Stageworthy

Now in its 10th year, Stageworthy is Canada’s theatre podcast, bringing you in-depth interviews with theatre artists, panel discussions, and more. Each week, host Phil Rickaby sits down with the people who make theatre happen: from household names to artists you should know. Whether you're an audience member, a theatre maker, or just plain curious about Canadian theatre, Stageworthy offers a front-row seat to the conversations shaping the industry. New episodes every Tuesday.

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Jul 1, 2025 · 1 hr
Laura Paduch & Rachel Kennedy
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes Rachel Kennedy and Laura Paduch, the co-leads of the Toronto Fringe Festival. With the 2024 edition just days away, Rachel and Laura share insights into what makes this year’s festival unique, including the exciting new partnership with Soulpepper Theatre, the return of beloved venues, and the community-building magic that Fringe fosters year after year. They also reflect on their personal journeys with Fringe, the evolution of self-producing in theatre, and the vital role that Fringe plays in launching careers. This episode explores: What a Fringe Festival is and how the Toronto Fringe operates The 2024 move to a central hub at Soulpepper in the Distillery District The return and growth of unconventional venues across the city The evolution and merging of the Next Stage Festival into Fringe Peer mentorship and producer pods supporting first-time creators Why Fringe is vital for risk-taking, experimentation, and community-building Guests: 🎭 Rachel Kennedy – Executive Director, Toronto Fringe Rachel Kennedy (she/they) is the Executive Director & Co-Lead at the Toronto Fringe Festival. For the last decade, they have had the pleasure of supporting local indie theatre and dance productions as a producer, director and stage manager and arts administrator. Rachel’s love for the arts centres around a passion for advocacy, equity, and bringing communities together through storytelling. Thanks to wonderful collaborators throughout her career, Rachel has learned much about the unique needs of Toronto’s artists and how essential their impact is across the City and beyond. Rachel is thrilled to serve the Toronto Fringe community and can't wait for this summer's Festival (join us July 2-13th!). 🎭 Laura Paduch – Managing Director, Toronto Fringe Laura Paduch (she/her) is the Managing Director & Co-Lead of the Toronto Fringe Festival, a mid-size arts organization that has been a platform for independent performing arts for over 35 years. She is a producer, arts administrator, and advocate, and has had the privilege of serving the Toronto Fringe Festival community since 2018.  Before that, Laura was the General Manager of fu-GEN Theatre Company, and ARC, where she advanced the inaugural joint management initiative. Laura's additional professional experience has included extensive stage and production management, event production, theatre producing, and performance creation. The Toronto Fringe offers a community conduit that enables her to champion mentorship and resource sharing, and re-casting new norms and standards for arts sector workplace practices. She has sat on the TAPA Advocacy Committee, is on the ArtsVote Steering Committee, and the board of directors of the Canadian Association of Fringe Festivals. Connect with Toronto Fringe: 📸 Instagram: @toronto_fringe 🌐 Website: fringetoronto.com Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!Bio, and socials go here
Jun 26, 2025 · 1 hr 8 min
Toronto Fringe Extra 3
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby brings you a third 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: Laura Piccinin, co-creator and producer of the new musical Apothecary SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/apothecary From Regarding Antigone, Dramaturg esi calendar and Assistant Director, Sarah Larmony SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/regarding-antigone Alicia Payne, playwright and co-prodcer of Justice for Maurice Henry Carter SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/justice-maurice-henry-carter Writer and performer of Terrible Fish, Montreal’s Caitlin Murphy. SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/terrible-fish Watch for another Toronto Fringe Extra on Thursday, Next week! 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 shape future roundtable discussions. Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Jun 24, 2025 · 1 hr
Ben Yoganathan
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes Ben Yoganathan, a Toronto-based actor, writer, and director whose latest work, Zeitgeist, will premiere at the 2024 Toronto Fringe Festival. In a lively and wide-ranging conversation, Ben shares the inspiration behind Zeitgeist, his theatre journey from Guelph to Toronto, his experience with unconventional venues, and his recent creation residency in Zurich. This episode dives into the highs and lows of making independent theatre and what it means to be a young artist in an overwhelming world. This episode explores: The inspiration behind Zeitgeist and its cinematic influences The creative process behind developing a play about navigating life in your 20s The benefits and challenges of unconventional fringe venues Ben’s experience at a creation residency in Zurich Thoughts on the shifting pedagogy of theatre education The value of Fringe festivals in building a theatre career Guest: 🎭 Ben Yoganathan Ben Yoganthan is an actor, writer, composer, and director born in Sri Lanka and based in Toronto. Since graduating from Toronto Metropolitan University, he has performed as Hal/Henry V in Driftwood Theatre’s Henry V, Andrei in The Howland Company’s Three Sisters, and Todd Tweedle in Mixtape Project’s Dora-nominated musical Killing Time. As a composer, Ben has contributed music to Kole Durnford's play ECHO (Edmonton Fringe Festival) and several dance works: Embrasement Synaptique by Zach Bastille (Festival Quartiers Danses), a subject by Alli Carry (Fall for Dance North), and The Skin by Emily Duckett (Kinetic Studio Open Series). Ben has written two full-length plays: Hunger, which premiered at the Terra Firma Festival at the Theatre Centre, and ZEITGEIST, a workshop production he directed earlier this year and is set to premiere at the 2025 Toronto Fringe Festival. He recently completed a creation residency with Experi Theater in Zurich, Switzerland, where he developed and performed a one-person show. Ben was also selected for an international residency with the Odin Teatret in Ringkobing, Denmark. Connect with Ben: 📸 Instagram: @off.the.nose Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Jun 19, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min
Toronto Fringe Extra #2
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby brings you another special 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: Emma Golden the writer and producer of the true Halifax story, Potato Potato SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/potato-potato Laura Anne Harris the writer and performer of the raw, tender, and quietly radical, Have Fun Kids. SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/have-fun-kids Matti Mclean, creator and performer of A Canadian Explains Eurovision to other Canadians SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/canadian-explains-eurovision-other-canadians Sashoya Simpson, writer of LULU takes us into a world of Afro-Caribbean folklore, legacy and ancestry. SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/lulu Watch for another Toronto Fringe Extra on Thursday, Next week! 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 shape future roundtable discussions. Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio | Your favourite podcast app 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Jun 18, 2025 · 1 hr 10 min
Toronto Fringe Preview
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby assembles a who's who of Toronto theatre podcasters, to talk about Toronto Fringe, shows you should see, the Next Stage Festival, ticket prices and much more! This episode features podcasters: Alison Mullings from Creative Full Time Janine Marley from A View From the Box Alexandra Lean from Being Dramatic Ryan Borochovitz from Cup of Hemlock Theatre Podcast. This episode was live streamed on youtube on July 17, 7:30pm. Support Stageworthy 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 shape future roundtable discussions. Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Jun 12, 2025 · 1 hr 10 min
Toronto Fringe Extra #1
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby brings you a special 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: Dawna Wightman, playwright and performer in HOODY, an edgy retelling of Little Red Riding Hood for people who have kept their child soul. SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/hoody Adam Bailey, creator and performer of Adam Bailey: My Three Deaths in which Adam learns that no matter how many times you die - you only live once. SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/adam-bailey-my-three-deaths Composer and comedian Eli Pasic on Screamin in the Rain, in which he sings his tasteless, original ditties! SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/screamin-rain Fuschia Boston talks about String of Pearls, an exploration of how a shift of power influences the lives of a theatre company shaping both their artistic journeys and their personal relationships. SHOW INFO AND TICKETS: https://fringetoronto.com/fringe/show/string-pearls Watch for another Toronto Fringe Extra on Thursday, Next week! Support Stageworthy 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 shape future roundtable discussions. Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Jun 10, 2025 · 23 min
Phil Rickaby: Solo
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby presents a solo episode. With the Toronto Fringe Festival on the horizon and multiple episodes currently in production, Phil takes a moment to reflect on the state of Canadian theatre, the importance of building audiences, and the challenges facing the industry today. In a passionate and thought-provoking monologue, he explores the need for better marketing in theatre, the limitations of current outreach strategies, and the urgency of cultivating a theatre-going audience that extends beyond industry insiders. Phil also shares his frustrations with streamer platforms and their limited contributions to Canadian content, as well as his deep belief in the value of Canadian stories. Support Stageworthy 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 shape future roundtable discussions. Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Jun 3, 2025 · 59 min
Rebecca Perry
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes back actor, singer, playwright, and producer Rebecca Perry, marking a full-circle moment as Rebecca was Phil’s very first podcast guest nearly eight years ago. Rebecca shares the journey of her acclaimed solo show Confessions of a Redheaded Coffee Shop Girl, which debuted at the Toronto Fringe ten years ago and has since toured internationally, including a sold-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe. Rebecca discusses the evolution of the show over the years, her preparation for returning to Edinburgh and Toronto Fringe for the show’s 10th anniversary, and the realities of crowdfunding and producing as an independent artist. She also reflects on the importance of adapting material in response to live audiences, the sense of community on the Canadian Fringe circuit, and the challenges and joys of international touring. This episode explores: How Confessions of a Redheaded Coffee Shop Girl has evolved over a decade The distinct culture and audience vibe of different Fringe festivals (Toronto, Edinburgh, Winnipeg, Edmonton) Preparing for the marathon that is Edinburgh Fringe Navigating grants, crowdfunding, and financial challenges as an indie artist Building an international touring career and the importance of networking The excitement of bringing the show to a new generation of audiences Guest: 🎭 Rebecca Perry Rebecca Perry is an actor, singer, playwright and producer based in Toronto. From Hallmark movies to The Handmaid's Tale, she has appeared in a wide variety of things on film and TV, most recently including Jazz Ramsey: K-9 Mystery and Bluegrass Christmas, and others across Netflix, Crave, Prime, Bell Fibe and more. Rebecca has performed on stages all over the world. She was part of the international touring cast of Roseneath Theatre's The Money Tree, including a run at the prestigious Smith Centre in Las Vegas, NV. Her solo shows, the multiple award-winning Confessions of a Redheaded Coffeeshop Girl and its sequels, From Judy to Bette and Bond, James Bond: The Songs of 007 have played to sold out houses and audience acclaim wherever they go. She is excited to celebrate the anniversary of Confessions of a Redheaded Coffeeshop Girl with a run at the Toronto Fringe (Alumnae Theatre) this July, and after beginning her Edinburgh Fringe journey 10 years ago with Confessions... at the Gilded Ballon Teviot, and bringing her last show From Judy to Bette in 2019 to the Gilded Balloon Patter House, it’s a thrill to return back to Gilded Ballon once again for its 40th Anniversary Season in August 2025. Since that run in Edinburgh in 2015, Perry's shows have toured from top to bottom of the UK, all over Canada, and into both the US and Europe. Connect with Rebecca: 📸 Instagram: @redheaded_coffeeshop_girl 🌐 Website: rebeccaperry.ca Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio | 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
May 27, 2025 · 51 min
Javier Vilalta
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes Javier Vilalta, a Mexican-Canadian interdisciplinary artist, stage director, movement coordinator, translator, and co-founder of 8ROJO Theatre. Based in Calgary, Javier shares his journey through performance, directing, and devising unique and often non-verbal theatre experiences. He reflects on his early challenges as an immigrant artist, the evolution of his creative voice, and his mission to help shape Calgary’s cultural identity. This episode explores: Javier’s early artistic influences and his pivot from acting to directing The founding and philosophy behind Ocho Rojo Theatre Creating intimate, high-concept work for small audiences His experience directing across Canada and internationally Thoughts on diversity, representation, and creative freedom in Canadian theatre His recent production of Mary Stuart and the upcoming queer retelling of Romeo and Juliet with The Shakespeare Company Guest: 🎭 Javier Vilalta Javier is a Mexican-Canadian visual performance creator, stage director, movement choreographer, and translator. He resides in Calgary, where he attended the University of Calgary’s Fine Arts department. As a stage director and movement choreographer, he has collaborated with companies such as Vertigo Theatre, Theatre Calgary, Sage Theatre, Downstage, Lunchbox Theatre, The Shakespeare Company, CYPT, Jupiter Theatre, Chromatic Theatre, Inside Out Theatre, The Guild Hall, and StoryBook. He has earned two Betty Mitchell nominations for direction and choreography. In 2005 he co-founded, along with Black artist Norma Lewis, the visual performance ensemble 8ROJO. With this group, he has devised five interdisciplinary creations; with which he has travelled around Canada and as far afield as Mexico, Czech Republic, Sweden, France, Taiwan, UK, and Iceland. With 8ROJO, he was awarded the ‘Innovation in Performance’ award at the 2016 STOFF Festival in Stockholm, Sweden; and he was a finalist for a 2021 Off West End Award in London, UK for Outstanding Production. He has translated the texts ‘100 Love Poems and a Song of Despair’ by Pablo Neruda and Federico García Lorca’s ‘Rural Trilogy’. He translated and adapted the Mexican modern opera Anjou: The Musical Horror Tale for Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS. Since 2010, he has assessed and developed educational sessions based on body mechanics, movement for the stage and visuals in motion, which he has shared with artists around the world. Connect with Javier: 📸 Instagram: @javidirector Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio | 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
May 20, 2025 · 50 min
Nicole Obidiaka
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes Nicole Obidiaka, a passionate playwright, arts advocate, and business professional based in St. John's, Newfoundland. Nicole shares her journey from Lagos, Nigeria, to Newfoundland, her work as a playwright amplifying Black voices, and her mission to make theatre more inclusive. She also discusses her play Blank Page, her upcoming work Beauty Behind the Norms, and her advocacy for mentorship and community building in the arts. This episode explores: Nicole’s journey from Lagos, Nigeria, to St. John’s, Newfoundland How Blank Page brought representation to the stage in St. John’s Her new play Beauty Behind the Norms and its exploration of polygamy and womanhood in Nigeria The importance of mentorship and amplifying Black voices in Newfoundland’s theatre community Her plans for a Black Theatre Festival to support emerging Black playwrights Guest: 🎭 Nicole Obidiaka Nicole Obiodiaka is a dynamic business professional, playwright, and arts advocate dedicated to amplifying Black voices. She works at Nasdaq Verafin and is the founder of Centra, a company committed to supporting black creatives & entrepreneurs.Her plays, including Beauty Behind the Norms, Amapiano meets Shakespeare and Blank Page – An African Love Story, have been showcased at festivals such as Women’s Work Festival and St. John’s Shorts. Beyond the stage, Nicole has produced and written projects for CBC & PictureNL, highlighting Black experiences in Newfoundland and Labrador. She also leads the St. John’s chapter of Nasdaq’s Global Link of Black Employees and serves on the board of St. John’s Shorts and Shakespeare by the Sea Festival board. Nicole’s work has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies, BBA Award for excellence & leadership, Memorial University Centennial 100 & Afropolitan Canada Youth Leadership Award. Whether in business or the arts, Nicole is committed to storytelling, leadership, and community impact. Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
May 13, 2025 · 56 min
Ethan Persyko
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes Ethan Persyko, a multi-talented actor, playwright, and theatre creator. Ethan shares their journey in the theatre world, their creative process, and the inspiration behind their latest projects. They also discuss their experience working across different genres and the importance of storytelling that reflects diverse perspectives. This episode explores: Ethan’s journey into theatre and their early inspirations. Their approach to playwriting and character development. Their work on recent projects and upcoming shows. The importance of community and collaboration in theatre. Navigating the challenges of independent theatre production. Guest: 🎭 Ethan Persyko Ethan Persyko, Artistic Director and Founder of Theatre Ya Knowww (TYK), is a multidisciplinary performance artist creating space for bold, experimental, and care-centered storytelling. Based in Vaughan, TYK blends theatre, film, and movement in collaborative projects that prioritize joy, respect, and collective growth. From fast-paced creative festivals to intimate performance labs, TYK empowers emerging artists to take risks, build community, and reimagine how stories are made and shared. Connect with Ethan: 📸 Instagram: @breathethan_joshuaa | @theatre_ya_knowww Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio | 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
May 6, 2025 · 56 min
Amanda Lin & Julia Dickson
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby welcomes Amanda Lin and Julia Dickson, the co-leadership team behind the Paprika Theatre Festival, now celebrating its 24th season. Amanda and Julia share the story of Paprika’s evolution, recent strategic programming changes to prioritize artist and staff well-being, and the organization's commitment to supporting emerging artists. They dive into how the Paprika Festival fosters professional development, provides paid opportunities, and creates space for experimentation and growth — a vital contribution to the Canadian theatre community. Amanda and Julia also talk about their own journeys into arts administration, their long-standing collaboration, and what’s coming up at this year’s festival. This episode explores: How the Paprika Theatre Festival empowers emerging artists and administrators Why Paprika shifted its programming to prevent burnout and better support artists The importance of paid training opportunities in building a more inclusive theatre industry Amanda and Julia’s creative and leadership journeys Highlights and exciting events for this year's Paprika Festival (May 13–17, 2025, at Aki Studio in Toronto) How community programming, including a neighbourhood lemonade stand and a pre-prom dance, builds lasting local connections Guests: 🎭 Amanda Lin Amanda Lin 林美智 (she/her) is a queer Taiwanese-Canadian multi-disciplinary artist with the goal of using art and storytelling to cultivate compassionate and dynamic communities. She is a member of the Labour in the Arts Collective where she co-hosts free community events for artsworkers. She has worked with companies such as Cahoots Theatre, Single Thread Theatre, Theatre Direct, Why Not Theatre, and Young People’s Theatre. Her first full-length play, Between a Wok and a Hot Pot premiered with Cahoots Theatre in January 2023 and received 6 Dora nominations in the Independent category, including Outstanding Performance for Amanda and Outstanding Production. Amanda enjoys lying on the floor. 🎭 Julia Dickson Julia Dickson (she/her) is an arts manager, producer, and educator currently based in Tkaronto, the place in the water where the trees are standing. Her practice centres around the idea of creating supportive spaces that prioritize the artists and their working experience, which includes examining the systemic challenges in place within the arts sector and working to remove barriers both for audiences and for artists to experience live performance. Across her practice, she has worked with companies such as 1s1 Theatre, SummerWorks Festival, Why Not Theatre, Studio 180 Theatre, Young People's Theatre, Theatre Passe Muraille, Crossroads Theatre (formerly Shakespeare in Action), and County Stage. On top of her work at Paprika, she is also currently the Managing Producer of ARC. She has a post-graduate certificate in Arts Administration and Cultural Management from Humber College, and a Bachelor of Education with a focus on Artist in the Community Education from Queen's University. She can always be persuaded to get an ice cream cone. Connect with Paprika Theatre Festival: 🌐 Website: paprikafestival.com 📸 Instagram: @paprikafestival Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Apr 29, 2025 · 1 hr 8 min
Ruth Lawrence
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby speaks with Newfoundland-based actor, writer, director, producer, and self-described instigator Ruth Lawrence. Ruth reflects on a career deeply rooted in community, mentorship, and creative activism. In this rich and thoughtful conversation, she discusses her early theatre influences, why she returned to Newfoundland after studying in Ontario, her passion for mentorship, and how theatre can be a catalyst for social change. This episode explores: Why Ruth describes herself as an “instigator” and how theatre can inspire change The value of mentorship and fostering the next generation of theatre artists Her return to Newfoundland and how she built a thriving arts career from scratch The vibrant and collaborative theatre scene in St. John’s Her extensive experience in both theatre and film, and how the two intersect Writing her new play If She Runs, an interactive exploration of women in politics Guest: 🎭 Ruth Lawrence Ruth Lawrence is an actor/writer/director/producer of film and theatre, based in St. John’s, NL. As a filmmaker, Ruth’s feature films include Little Orphans (Best Canadian Feature, Whistler Film Festival 2020), Hopeless Romantic (2018), and the award-winning comedy feature, Party Pirate, sold-out its opening Gala overnight at the St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival in October 2023. Her documentaries A Lot of Love in the Room (2021) and Circus by Komatik (2019) have been featured on CBC Gem. Her latest doc is Finding Grace: A Soul Song (2024). She has directed, written, and/or produced on over 70 short films and webisodes. She co-founded White Rooster Theatre with Sherry White in 2001 and was its Artistic Director until 2023, producing plays written by women and other marginalized genders. The company expanded its mandate to provide opportunities in the areas of design and production, keeping space for racialized creators. For the company, she has produced over 30 shows, directed Happy Anniversary (co-produced with TODOS Productions) Remnants, and created Other Women Walk. Most recently, she co-wrote and performed in Song Seekers: The Story of Elisabeth Greenleaf and Grace Mansfield. For Opera on the Avalon, she directed Three Decembers and the 2023 premiere of February, based on Lisa Moore’s remarkable novel. For Persistence Theatre, she directed an acclaimed production of Berni Stapleton’s Offensive to Some and is writing a new play, If She Runs, to premiere in their 2025-26 season. Ruth’s honours include the Joan Orenstein Best Actress Award, the RBC Michelle Jackson Award for Emerging Filmmaker, the Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council’s Artist of the Year, the Queen’s Jubilee Medal, the YWCA Woman of Distinction, a WIFT-AT WAVE Award, the national Leslie Yeo Award for Volunteerism, and the inaugural Ross Leslie Award for her contributions to film and theatre. Connect with Ruth: 🌐 Website: www.ruthlawrence.ca 📸 Instagram: @ruthlesslawless Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Apr 22, 2025 · 55 min
Tahirih Vejdani
In this episode of Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby speaks with Toronto-based performer, voice educator, and multidisciplinary artist Tahirih Vejdani. Born in Saint John, NB, and raised in Regina, Tahirih shares the inspiring and non-traditional journey that led her from classical music training in the Prairies to becoming a sought-after artist and educator in Canada’s theatre scene. They discuss her early connection to choirs, her work as a singer and actor at Stratford Festival, and the founding of Ground Floor Team, an organization devoted to care-based rehearsal practices and conflict transformation in theatre. Tahirih also reflects on returning to school for vocal pedagogy and the evolving nature of her touring career. This episode explores: How classical music shaped Tahirih’s performance journey Transitioning from musician to actor in the world of Shakespeare The founding and mission of Ground Floor Team and the ARCS methodology Touring across Canada with Catalyst Theatre’s The Invisible: Agents of Ungentlemanly Warfare Her return to school to complete a Master’s in Vocal Pedagogy Insights on fostering healthier rehearsal spaces in Canadian theatre Guest: 🎭 Tahirih Vejdani Tahirih Vejdani (she/her) is a Toronto-based performer, educator and multidisciplinary artist of Persian and South Indian heritage. With a career spanning over 15 years, she has worked extensively in theatre, music, and television, bringing a deep commitment to storytelling, collaboration, and equity in the arts. As an actor and singer, Tahirih has performed on stages across Canada and internationally, including the Stratford Shakespeare Festival, Citadel Theatre, Grand Theatre, Globe Theatre, Factory Theatre, Cleveland Playhouse Square and Timbre 4. She’s also toured with acclaimed vocal ensembles such as The Nathaniel Dett Chorale and The Elmer Iseler Singers. Her on-screen work includes appearances in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and Kim’s Convenience. In addition to her performance career, Tahirih is a passionate voice educator and choral conductor. She has taught voice at Sheridan College's Bachelor of Musical Theatre program and worked with choirs such as Echo Women’s Choir, Univox, and the Community Music Schools of Toronto. She holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Regina and is currently completing a Masters in Vocal Pedagogy from The University of Essex and The Voice Study Centre. Tahirih is also a co-founder of Ground Floor Team, an organization dedicated to improving working conditions for artists through mentorship, education, and facilitation. Her artistic practice is grounded in empathy, curiosity, and a drive to build supportive, care-centered spaces both on and off stage. Connect with Tahirih: 🌐 Website: https://www.tahirihvejdani.com 📸 Instagram: @tahirihvejdani Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podchaser | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Apr 15, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
Cole Hayley
In this episode of Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby speaks with Cole Hayley, a theatre artist known for his innovative work and dedication to the Canadian theatre scene. Cole shares insights into his creative journey, the challenges and triumphs of working in theatre, and his latest projects. This episode explores: Cole’s path into theatre and his artistic influences. The challenges of creating and sustaining theatre work in Canada. Insights into his latest projects and what excites him most. Thoughts on collaboration and artistic growth. Advice for emerging theatre artists. Guest: 🎭 Cole Hayley Cole Hayley is a playwright and poet from Elliston, Newfoundland and Labrador. He is a graduate of the National Theatre School of Canada and an alumnus of Memorial University of Newfoundland, where he received a BA in English and Communications. He was the recipient of the 2023 Playwrights Guild of Canada RBC Emerging Playwright Award, and a two-time winner of the Arts and Letters award. He was a member of the inaugural Poverty Cove playwrights’ unit, the IATI Theatre Cimientos Unit, and has attended both Playwrights’ Workshop Montreal’s Gros Morne Residency, as well as the BANFF Playwrights Lab. Connect with Cole: Website: https://www.colehayley.com/ Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Your favourite podcast app 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Apr 8, 2025 · 56 min
Mariel Kathryn Hunter
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby speaks with actor, director, and casting professional Mariel Kathryn Hunter. Based in Saint John, New Brunswick, Mariel has worked extensively in theatre, film, and television, both as a performer and behind the scenes. Mariel shares her journey from Saint John to Vancouver and back, discussing how an unexpected dream pushed her to pursue acting. She also talks about her work in casting, her approach to directing, and why storytelling is essential in regional theatre. This episode explores: How a vivid dream convinced Mariel to become an actor. Her experiences in Vancouver’s theatre and film industry. Why she chose to return to Saint John to continue her work in the arts. The challenges and rewards of directing in a smaller theatre community. The importance of mentorship and supporting emerging artists. Her insights into casting and helping actors bring their best performances. Guest: 🎭 Mariel Kathryn Hunter With a versatile resume in film, television, and theatre, Mariel Kathryn Hunter brings a dynamic blend of production expertise and artistic vision to every project. With credits ranging from casting director to production roles on projects of every scale from commercials and corporate videos to MOWs, documentaries, animated series, broadcast television, short and feature films her diverse industry experience in all stages of production reflects her love of all facets of creating. Mariel has honed her craft across diverse genres over the last decade plus and has taken advantage of any training opportunities available to her to widen her skill sets. She’s worked on projects for Paramount +, MTV, CBC, APTN, and Just For Laughs. Through her theatre company, Fort Heart Productions, founded in 2017 she has served as Artistic Director and has produced and directed dozens of pieces for stage all while providing training opportunities in the form of acting workshops. As the founder of Bicoastal Casting, Mariel has connected talent to opportunity, most notably for the sci-fi series Revival shot in the Greater Saint John Region. Mariel is looking forward to holding more community oriented events in 2025, including monthly acting workouts. Connect with Mariel: Instagram: @unknownmariel Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marielkathryn Instagram: @fortheartprods Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fortheartprods Instagram: @bicoastalcastingnb Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Your favourite podcast app 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Apr 1, 2025 · 1 hr 18 min
Scott Garland
This week on Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby sits down with actor, writer, and theatre creator Scott Garland. A fixture in Toronto’s theatre community, Scott is passionate about playwriting, dramaturgy, and fostering creative spaces. He was one of the curators of Sing for Your Supper, a monthly play reading series that gave playwrights a chance to hear their work performed. Scott is also a founding member of Silent Protagonist, a puppet theatre company that gained attention with Frankensteinesque at the Toronto Fringe. In this conversation, he shares insights on theatre school, the challenges of independent theatre, and the importance of building artistic community. This episode dives into: Scott’s early theatre influences and what led him to pursue acting. His experience in multiple theatre schools and how training shaped his career. The evolution of Sing for Your Supper and its role in supporting new playwrights. Why Toronto’s theatre community needs more development opportunities before production. His work with Silent Protagonist and the art of puppetry in theatre. His experience in voice acting, including People Watching. The emotional impact of the pandemic on artists and why we need bold, fearless creativity. Guest: 🎭 Scott Garland Actor, Playwright & Theatre Creator Former Curator of Sing for Your Supper Founding Member of Silent Protagonist Voice Actor in People Watching Connect with Scott: 📸 Instagram: @scottdontgotthegram Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Mar 25, 2025 · 58 min
Graham Isador
Stageworthy is back! After a year-long hiatus, host Phil Rickaby returns to celebrate and amplify Canadian theatre. In this first episode of the relaunch, Phil sits down with playwright, journalist, and Globe and Mail staff writer Graham Isador. Graham discusses his latest play, Truck, a powerful exploration of automation, AI, and the future of labour, opening at Factory Studio Theatre in Toronto on March 26-30, 2025. He also shares insights on his career in journalism, his experience with vision loss that led to the CBC podcast Shortsighted, and the challenges of making theatre in Canada. This episode dives into: Graham’s journey from punk rock journalism to theatre. The impact of AI on creative industries and writing. The financial realities of producing independent theatre in Canada. And Much more... Guest: 🎭 Graham Isador Graham Isador is a writer based in Toronto. Called a "master storyteller" by the Toronto Guardian, his works has appeared at VICE, GQ, and The BBC. In 2024, Isador wrote and hosted "Short Sighted" for the CBC, a podcast documenting his experience with vision loss. He is currently a staff writer with The Globe and Mail. Selected television writing credits: Sight Unseen (CTV, The CW), ONE Championship (Amazon Prime) Select Theatre Credits: Situational Anarchy (Pandemic Theatre), WHITE HEAT (English Theatre Berlin), Take d Milk, Nah? (Rumble Theatre), TRCUK (Factory Theatre) Connect with Graham: 📸 Instagram: @presgang 🌐 Bluesky: @grahamisador.bsky.social 📝 Read his work at The Globe and Mail Tickets for Truck Factory Theatre – March 26-30, 2025: Get Tickets Support Stageworthy If you love the show, consider supporting on Patreon: patreon.com/stageworthy Subscribe & Follow: 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify 📺 Watch on YouTube – Like, subscribe & hit the notification bell!
Feb 13, 2024 · 55 min
Peter Hinton-Davis
In this final episode of Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby talks with theatre and opera director, playwright and educator, Peter Hinton-Davis. In addition to his work work as a director, playwright, and educator, from 2005-2012, he took over as the artistic director of English theatre at Ottawa’s National Arts Centre, shaping how Canada conceptualizes its national theatre. He is currently directing Coal Mine Theatre’s Dion, running until March 3 at Toronto’s Coal Mine Theatre. Stay tuned to the end of the episode for some thoughts from Phil Rickaby on the ending of Stageworthy. Bio Director, dramaturg and playwright Peter Hinton-Davis has worked across Canada with many theatre companies. He has been the Associate Artistic Director at Theatre Passe Muraille and the Canadian Stage Company in Toronto, Artistic Director of the Playwrights Theatre Centre in Vancouver, the Dramaturg in Residence at Playwrights' Workshop Montréal, and Artistic Associate of the Stratford Festival. From 2005 to 2012 he was Artistic Director of the National Arts Centre English theatre, where he created a resident English theatre company, with actors from across the country, and programmed the NAC's first season of Canadian plays. His own plays for the stage include Façade, Urban Voodoo (written with Jim Millan) and a trilogy of three full length plays entitled The Swanne -- George III: The Death of Cupid (2002), Princess Charlotte: The Acts of Venus (2003), and Queen Victoria: The Seduction of Nemesis (2004). Eleven years in the making, all three plays premiered under his direction at the Stratford Festival. In 2006, he co-created with Domini Blythe, and directed the solo work, Fanny Kemble, about the life of the famous British actress and abolitionist. www.peterhinton.ca Instagram: @peterhintondavis
Feb 6, 2024 · 55 min
Shifting Ground Collective
In this episode, Shifting Ground Collective founding members, Joshua Kilimnick, Shannon Murtagh, and Colette Richardson join me to unpack the story behind their latest production, "Merrily We Roll Along." Their journey reflects not just the highs and lows of the creative process, but also the resilience and enthusiasm needed to bring a classic Stephen Sondheim musical to Canadian audiences, all while nurturing new talents and weathering the storms of the pandemic. They also discuss the reality of running an indie theater company, balancing day jobs with their artistic aspirations. From the excitement of pub nights where show tunes reign supreme to the challenges of staging ambitious productions, they reveal the collective spirit that powers their endeavours. They also discuss a new musical in development, "Statistics," a production intertwining the personal and the historical, where academic pressure meets the remarkable story of Rosalind Franklin. Bio Founded in the spring of 2022, Shifting Ground Collective is Toronto’s newest home for emerging musical theatre voices. Their work spans developmental processes for new Canadian musicals, concert and cabaret programming, and full-scale productions of beloved musical theatre favourites – all with a focus on spotlighting the next-generation of great Canadian musical theatre talent. Shifting Ground has quickly developed a following and network that has positioned them to shape the future of the Canadian musical theatre sector, and was named one of the top 10 Breakthrough Artists of 2023 by the Toronto Star. shiftinggroundcollective.com Instagram: @shiftinggroundcollective