Shael is an award-winning actor and director based in Durham Region. Trained at the Leah Posluns Theatre School under Rose Dubin, Lewis Baumander, and Tom Diamond, he has built a reputation for bringing both humour and emotional depth to the stage. His performances span a wide range of roles, highlighted by his Thea Award–winning portrayal of Ira Drew in It’s Only a Play.
As a director, Shael is known for his collaborative approach and strong storytelling instincts, with credits including the acclaimed productions of Next to Normal and Lost In Yonkers at Whitby Courthouse Theatre. Whether on stage or guiding from the director’s chair, he is recognized as an “actor’s director,” committed to authenticity, precision, and inspiring memorable performances.
Need a copy of Shael’s Stage CV? Help yourself
Shael Risman – Stage Resume – 2021
UPCOMING SHOWS
RABBIT HOLE by David Lindsay-Abaire
RABBIT HOLE by David Lindsay-Abaire
RABBIT HOLE by David Lindsay-Abaire
RABBIT HOLE by David Lindsay-Abaire
RABBIT HOLE by David Lindsay-Abaire
RABBIT HOLE by David Lindsay-Abaire
RABBIT HOLE by David Lindsay-Abaire
RABBIT HOLE by David Lindsay-Abaire
RABBIT HOLE by David Lindsay-Abaire
PAST PERFORMANCE
 | Rabbit Hole – Whitby Courthouse Theatre – April 2026 |
 | Category E – Durham Shoestring Performers – March 2025 |
 | Lost In Yonkers – Whitby Courthouse Theatre – November 2024 |
 | Goodness – Durham Shoestring Performers – November 2022 |
 | It’s Only A Play – Whitby Courthouse Theatre – November 2019 |
 | Rumors – Ajax Community Theatre – February 2019 |
 | Two In The Aisle Three in a Van – Whitby Courthouse Theatre – February 2019 |
 | Next To Normal – Whitby Courthouse Theatre – November 2018 |
 | 12 Angry Men – Ajax Community Theatre – February 2018 |
 | Noises Off! – Oshawa Little Theatre – September/October 2017 |
 | Things My Mother Taught Me – Whitby Courthouse Theatre – April 2017 |
 | August: Osage County – Whitby Courthouse Theatre – November 2016 |
 | Moon Over Buffalo – Whitby Courthouse Theatre – April 2016 |
 | Calendar Girls – Onstage Uxbridge – 2015 |
 | DADS The Musical! – Onstage Uxbridge – October 2015 |
 | 8-Week Scene Study Program for Adults | Join award-winning actor and director Shael Risman for an intimate 8-week Acting Technique & Scene Study program — designed for adults who are ready to dig deep, play hard, and grow their craft. |
 | ONE ON ONE COACHING | Your best performance starts here. Sharpen your craft. Own the stage. Seasoned performers or beginners, this is award-winning coaching for actors who want to stand out. |
