Interview with Shakil Popatia
April Christiansen, 2T7 MAM
Shak has long been passionate about the arts, with a particular focus on music and musical theatre. His journey in the arts began in high school, where his musical theatre and choir teacher had a profound influence on how he viewed the creative community. This transformative experience led to his first major role as Jack in Into the Woods, an opportunity that sparked a lifelong commitment to both performance and fostering opportunities for others to pursue their passions.
Throughout his academic career, Shak remained dedicated to integrating the arts into all aspects of his life. At McMaster University, he joined the Health Sciences Musical Charity, where he not only formed lasting friendships but also mentored successive cohorts of students. In his final year, Shak wrote and directed Children of Health Sci, a musical project that holds deep personal significance for him and has had a lasting impact on the trajectory of his life.
Shak’s passion for storytelling through art has always been a central part of his journey. However, his experience as a director has deepened his understanding of the power of art to give others a platform to share their own stories. This realisation has inspired his current role as the director of the Admissions Video for the University of Toronto, where he aims to create a space for students to express their gratitude and love for the program, while showcasing the diverse voices within the community.
Q: What kind of art do you create, and what inspired you to start?
From a young age, I was naturally drawn to the world of art, beginning with visual arts before moving on to architecture, where I would use bamboo sticks to recreate the Taj Mahal. My artistic journey then expanded into music, with me experimenting both with singing and the trumpet, inspired by icons like Whitney Houston and other legendary artists of that era. Throughout high school, music and artistic expression became essential outlets for me, offering a sense of solace during a challenging time that many can relate to. I had the opportunity to perform in Tuck Everlasting in grade 11 and Mary Poppins in grade 12, which further fueled my passion for the arts. Later, as I joined McMaster’s Health Sciences program, I took on a new role as Director, which shifted my perspective and deepened my respect for theatre. It was here that I discovered the joy of crafting unique roles tailored to individuals' strengths, enhancing the collaborative aspect of this creative process.
Shak (right) pictured post-performance
Q: How do you balance your medical studies with your artistic practice?
This is still a work in progress, but since music and theatre have become integral to my identity and bring me a deep sense of fulfilment, it's important for me to make time to honour this part of myself. I’ve found that scheduling regular "Jam nights" with friends/classmates in medical school has helped me stay accountable and ensure I keep this creative side alive.
It has also been such a blessing to have maintained friendships from all parts of my life with individuals who have inspired my love for music. One of my closest friends, Sarah, has been an integral reminder of why art is meant to be shared with people. Whenever we are stressed or need a break, we find ourselves singing together. Something so simple has given me so much solace. This is especially true as I am in a very big transitionary period of my life.
Q: Do you see any overlap between medicine and art?
For sure I do. I actually wrote one of my application essays on this topic!
Art and medicine are both ever-evolving fields, constantly shaped by new ideas, discoveries, and perspectives that we are continually adapting to.
I would also say that while it is early in my career, being an artist and performer will help deepen my ability to empathize with patients because as an actor I have been trained to step into different perspectives and inhabit someone else’s experience.
Shak (right) performing for TEDxMcMasterU
Q: Is there a particular piece of art that you’ve created that has a significant personal meaning or connection to your medical journey?
Yes, actually! “Children of Health Sci” is the musical I directed in the last year of my undergrad, and its storyline somewhat parallelled my journey to medical school.
The story centred on a protagonist in their fourth year of university, who felt lost and behind in life compared to their peers who had clear post-graduate plans. One day, the protagonist received an acceptance letter to join an exclusive and prestigious circus that promised eternal life – the talk of the town and a dream to many. While all their friends eagerly embarked on their own journeys, the protagonist was left behind, forced to self-reflect and consider whether they would accept this once-in a lifetime opportunity to perform in the circus.
In this alternate reality, eternal life was granted to those who joined the circus, but at a significant cost: they had to relinquish much of their personal freedom. This concept of sacrifice and limitation reminded me of what I imagined medical school might be like—a trade-off between personal desires and the pursuit of something greater.
In the end, the character ultimately has the option to either pursue “eternal life” or choose another path that is personally fulfilling but does not uphold this promise.
This story hinted at my own pre-med experience and made me think about what it would have been like if I had chosen a different path, but I am really happy with where I am now.
“I’ve found that scheduling regular “Jam nights” with friends and classmates in medical school has helped me stay accountable and ensure I keep this creative side alive.”
Q: What projects are you currently involved in?
I am in Daffy! I am also directing the admissions video for UofT medical school - making it more musical and playful. I am also going to be singing at the UofT holiday party and may collaborate with Orbital Groove in the future!
