Michael Cain '95
Michael Cain was among the last graduating class of Augusta College in December 1995 before the school changed to Augusta State University. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications in the theatre track at Augusta College, and now is excited that the world premiere of a play he’s written kicks off this month!
Michael grew up in Augusta, moving to the area at age 2. He is a 1989 graduate of Westside High School. He now lives in Westchester County, New York, just north of New York City, with his wife Kristy and their feline friend Bailey.
After graduating from Augusta College, Michael moved around the country, trying to find a job in acting. He’s lived in Atlanta, Cleveland, and of course, New York. During these years, Michael worked in a variety of different environments, and even landed a small role on the soap opera “As the World Turns.”
In May of 2009, Michael earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from Adelphi University on Long Island.
“[Adelphi] gave me a sense of professionalism to establish a career,” Michael said.
Earlier this year, Michael found out that a play he has written will be produced at the 16th annual New York International Fringe Festival. He says it’s a very exciting opportunity for him, especially since new plays are not as frequently produced in the current economic climate.
The play is called “Enough’s Enough!” The story line involves two people—a man and a woman—applying for a job and being hired to work in an office environment. But there are a few problems—they don’t realize when they accept the job that they will be working 24/7 and will be highly discouraged from communicating with one another. Since there are no other workers in the room, there is no one else to communicate with. As the press release for the play states, “Grasping for human connection, will they make the ultimate choice?”
The play is a drama, Michael says, but offers some humor as well.
Michael says his inspiration for the play comes from 20th century playwright Samuel Beckett.
“I’m a huge fan of his work and his style,” Michael said. “I wanted to honor his style by writing ‘Enough’s Enough’.”Around 40,000 people are expected to participate in this year’s New York International Fringe Festival (www.fringenyc.org), which begins August 10, continuing through August 26.
“I do hope to gain the next step as a result of this,” Michael said, referring to the anticipated growth of the play and recognition that may follow.
Michael has fond memories of Augusta College, including playing cards in a corner of Reese Library.“We had a lot of fun back then,” he said.
He remembers rehearsing in the Chateau and spending time with college friends at IHOP across from Augusta National Golf Club.
Michael says the education he received at Augusta College introduced him to the world of theatre.
“It was a huge education in terms of what theatre is,” he said.
He also cites the friendships and network of people as being a valuable part of his time at AC.
In his spare time, Michael enjoys painting and says it’s “relaxing.” He has painted human figures, but not paints more landscapes. He’s not a big fan of television because of the rise of “reality” programming, but he does enjoy watching “30 Rock”, “American Chopper,” “My Big Redneck Vacation,” and most anything on Food Network.
Most of his favorite movies are older films, including “The Godfather”, “Donnie Brasco”, and “Streetcar Named Desire.”
Also, when time permits, he and his wife Kristy enjoy getaways on convenient Long Island.
If you plan to be in New York this month, “Enough’s Enough!” premiers on August 11 with four more performances through the 23rd.