My Awakening from a ‘Cosmic Coma’ after 10 years
On a dark snowy night, driving on a lost highway, a deer crosses my path, charges my vehicle, leaps through the air, and smashes his antlers through my windshield. Little did I know that that moment was my ‘call to adventure’.
Wide-eyed as a rack of velvet tipped spikes are about to impale my face, my air-bag goes off and pushes my head back to safety. But within that flash of broken glass, I fall into a ‘cosmic coma’, and the deer, like a messenger from the Universe, whispers to me, “Do you want to remain where you are, trapped in an abyss of the past, or will you rise and step into the unknown and discover your destiny?”
For over a decade, my story unravels and provokes me to face my fears and leads me to understand my purpose as an artist, as a coach, as a seeker of truth & beauty in every aspect of life.
My cosmic coma inspired me to delve into a quest to understand the power of story. How all of life follows the pattern of birth, life, death, and then starts again on a new path. That all of creation follows this pattern which is laid on a spiralling framework, continually moving forward, inspiring us to evolve and grow, and learn from our past experiences.
Studying each stage of this winding path has helped me put this framework into practice, and develop a method I call the ‘Monomyth Spiral’.
My development as an artist, began in Western Canada. Where I attended the University of Alberta and studied Drama, Film Studies, English, History, Psychology, Religious Studies, and other courses that shaped my outlook on life. Leading me to pull from these resources and become a professional actor. And soon after, I started coaching, and began to share the knowledge I acquired and put it into practice. Continuing on a path of self development, I went to graduate school at York University and delved deeper into actor training and Theatre. And more recently I started writing: poetry, songwriting, plays, screenplays, and now working on novels and memoirs. Seeing my life grow on this spiral framework has helped me realize the story of my life.
Not only can this method help put perspective on your career path, but also your personal journey as well. This approach can help one to better understand their purpose and to construct their own stories, as artists, as actors, as writers, as creators.
I want to help you find balance, clarity & direction in your stories, by building a foundation found from the ‘source within’ and understanding the story behind every ‘role’ you are asked to play. In work, in life, in all that you do.
Your story matters.
Now let’s discover together:
Why?
Testimonials
“For over twenty years, I've worked with Shomee as a director, producer and writer. Whether it be in front of the camera, or on stage in front of an audience, I know that his performance is one to be appreciated and savored. In understanding the character that you need to become, or reveling in the clarity of your story, Shomee will assist you in connecting with your inner emotions and becoming one with the art you're going to create and embolden. Professionalism and courtesy go hand in hand with him and he'll bring out the best in you.”
— JEFF L. BURKE
writer, director, producer
“Shomee was my first “acting for the camera” teacher. Though it’s been years since I took his class, I’ve carried many of his lessons with me since, and they’ve served me well. As a writer and director, in addition to being a great actor, he knows what it takes to make a performance shine - and he’s able to share that insight with others in a unique way.”
— NEIL CHASE
filmmaker, Brimstone Pictures“I worked with Shomee on many occasions over the years, and I have to say he is fantastic at what he does. He’s great with helping you understand the necessary things to be able to be a great actor or artist. He uses techniques that allows for the artist to move more freely in a space that can be quite restraining. I’ve used his methods and techniques as guides in all the work I’ve done over the course of my twelve years in the entertainment industry. I couldn’t recommend him more for new or veteran actors alike. Whether in a class structure, or privately, he will get the best out of you. You will walk away feeling more rejuvenated with more of an understanding of what you need to do to improve, and get better as an artist moving forward in your career. Study with this man, I promise you won’t regret it.”
— DAMIAN CHAO
actor (ACTRA)“Shomee offers a perspective that allows every human to have their own voice. And he therefore respects every student that crosses his path and listens to his/her voice.
I’ve had this experience with him.
Full of compliments and understanding while offering a nuance of improvement in the craft at hand.
All he expects from me is to share authenticity, a sample of who I am.
And encourages me to enhance THAT aspect of me in performance.”
— DANIEL KATZ
writer, stand-up comedian “Working with Shomee has been an incredible experience. Their coaching has not only helped me refine my artistic skills but also expanded my creative horizons, and have confidence in public speaking. His guidance is insightful and encouraging, making the learning process enjoyable and highly effective. Collaborating with Shomee has truly been transformative, and I highly recommend their coaching to anyone looking to elevate their art and creativity.”
— NIKOLA SYHATHEB
community manager“I love that Shomee’s coaching comes from his knowledge and training in drama as well as his lived experience as an artist and human being. He also brings incredible patience, kindness, mindfulness, and playfulness to the process. Shomee’s sessions helped me gain a better sense of myself as an artist and the courage to explore and express myself more deeply.”
— GEORGIA HATHAWAY
musician, The Feral Fiddler | Medusa Quartet"Enthusiastic, dedicated, and deeply knowledgeable, Shomee ignites passion for the stage and self-discovery in every student. His innovative approach and guidance inspire creativity and confidence, shaping future actors and playwrights with unmatched skill and care."
— NISHA SAJNANI
Associate Professor and Director, Drama Therapy Program - NYU STEINHARDTActing Credits:
THEATRE
Samsaria (Shakespeare's Hamlet) (1996-2011)
Amrit (aka. Hamlet)
Director-Writer: SELF / The Nataraja Studio
Alcestis (2011)
Hercules
Director: Ker Wells / Theatre @ York
Merry Wives of Windsor (2011)
Sir John Falstaff
Director: Tim Askew / Theatre @ York
Arigato, Toyko (2010)
Yori Toshi
Director: Daniel MacIvor / The Banff Centre
The Spadina Monologues (2010)
Queen
Director: Richard Beaune / Foundry Theatre (Toronto)
Titus Andronicus (2009)
Aaron
Director: Marianne Copithorne / Free Will Shakespeare Fest.
Comedy of Errors (2009)
Courtesan
Director: Jeff Page / Free Will Shakespeare Fest.
Jean Anouilh’s Antigone (2009)
The Chorus / Polynices
Director: SELF / The Nataraja Studio
Helen’s Necklace (2008)
Nabil / Foreman / Woman / Man / Vagrant
Director: Vanessa Porteous / UrbanCurvz (Calgary)
Beowulf (2008)
Beowulf
Director: Heather Inglis / APN – Canoe Festival
Boom (2007)
Jules
Director: Heather Inglis / Theatre YES
Velocity (2006)
Jee
Director: Heather Inglis / Theatre YES
R&J: Post Traumatic (Romeo & Juliet) (2006)
Friar Lawrence
Director: Stefan Dzeparoski / University of Alberta
New Canadian Kid (2005)
Nick
Director: Tracy Carroll / Citadel Theatre
The Second Shepherd’s Play (2005)
2nd Shepherd
Director: Heather Inglis / Theatre Prospero
Measure for Measure (2003)
Angelo
Director: Richard Beaune / Edgewise Ensemble
SubUrbia (2003)
Nazeer
Director: Kevin Sutley / Kill Your Television prod.
The Taming of The Shrew (2003)
Petruchio / Christopher Sly
Director: Mark Henderson / Theatre Prospero
Bhopal (2001)
Devraj
Director: Jack Langedijk / Teesri Duniya (Montreal)
Lady Macbeth (2001)
Macbeth / Lady Macbeth
Director: Clare Fogal / University of Alberta
Much Ado About Nothing (2000)
Dogberry
Director: Kathleen Arnold / Theatre Prospero
The Tempest (1999)
Ferdinand / Triniculo
Director: Mark Henderson / Theatre Prospero
Toyer (1999)
Peter Matson
Directors: SELF, Nisha Sajnani / The Nataraja Studio
Henry IV, Part One (1996)
Poins / Mortimer / Prince John
Director: John Hudson / Shadow Theatre
Death and the Maiden (1995)
Gerardo Escobar
Director: SELF / The Nataraja Studio & United Nations
Traced Roots (1995)
Shadow Puppet Narrator
Director: Ruth Smilie / Catalyst Theatre
Master Harold and the Boys (1994)
Krisna (aka. Sam)
Director: SELF / The Nataraja Studio & United Nations
The World of Apu (1994)
Apu Kumar Ray
Director: SELF / The Nataraja Studio
Afta' Nafta Caberet (1994)
Pedro / Salivas / company
Directors: Ruth Smilie / Dan Chumley / Ed Martinez / Catalyst Theatre
Marlowe’s Doctor Faustus (1993)
Mephistopheles ‘intelect’ / Robin / Helen of Troy
Director: Will Zaichkowski / University of Alberta
Hero Bound (1993)
The Manager / Chorus
Director: Kent Staines / Citadel Theatre
Danton's Death (1993)
Danton
Director: Collective / King Alfred's College (England)
Blues (1991)
Chief of Security
Director: Greg Dowler-Coltman / Citadel Theatre
Radio Free Music (1988)
Mark / company
Director: Jan Selman / Citadel Theatre
Acting Credits:
FILM & TELEVISION
Friar Lawrence’s Cell (2014)
Friar Lawrence (lead)
Directors: SELF / J Smith / The Nataraja Studio / Sir I’m Not
One Message & Counting (2009)
Caleem (lead)
Director: Josh Kyrzyk / One Message prod.
Mixed Blessings (#2-12: Mick & Vicky?) (2008)
Head Trauma patient (s.o.c.)
Director: Francis Damberger / APTN / Prairie Dog Film & TV
Reverie (2008)
Tony / Anthony (lead)
Director: Brendan Murray / Reverie prod.
Will I...? (2007)
Angel (lead)
Director: SELF / The Nataraja Studio
Fitz (2007)
Ron (principal)
Director: Jeff L. Burke / Who Made Who prod.
G & G: Saint Fiction (2006)
Mr. Benson (principal)
Director: Jeff L. Burke / Who Made Who prod.
Torretta Eccellente 2020 (2005)
Carmelo (lead)
Director: Tom Bernier / Sixth Sheep Films
The Diner (2005)
Detective Buchan (principal)
Director: Cameron Fedor / FAVA
Thrashed (2004)
Jimmy Wing, lawyer (principal)
Director: Doug Cole / Image Works
Flush with Greatness (2003)
Dan (lead)
Director: Tom Bernier / Sixth Sheep Films
Office Jerk (2002)
Lowly Office Guy (lead)
Director: Tom Bernier / Sixth Sheep Films
The Calling of Andrew (2001)
Andrew (lead)
Director: Randy Ritz / Big Story prod. & Standard Publ.
Mentors (#2-10: The Fire Ship) (2000)
Corp. Executive (s.o.c.)
Director: Rob W. King / Mentors II prod.
The Audition (2000)
The Actor (lead)
Directors: SELF / Nisha Sajnani / The Nataraja Studio
Mentors (#1-8: A Transient, Shining Trouble) (1999)
Reporter (s.o.c.)
Director: Michelle Boniface / Mentors I prod.
The New Brid (1998)
The Alter Boy (lead)
Director: Phil Zyp / Independent
The Unabridged History of Man (1997)
Macker (lead)
Director: Bali Panesar / Independent
The Student (1993)
Number Two (lead)
Directors: SELF / Chris Lambert / King Alfred's Collage (England)
Crimson Lotus Writers’ Salon (December 2024-Present)
Host / Writer
Producers: SELF / Mogaraa (EMU Magazine)
Replay Storytelling presents: All in the Family (2024)
Storyteller
Producer: Replay Storytelling
Crimson Lotus Writers’ Circle (2021-Present)
Host / Writer
Founder / Producer: SELF / Mogaraa
Hibiscus Writers’ Circle (online) (2020)
Co-Host / Writer
Producer: Andrey Malkov
Everything Is Not Going To Be OK ACT IV: a Pop-Up Performance Festival Online (2020)
Singer - Songwriter
Producer: New York University - Steinhardt
Boomerang presents: Creative Writing Series (2020)
Instructor
Producer: Boomerang RBC Ventures
Boomerang presents:
Storytelling 101 (2020)
Instructor
Producer: Boomerang RBC Ventures
The Art Bar Poetry Series (2020)
Featured Poet
Producer: The Art Bar
Boomerang presents: Intro to Storytelling (2019)
Instructor
Producer: Boomerang RBC Ventures
Confabulation (TO) presents: Masquerade (2018)
Storyteller
Producer: Confabulation (TO)
Confabulation (TO) presents: (Be)Longing (2017)
Storyteller
Producer: Confabulation (TO)
Hibiscus Writers’ Circle (2014-2019)
Writer
Producer: Andrey Malkov