From Magic Castle to Broadway: Michael Shayan’s Journey as The Gay Persian Who Plays His Own Mother
Release Date: 02/09/2026
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info_outlineIn this delightful and heartfelt conversation, hosts Sarah J. Halstead and Rich Chassler welcome Emmy-nominated actor, writer, and magician Michael Shayan for an engaging discussion about family, identity, theater, and the transformative power of storytelling. From his early days as a 12-year-old magician at the Magic Castle to his critically acclaimed one-man play about his Persian mother, Michael shares his remarkable journey through entertainment with humor, vulnerability, and grace.
Michael Shayan - Emmy-nominated writer, actor, and former magician
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Instagram: @MichaelShayan https://www.instagram.com/michaelshayan
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Follow him on all platforms: Michael Shayan
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Current Project: Audible play “Cruising” featuring Christine Baranski and Tituss Burgess (available now on Audible)
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Family Dynamics
03:04 The Magic of Performance and Personal Stories
05:40 Exploring Identity and Coming Out Experiences
08:27 Theater and Relationships with Family
11:04 Creating a Play from Personal History
13:57 The Journey of a Play: From Concept to Stage
16:25 The Impact of Cultural Stories in Theater
19:11 The Role of Humor in Addressing Serious Topics
22:09 Theater as a Healing Experience
24:59 Broadway Dreams and Future Projects
27:47 Navigating the World of Performance
30:28 The Joy of Performing and Audience Connection
33:13 Reflections on Success and Adversity
36:08 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors
PROJECTS MENTIONED
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“Avaaz” - Michael’s one-man play about his Persian mother
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National tour continuing through 2025
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Upcoming: Theatre J in Washington DC (June 2025)
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Directed by Moritz von Schipnagel (Tony-nominated)
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Set design by Bill Wolf Barrett (Tony winner)
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“Book of Queer” (HBO) - Emmy-nominated documentary series
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Michael served as writer and consulting producer
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“Drunk history but for queer history”
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Features celebrities reenacting LGBTQ+ historical moments
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“Cruising” (Audible) - Available now
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Audio play starring Michael Shayan, Christine Baranski, and Tituss Burgess
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Available on Audible
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“The Big Everything” (Short Film)
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Directed by Sal Paskowitz
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Starring Michael Shayan, Bradley Whitford, and Jimmy Wolk
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Produced by Andrew Carlberg and Gil Cates Jr.
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Playing the festival circuit
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Upcoming Broadway Debut - Details TBD
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Featuring “some of the finest actors in New York”
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Under NDA at time of recording
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Michael’s warmth, humor, and vulnerability make this a deeply engaging conversation that moves from hilarious to heartfelt and back again. Whether you’re a theater lover, someone with “mom stuff,” or just appreciate a good story told beautifully, this episode delivers.
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Rich
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