Toronto to Cape Breton. In this deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation, Michelle talks about her roots in musical theatre, what it means to redefine success on your own terms, and how returning to a smaller community reignited her creative spark. From lessons in understudy generosity to creating her burlesque persona "Honey de Mele," Michelle shares insights about art, sustainability, and joyful reinvention. This episode explores: Michelle’s early inspirations and love of musical theatre The journey through multiple theatre schools and cities How a move to Nova Scotia shifted her career trajectory Her experience as a burlesque performer and fundraiser producer Making theatre in small communities and the power of local talent Lessons in kindness, mentorship, and the importance of joy in the rehearsal room Her directorial j

About This Episode: This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes ted witzel, Artistic Director of Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, to discuss the company’s 2025–2026 season and the vital role Buddies plays locally and globally. In this wide-ranging and passionate conversation, ted talks about the curatorial ethos behind the season, how queerness informs both aesthetic and practice, and why Buddies remains a radical, necessary space in an increasingly conservative climate. This episode explores: The inspiration and process behind curating the 2025–2026 Buddies season Why queerness is more than representation—it's a creative methodology The value of festivals (Rhubarb, Nuit Blanche, Queer Pride) in Buddies' identity Longing as a theme: desire, intimacy, revolution, and more Highlights from the season including The Green Line, Make Banana Cry, The Herald, and The Begging Brown Bitch Plays The importance of unruliness, disobedience, and disrespectability in queer theatre The enduring legacy and global uniqu

This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes Aisling Murphy, theatre reporter for the Globe and Mail. In a wide-ranging and engaging conversation, Aisling shares the journey from musical theatre student to one of Canada’s leading theatre critics. They discuss her early roots in Baltimore, her move to Canada, and how a moment of personal upheaval redirected her path from performing to criticism. Now six months into her role at the Globe, Aisling offers sharp insights into the world of Canadian theatre and the delicate balance of being both a critic and a supporter of the art form. This episode explores: Aisling's transition from performer to theatre critic Her journey from Ottawa to Toronto, and eventually to the Globe and Mail The challenges of reviewing peers and staying impartial Differences between Canadian and American theatre ecosystems The unique opportunities and responsibilities of being a national critic Her thoughts on critical integrity, honesty, and theatre as public record The importance

This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes annemieke wade, Executive Director of the Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA). annemieke shares insights from her first six months in the role, her vision for TAPA’s future, and her deep commitment to building frameworks of care and collaboration in Toronto’s arts sector. From revitalizing artist support programs to reimagining rehearsal and performance norms, this conversation highlights the evolving landscape of Canadian theatre and the importance of intergenerational dialogue. This episode explores: The challenges and steep learning curve of succeeding a 21-year ED at TAPA The role and scope of TAPA, from the Dora Awards to mentorship and training programs The B Street Arts Hub and its community resources annemieke's career journey from Vermont to Toronto and into arts leadership The impact of her late ADHD diagnosis and the power of self-understanding Her vision for more flexible, sustainable work practices in the arts The importance of bri

This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby brings you a fourth and final Toronto Fringe Extra episode, featuring interviews with 4 Toronto Fringe Artists, in advance of the Toronto Fringe Festival, running July 2-13 at various locations around Toronto. In this episode: Ronit Rubenstein, creator and performer of Things My Dad Kept SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/things-my-dad-kept Alice Lundy, director and producer of The Adding Machine SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/adding-machine Nam Nguyen one of the writers and performers of Q_uiz Icarus_ SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/quiz-icarus Sara Mayfield, writer and performer of Who Drinks Mocktails on the Beach?! SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/who-drinks-mocktails-beach If you value thoughtful conversations about Canadian theatre, consider supporting the podcast on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Backers get early access to episodes and help shap