The Expanding Ikigai of Live Theatre in Japan, with Michael Walker
Welcome back to another episode of Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai. This week I am joined by Michael Walker, Founder and Artistic Director of SheepDog Theatre based in Tokyo, Japan. As a lifelong fan of live theatre I know very well the ikigai of being an audience member, but in this episode Michael shares with us what it's like to be involved in the production side of things. From acting to directing and running his own theatre company, Michael gives us a fascinating glimpse into the magic of theatre production in Japan.
If you enjoyed this episode and it inspired you in some way, we’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.
In this episode you’ll hear:
What theatre means to Michael in terms of ikigaiHow Michael got bitten by the theatre bug while visiting EdinburghHow Michael applies lessons learned from sport to live theatreAbout SheepDog Theatre’s beginnings and its current transitionMichael’s advice for people wanting to pursue a seemingly impossible dreamThings mentioned in the episode:
THE LITTLE FELLOW
By Kate Hamill
Directed by Michael Walker
Studio Actre, Tokyo
July 3-7, 2024
Sheepdog Theatre returns to Studio Actre for its production of Kate Hamill’s wickedly funny play, The Little Fellow. The story is based on the real life memoirs of 19th century courtesan Harriet Wilson, who entertained the most powerful men in England of the time. When the famous Duke of Wellington breaks a promise that would set her up for life, she seeks out retribution, not just on him, but all the men who’ve crossed her. The play is simultaneously violent and poignant as it explores themes of identity, societal expectations, and personal transformation.
About Michael:
Michael graduated from Sydney’s Theatre Nepean drama program before working as a professional actor for nearly a decade. After moving to Japan, he formed Maidenagoya Productions, Chubu’s first independent theatre company.
In 2019 he moved to Tokyo and formed Sheepdog Theatre. After a slow start (thanks to the pandemic), Sheepdog Theatre found its momentum in 2023 and is now a fully professional company.
When not being creative, Michael enjoys riding his motorcycle through the many beautiful parts of Japan.
Connect with Michael:
Website: http://sheepdogtheatre.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheepdogtheatre/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheepdogtheatre/
Connect with Jennifer
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershinkai/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifershinkaicoach
Website: https://jennifershinkai.com/
Instagram Coaching and Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/ikigaiwithjennifershinkai/
Instagram Artist: https://www.instagram.com/jennifershinkai/
YouTube:
Ikigai with Jennifer Shinkai
You’ve probably heard of the Japanese concept of “Ikigai” but are wondering how you can successfully apply it to your life. How do you start living a life of purpose, jumping out of bed, excited to face the day?
Join the Tokyo based, British born facilitator and coach, Jennifer Shinkai and her guests to hear real-life stories of how regular people found and integrated their ikigai. Be inspired by how they took their first steps and how their lives have changed.
Still don’t know what you want to be when you grow up? Looking for practical tips to find your ikigai? Then this show is for you.
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