michael lawrence ii

peek behind the curtin

journeying from the sun-kissed shores of southern california to the eclectic vibes of wisconsin, through the historic heart of st. louis, the electric buzz of new york city, across to the rich tapestry of london, the vibrant energy of hong kong and singapore, the dazzling allure of las vegas, and back to the comforting embrace of milwaukee, my life has been a vibrant canvas painted with the colors of diverse cultures and experiences. each destination has woven its unique threads into the fabric of my being, enriching my narrative with a global perspective.

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at the heart of my artistic journey lies my education at webster conservatory for acting and directing, where i delved deep into the realms of performance and storytelling. this foundational period was not just about mastering the craft but also about discovering my own voice amid the cacophony of the world's stories.

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the birth of insomniac productions and the weekend play readings series were pivotal chapters in my quest to create a sanctuary for the unconventional and the innovative. insomniac productions stands as a testament to my commitment to exploring the uncharted territories of human emotion and thought, a haven for those who seek the extraordinary in the mundane.

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my passion for the works of stephen sondheim, william shakespeare, neil labute, martin mcdonagh, tennessee williams, anton chekhov, sam shepard, eugene o'neill, henrik ibsen, edward albee, adam guettel, and jason robert brown, among other off-beat creators, reflects my deep appreciation for complex narratives and intricate character studies. these artists inspire me to push boundaries and challenge perceptions, guiding my exploration into the depths of the human psyche.

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beyond the classics, my artistic interests span text analysis, stop-motion animation, and the exploration of masks and the absurd. these dimensions add layers of complexity to my work, allowing me to craft stories that resonate on multiple levels.

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the visionary work of tim burton, christopher nolan, stanley kubrick, peter jackson, jordan peele, and nicolas cage has profoundly influenced my approach to storytelling. their ability to transcend conventional filmmaking and narrative techniques challenges me to think differently, to see the world through a lens tinted with wonder and curiosity.

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at the core of my being lies a relentless quest for understanding the 'why' behind existence. this insatiable curiosity drives my creative process, compelling me to delve into the unspoken, the strange, and the taboo. through insomniac productions, i extend an invitation to embark on this journey of discovery, to question the unquestioned, and to celebrate the beauty found in the world's oddities.

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welcome to my realm, where curiosity reigns supreme, and the pursuit of the extraordinary is the norm. let's embrace the unconventional together and make the extraordinary a reality. let's get weird.