Artist Statement

Theatre has always been there for me – a way to express myself, to help make sense of my changing identity and the world, and later, as a vehicle to help other people navigate their own issues, or simply to put a smile on their faces. I do not come from a silver-spoon existence, and I think my quirky, resilient self has a special ability to connect with people. My experiences allow me to bring truth, vulnerability, and humour to relationships on and off stage. But I am not just bringing myself; I am a culmination of everyone I have ever met and learned from; They come with me onto the stage.

 

Last year I lost my best friend, and shortly afterwards went to see Hadestown on Broadway. I cannot even describe the way experiencing this show helped me open up and process my grief. This is the power we have as theatre artists. It was a reminder to me of my own gift. After putting my theatre career on hold for many years to help family and focusing on my journey as an educator, this was a wake-up call to go back to theatre professionally. I truly believe this is where I can give the most back to the world.

 

I think what we are missing in society in many ways is a sense of belonging and community, and theatre has this power to connect us back to each other and to ourselves, no matter what role we are – cast, crew, audience. This is my goal as an artist – connect, remind, heal.