Tracy-walking in lights

My Journey

As a theatre professional, I have had the opportunity to collaborate on countless stage productions over a 20-year tenure, building a respected reputation in the industry for exceptional acting, choreography, and direction. From early on I developed various skill sets and expertise, from Tae Kwon Do and Archery, to various dance disciplines and Yoga Teacher training. My pursuits have taken deeply meaningful turns, and by following these passions I have built a successful career teaching and developing other creatives in expressing themselves through skillful performance techniques, fostering confidence and innovation through knowledge and collaboration.

In 2008, I founded Bumbershoot Theatre, Kelowna’s premier children’s theatre company and non-profit organization focused on fostering creative expression and championing the arts. Through strategic business leadership and dedication, Bumbershoot Theatre became a mainstay in the community, producing over 8 shows per season, delivering countless school-based education programs, and collaborating with institutions to build a strong arts community such as Opera Kelowna, Okanagan Symphony, Festivals Kelowna, Kelowna Art Gallery, and Kelowna Museums. During this time, I received multiple community and industry awards, both in performance and production, and in mentorship.

I continue to evolve professionally, maintaining an active artistic practice and building knowledge of contemporary performance practices. With a Masters (MFA) in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on Performance and Education, and a reputation for inspirational and innovative teaching methods, I have consolidated diverse areas of expertise into an informed, adaptable, and comprehensive approach to performance education and leadership. I have taught performance for Okanagan Symphony Orchestra, School District #23, and various youth and apprenticeship programs, and currently educate on performance practices at University of British Columbia Okanagan.

Tracy-sitting in bw

My Approach

Theatre is a place of action – a place of doing – and this forms the foundation of my teaching practice. I aim to create a place of doing and reflection, on developing knowledge of contemporary techniques and skills, and allowing students to experiment with these approaches in a place of respect, trust, expression and self-reflection. My desire is to create a Brave Space – a space that encourages and celebrates positive risk-taking, welcomes and supports discomfort for growth, and nurtures diversity, inclusion, liberty and collaboration.

Growth is crucial, and as I encourage my students to expand their knowledge while refining their skill and craft, I too seek to continually evolve. My background in Interdisciplinary Studies has given me superior understanding of expanded notions of performance – design-led creation, devised work, immersive performance, and transmedia storytelling. I value diversified, experimental, contemporary approaches to theatre production and performance methods, delivering confident leadership and maintaining an open, engaged and informed artistic and educational practice.