From performing on Vancouver Island to bringing characters to life at sea, Michael Joseph’s journey is one powered by passion, hard work and a love for theatre. Michael grew up in Port Alberni and graduated from VIU’s Theatre Diploma program in 2024. Today, he’s working as a Character Performer with Disney Cruise Line.
We caught up with Michael to learn more about his journey and experience:
Why did you choose VIU for your education?
Born and raised in Port Alberni, I have a deep love for the natural beauty and culture of the Island. Being so close to my hometown was also a deciding factor. I cherished being so close to family during my time at VIU and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
Where were you in life when you realized education would help you achieve your goals?
During high school, I had many older friends who completed the same theatre program I went through and they each had amazing things to say about it. I was always a big lover of the arts and performing, so when it came time to choose a university it was honestly a no-brainer that VIU was the place for me.
Tell us a bit about your experience at VIU and in your program
My experience at VIU was nothing short of wonderful. The Theatre program was a hands-on experience. As an actor, it was super fun and interesting learning the behind-the-scenes tech side of things from Robin Boxwell and performing two shows each semester directed by either Leon Potter or Ross Desprez. I’ve carried much of what I’ve learned from them to my career now. Learning the history of theatre from Leon and Eliza Gardiner gave me a deeper insight into and respect for the art I perform.
Were there any unexpected benefits you discovered after becoming a student?
Being able to show my diploma on a resume helps a lot. Many employers do look for something that shows a person can complete a program, which demonstrates a great work ethic. I remember not wanting to complete my time at VIU, but being able to show a diploma on a resume has definitely helped with jobs after graduation, even jobs that aren’t related to the theatre industry.
How did your program prepare you for your current role in the workforce?
Each course I completed prepared me for my current job in more ways than I can imagine. The professors all love what they teach and it shows. The short rehearsal periods for each of the shows were not what I was expecting coming into the program, but once I understood this is how the industry really works, it prepared me for the even shorter rehearsal times I have now.
Can you share an experience where one of your professors made an impact on your learning experience?
I will always remember a note I received from Leon, where he told myself and a co-actor to “melt better” during our run of The Visitor in 2022. This one note gave me the confidence to really be who I am once I’m on the stage. If a director has a note, they will tell you what they want, and it’s my job as an actor to portray that to the best of my ability.
What’s next for you?
I’m not entirely sure what lies in store for myself next. I currently have an eight-month contract working on a cruise ship which could lead to another contract, or maybe I’ll go into another form of acting. As long as I can use knowledge I’ve gained from VIU somewhere in the industry, I’ll be more than willing to do so.
What are you most proud of since completing your program at VIU?
Getting this job with Disney Cruise Line has definitely helped my confidence in my career choice since being at VIU. I hate to say that I felt this could be a terrible career move on my part after leaving university, as I was feeling very self-conscious and did not think this would ever happen. This job has made me more sure of myself in this field.
Tell us more about your job and what you love about it
This job can take me anywhere in the world while bringing a smile to many faces at the same time. Working as a character performer, my job consists of bringing many different classic Disney stories to life to bring happiness and joy to all cruise guests. I have the chance to deliver the Disney magic directly to the faces of any child or adult who will come to see me. My experience with my cast so far has been amazing! I will always remember them and hope to keep in contact with them long after the end of my contract. This job can create lifelong relationships, and I have friends now that I never would have met without accepting this job.
What advice would you give a current theatre student?
I would definitely say you need to go for it! This is a tough industry and one where you will need to get used to hearing “no.” You cannot let that deter you in any way. There is always another audition, you can always send in another resume and always send in another self-tape! Be the biggest “you” that there is, and I guarantee that a director out there is looking for someone just like you. The professors at VIU want you to succeed as much as you want to, and they will have your back no matter what.
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