Debuting Artist: Mikeal Macbeth

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Mikeal takes the stage for the very first time with OpenStage in Reefer Madness!

Mikeal Macbeth Headshot

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got into theatre?
I started social dancing (swing, blues, salsa, etc.) at age 16. One night at a dance, a friend of mine told me that there was a role in a musical they needed to fill. By the next year, I was performing in three shows at once, and then I took my love of the stage to college and studied more there. I suppose there are worse addictions to suffer.
How did you first hear about OpenStage, and what drew you to work with us for this show?

Actually I was nearly in Spamalot years ago. Sadly my schedule didn’t allow for me to accept the role, but I did meet a lot of the group and made a mental note to give it a go again.

What is your role in this production, and what excited you most about working on this particular production?

I am playing Jack Stone primarily. Also, I get a fun feature toward the middle of the show that I won’t spoil. Reefer Madness itself was one of the most exciting aspects.

What has been the most enjoyable or unexpected part of the rehearsal process so far?
It has been quite a while since I’ve joined an almost brand new group of creative minds. I am loving making so many new friends all at once!
What has been the most challenging part of bringing this character to life?
Honestly, this being a comedy, I have struggled with finding the comedy in an extremely villainous character.
Why do you think Reefer Madness is significant or relevant to audiences today?

Reefer Madness is a fascinating and hilarious satire of the 1936 film. Not only is it a wonderful escape from the troubles of life, but it’s also a blast to chuckle at the hysteria that surrounded this subject not that long ago.

What is your favorite moment or scene in the show, and why does it stand out to you?

I’m having a hard time picking a favorite scene. Basically it changes when we rehearse a new scene.

If you could swap roles with any other character in this play for a day, who would it be and why?

Ooo, I would love to be Mae for a day even though I know I couldn’t possibly pull it off like Alex!

Which song in the show is your favorite? Why do you like that one?

“Listen to Jesus, Jimmy” is a fantastic time! I’m sure when we get full costumes it will be even more fabulous!

What is your favorite play or musical?

I’m old-school. It’s a tie between Fiddler on the Roof and The Fantasticks.

What is your favorite role you’ve played in the past? Why was that role special to you?

I got a couple of opportunities a few years back to play the great Lieutenant Cioffi in Curtains. That was after being the understudy for quite some time, and the support from the cast was incredible.

Is there a dream role or type of production you hope to work on in the future?

I haven’t aged into the role yet, but I have dreamed of portraying Tevye when the time is right.

What do you like to do in your free time when you’re not working on theatre projects?

LOL!

Reefer Madness

Book by Kevin Murphy & Dan Studney
Music by Dan Studney
Lyrics by Kevin Murphy
Directed by Kenny Moten

November 2–30, 2024
Playing at The Lincoln Center Magnolia Theatre

Come see Mikeal take the stage in Reefer Madness
November 2-30!

There is a new menace sweeping the nation, ready to ensnare and seduce the youth and drag them down into a life of sin: Reefer Madness! Inspired by the 1936 propaganda film of the same name, this raucous musical comedy takes a tongue-in-cheek look at the hysteria caused when clean-cut kids, Jimmy and Mary Lane, fall prey to marijuana, leading them on a delirious downward spiral filled with jazz music, sex and violence. Full of camp, hilarity, and mayhem—if you get high on laughter you have come to the right place!

CONTENT WARNING: Adult Language. Adult Situations. For specific content and trigger warnings
contact OpenStage- 970-567-7387.

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