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 and jazz
Guest: 🎭 Michael Esposito II
Michael is an international actor and singer. Since graduating from the University of Toronto and Sheridan College, Michael has travelled the world performing on six different continents. His most recent work includes Eddie Birdlace in Dogfight and Monster by Daniel MacIvor. Some of his previous work includes Alan Menken’s The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz, Jersey Boys, and Disney Cruise Lines. His work in film includes The One That Got Away, Dive Shop, Adult Adoption, and The Avenue. He has been a featured vocalist on Canada's Got Talent and Casino Rama. His album "Night and Day" is available on iTunes and Spotify. Find out more about upcoming shows by following @mespo2 on Instagram.
Monster: A chilling one-person play performed by Michael Esposito II and directed by Angela Quinn.
MONSTER intricately peels back the psychological layers of 16 captivating characters, revealing the haunting core of their individual experiences. With a masterful blend of suspense, wit, and raw emotion, MONSTER beckons you to confront your deepest fears and embrace the profound complexities that define our humanity.
~ A finalist for the Governor General's Award for Drama ~
Connect with Michael: 🌐 Website: kemeproductions.com 📸 Instagram: @monsterplay2025 | @mespo2 🎵 TikTok: @mespo2 🎶 Listen to Michael’s album Night and Day on Apple Music
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