Joe Staton is a New York-based actor, producer, and emerging playwright whose work bridges classical theatre and deeply personal storytelling. Originally from England, Staton has spent years honing his craft on stage, particularly in Shakespearean productions, while gradually expanding into producing and now playwriting. As a company member of the Ensemble Shakespeare Company and founder of RiffRaff NYC, he is committed to both artistic excellence and supporting immigrant artists.
With his debut play Snazzy set to premiere at the New York Theatre Festival, Staton is turning his family’s extraordinary true story into a compelling stage production—one that explores creativity, ambition, and legacy behind the globally recognized face-paint brand Snazaroo.
In this interview, he reflects on his journey, the emotional roots of Snazzy, and his vision for the future.
What inspired you to turn your parents’ journey into a stage production?
Joe Staton:
My mum wrote a book about her life and the foundation of Snazaroo called A Snazzy Tale. I was born during the rise of the company, but my dad passed away when I was two, and my mum sold the company when I was about six. So I missed out on a lot of that core story—it was such an important chapter in my family’s life.
Reading her book was a huge opportunity for me to better understand my mother, get to know the father I can’t remember, and really connect with my family history. The story completely captivated me. As an actor, I naturally started visualizing it on stage and screen. I told my mum I believed her story deserved to be told.
I actually spent about ten years trying to get someone else to write it because I didn’t have the confidence to do it myself. But eventually, I just sat down and wrote it—and I was amazed by the response.
What themes or messages do you hope audiences take away from Snazzy?
Joe Staton:
There are a lot of themes in the play—grief, love, loss, creativity, ambition. But at its core, it’s about the idea that you can do anything you put your mind to.
Face-painting wasn’t really a recognized industry before my parents. A lot of people didn’t take the idea seriously. But through teamwork and determination, they built something incredible. I’ve seen my mum struggle without support, and it took just one person—my dad—believing in her to change everything.
That’s something I’ve experienced too. She’s been that support system for me in my career. So I hope audiences leave feeling inspired.
How did your mother react when she learned you were turning her story into a play?
Joe Staton:
She said, “Finally!” She’d been encouraging me to do it for years and always believed I was the one who should tell the story.
We did a reading of the second draft in New York last December, and she flew over to watch. Of course, she had notes—but she was genuinely moved, which meant a lot to me.
What surprised you most during the development of Snazzy?
Joe Staton:
Honestly, my own capabilities. I was really nervous about the dialogue—I thought it might come off as flat or awkward.
But hearing actors bring it to life and seeing the audience react was incredible. It showed me that what I’d written actually worked in performance, which was a huge confidence boost.
How has the play evolved from its first draft to the upcoming festival production?
Joe Staton:
There have been a lot of changes—cuts, additions, restructuring. I’ve added scenes to better highlight the obstacles my mum faced.
The actors have also influenced the script in meaningful ways through their interpretations. Now, I’m really excited to see how everything comes together with full staging.
Why do you think this story resonates with audiences today?
Joe Staton:
What’s been fascinating is hearing from people who were actually there when it all happened. After sending out a press release in Somerset, I received messages from people saying they knew my parents or remembered that time.
There’s a real sense of nostalgia and connection. And for those who know or still use Snazaroo, it adds another layer of meaning. It’s a story that bridges generations.
What are your hopes for Snazzy beyond the New York Theatre Festival?
Joe Staton:
I’d love to bring it to the Regal Theatre in Minehead—that’s where Snazaroo originated and where much of the story takes place. It would be incredibly meaningful, especially since my dad is buried there.
Do you see Snazzy expanding into other formats like film or television?
Joe Staton:
Absolutely. As much as I love theatre, I think this story is perfect for television.
It’s set in the 1980s, centered around a recognizable product, and follows a woman navigating the business world with an unconventional idea in a very male-dominated environment. It has all the elements of a compelling series. That’s definitely the long-term goal.
Can you tell us about the cast bringing Snazzy to life?
Joe Staton:
I’m thrilled that some of the cast from the reading are returning. Brenna Peerbolt will play my mother—she’s incredibly talented, with both emotional depth and great comedic timing. We’ve worked together before, and I knew she was perfect for the role.
Ross Mason will play my dad—he brings a real sense of presence and gravitas that the role needs. Truman Gaudoin and Ronan Spierenburg will take on multiple roles in the chorus, both bringing strong energy and versatility. Truman and I are currently in a production together of Pride & Prejudice, and the more I watch him work, the more glad I am that he’s involved. And Ronan is not only an incredibly gifted actor, but he and I are both from Somerset, where this play is set! I’m lucky to have found him.
We’re also joined by Naomi Orange, whose work I really admire, and I’m excited to see what she brings to the production. There are still a couple of roles to cast, but I’m really happy with where we are.
Tell us about your work beyond Snazzy.
Joe Staton:
I primarily work in theatre, especially Shakespeare and classical productions, which I love. I’ll be doing Julius Caesar this summer the Ensemble Shakespeare Company, which I’m so excited for. I’m also producing more now and running my own company, RiffRaff NYC, which focuses on supporting immigrant artists.
I enjoy film as well and definitely want to explore more opportunities in that space moving forward.
With Snazzy, Joe Staton is not just stepping into playwriting—he’s stepping into a deeply personal narrative that honors his family’s legacy while inspiring a broader audience. Through theatre, he continues to explore storytelling in its most human form, blending past and present into something both meaningful and universal.
Snazzy will be performed at the Latea Theatre in New York on July 21st, 22nd, and 25th as part of the New York Theatre Festival.
