Shows
StageworthyLaura Paduch & Rachel KennedyThis 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 ho...2025-07-011h 00
StageworthyToronto Fringe Extra 3This 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...2025-06-261h 08
StageworthyBen YoganathanThis 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...2025-06-241h 00
StageworthyToronto Fringe Extra #2This 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...2025-06-191h 09
StageworthyToronto Fringe PreviewThis 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
B...2025-06-181h 10
StageworthyToronto Fringe Extra #1This 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...2025-06-121h 10
StageworthyPhil Rickaby: SoloThis 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...2025-06-1023 min
StageworthyRebecca PerryThis 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...2025-06-0359 min
StageworthyJavier VilaltaThis 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 smal...2025-05-2751 min
StageworthyNicole ObidiakaThis 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...2025-05-2050 min
StageworthyEthan PersykoThis 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 Persy...2025-05-1356 min
StageworthyAmanda Lin & Julia DicksonThis 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 comi...2025-05-0656 min
StageworthyRuth LawrenceThis 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 retu...2025-04-291h 08
StageworthyTahirih VejdaniIn 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 re...2025-04-2255 min
StageworthyCole HayleyIn 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 pla...2025-04-151h 02
StageworthyMariel Kathryn HunterThis 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...2025-04-0856 min
StageworthyScott GarlandThis 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 th...2025-04-011h 18
StageworthyGraham IsadorStageworthy 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...2025-03-2558 min
A View from the Box - The PodcastEpisode 8 - Phil Rickaby of "It Sees You When You're Sleeping"It's time for episode 8 of A View from the Box - The Podcast with the LEGENDARY Phil Rickaby.
Phil Rickaby is a writer and performer from Toronto, Ontario. Theatrical works include The Commandment, a solo play about an atheist who discovers that he’s been chosen to deliver a new commandment, has been seen at Fringe Festivals across Canada, and was named Best Solo Show at the 2018 Fundy Fringe, and named as part of Theatre Orangeville's (519) Best of Toronto Fringe in 2019. Phil is also the writer and Performer of The Introvert’s Guide to Life, Leaving the Hous...2024-12-0951 min
Zero Ambitions PodcastPeter Rickaby returns to ZAP: a lot of words about energy, retrofit, and natural building materials, all the way from South AfricaJeff and Dan are joined by Dr. Peter Rickaby again. We were due a catch up so we recorded the conversation because he's always interesting. Peter should need little introduction, so we'll just say he's our favourite retrofit expert (sorry everyone else) and our most frequent guest on the show. He's only returned to the pod, not to the UK. In principle he's migrated to South Africa and is supposed to be retiring, but that's not exactly worked out so far. He has made it to Johannesburg though. Bu, if you haven't encountered him...2024-05-141h 20
StageworthyPeter Hinton-DavisIn 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
2024-02-1355 min
StageworthyEmilio VieiraThis week, as we count down the final episode of Stageworthy, host Phil Rickaby talks with the passionate Emilio Vieira, who takes on the role of Palamon in Shakespeare BASH'd unique production of "Two Noble Kinsmen." Together, we explore the thrills and challenges of performing one of the Bard's less frequently staged plays. Emilio reveals the intricacies of making Shakespeare's language resonate with contemporary audiences and discusses the emotional highs and lows his character endures in this tale of honour and forbidden desire.
Embark on a behind-the-scenes journey with me as we examine the craft of adapting...2024-01-2359 min
StageworthyDeborah DrakefordIn this episode, Phil Rickaby talks with the outstanding Deborah Drakeford and unpacking the Canadian premiere of Joanna Murray-Smith's "Rockabye." From the first costume fitting that sets the stage for character metamorphosis to the electric anticipation of performing an original rock anthem, this episode is a tribute to the craft. The camaraderie within the Actors Repertory Company, nurtured by director Rob Kempson is palpable as Deborah recounts the collective effort in breathing life into "Rockabye." This is a toast to the ensemble's magic and her own evolution as resident artist and co-artistic producer with ARC.
The conversation...2024-01-1656 min
StageworthyFringe Performer RoundtableTo kick off 2024, Stageworthy host Phil Rickaby convenes a round table discussion of Fringe Festival performers. The months of November and December are when a lot of the festivals on the Canadian Fringe circuit hold their lotteries, and so a lot of performers are planning out their summer touring schedules. In this round table discussion, Phil is joined by Keith Brown, Jess Gorman, Tim Murphy, Sarah Ivanco, Kendall Savage, Georgia Findlay, and Evan Bawtinheimer. These performers share the shows that they will be bringing to Fringe festivals this summer, seasoned touring artists share secrets and tips with artists newer...2024-01-091h 03
StageworthyLowen MorrowIn this episode, host Phil Rickaby, talks with Sex T-Rex member, Lowen Morrow. Together, we explore everything from the dynamic theatre scene in Canada to the origins of D&D live shows, the joys and challenges of self-promotion in the entertainment industry, and much more.
Lowen gives us insight into Sex T-Rex's hit show Swordplay, discussing its physical comedy and evolution over time. Later, we explore the origins of D&D live. Also in the discussion we explore the evolving role of gender identity in their performances, and hear their thoughts on working in a theatre troupe...2023-12-121h 02
StageworthyKatie Kerr & Matthew StodolakGet ready for a holiday treat! This week, host Phil Rickaby chats with Katie Kerr and Matthew Stodolak, as they share the behind-the-scenes details of their new holiday musical, "Chris, Mrs.", a delightful fusion of elements from The Santa Clause and The Sound of Music. We also discuss their unique musical backgrounds and how their differences complement each other perfectly in creating a heartwarming musical experience.
Venture with us as we examine the journey of creating a new Christmas musical in the era of COVID. We highlight the importance of human connection and family traditions during the...2023-12-0553 min
StageworthyAlicia Richardson & Amaka UmehJoin host Phil Rickaby as he talks with the playwright of Sweeter, Alicia Richardson and Assistant Director Amaka Umeh who enlighten us on the creative process behind the play. Set in 1887 Florida, this magical and surreal tale of a talking mango tree and a 7-year-old black girl tackles themes of black womanhood and growing up black. The origins of Sweeter trace back to an ambitious exercise where Alicia penned seven plays in seven days, with many forming the foundation for her other work, Articulation.
We also talk about Amaka's journey to joining the production as assistant director...2023-11-281h 07
Air Quality Matters#2.2 - Peter Rickaby: Lessons from Thamesmead in London and the Damp and Mould CrisisSend us a textPeter Rickaby - Part 2- Lessons from Thamesmead and the damp and mould crisesNow living in South Africa Peter is an Independent Energy and Sustainability Consultant working for the UK housing and building industries.His influence on how we view energy in buildings, risk, retrofit and standards in the UK is wide-ranging and profound.For 35 years from 1982 to 2017, Peter was a Director of Rickaby Thompson Associates, a specialist energy and sustainability consultancy with clients including three UK Government Departments, the Energy Saving Trust, the B...2023-11-0348 minAir Quality Matters#2.1 - Peter Rickaby: Navigating risk in Retrofit, Damp & Mould and the Role of VentilationSend us a textPeter Rickaby - Part 1- Risk in retrofit, moisture balance, standards and more. Now living in South Africa Peter is an Independent Energy and Sustainability Consultant working for the UK housing and building industries.His influence on how we view energy in buildings, risk, retrofit and standards in the UK is wide-ranging and profound. For 35 years from 1982 to 2017, Peter was a Director of Rickaby Thompson Associates, a specialist energy and sustainability consultancy with clients including three UK Government Departments, the Energy Saving Trust, the Building R...2023-11-0350 min