Kairi Mace: A Champion of the Stage

Mr. Kairi Mace! Kairi not only graced the stage as a lead in one production at the Jasai Enterprise Theatre Festival, but two! He truly is a champion of actors, carrying immense weight with grace and skill.

Unearthing a Suppressed Passion

Born and raised in Uptown Philadelphia, Kairi's early life was a whirlwind of movement. Despite bouncing between middle schools, a pivotal moment arrived at Benjamin Franklin High School. His Spanish teacher's annual talent show sparked an undeniable "itch." Growing up in Philly, where masculinity often dictated sports over arts, Kairi initially resisted. "We play basketball, we rap," he recalls, "the arts is not something that men do."

Yet, watching from the auditorium's back, a smile crept onto his face. His senior year, he embraced the itch, performing Prince's "Kiss" with full costume and flair.

"From that moment, man, that's when I was like, 'Man, I gotta do this.'"

This artistic inclination wasn't new; Kairi remembers reenacting Power Rangers as a child and envisioning himself in movies like "Die Hard" and "Good Will Hunting." While his family recognized his creativity, formal artistic outlets weren't readily available, and the prevailing societal norms pushed him towards sports and rapping.

The Road Less Traveled: From Film to Footlights

After high school, the acting bug was temporarily suppressed. Kairi attended Penn State for business, but a chance encounter with an audition for the film "The Bid" at 24 years old reignited his passion. Despite admitting his first audition wasn't "good," the experience and encouragement from the film's director, Boom, propelled him forward.

This led him to acting classes with Bernard Glunkowski at The Actors Studio and later to Toby Gadison's Actors District. Toby's emphasis on the "business of acting" resonated deeply, transforming Kairi's perspective from just an actor to an entrepreneurial artist. Networking within these classes brought him numerous film opportunities with talents like Sam Anthony of Unseen Cinema and Devine Jules, culminating in his first leading role in a short film by Felicia Danielle.

Conquering the Stage: A "Divine Order"

Then came the call that would change everything: Courtney Lynee', whom he'd worked with previously, reached out with an opportunity for the Jasai Enterprise Theatre Festival. What happened next floored everyone: Kairi Mace, a seasoned film actor, was stepping onto the theatrical stage for the very first time.

"I had no idea what I was getting into," Kairi admits, but his mantra was "stay ready so you don't gotta get ready."

He was cast in two leading roles – a remarkable feat for a stage debut. He even wanted all three! His transition to theater, a medium many actors suggest tackling before film, was a testament to his dedication and Coach Toby's advice: "If you're really serious about this thing acting, you need to get your ass on stage."

Kairi cherishes the instant gratification and raw energy of live theater, contrasting it with the sometimes tedious, repetitive nature of film. While film offers more chances, the immediate feedback and connection with a live audience on stage are a powerful "drug." His professional demeanor, ability to take direction, and natural lead presence left a lasting impression on Jaret, founder and owner of Jasai Enterprise.

Kairi Mace's journey is a powerful testament to embracing one's true calling, even when societal expectations or personal doubts stand in the way. With a growing resume and an undeniable passion, Kairi is truly a rising star to watch in both film and theater!

Kairi is returning to this year's Jasai Theater Festival in his iconic role of James.

To see him and others this August visit www.JasaiEnterprise.com