Shows
Sarnia FamousKyra KnightHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Kyra Knight. Kyra is Sarnia Famous due to her extensive involvement in shows both with Diversion Entertainment and the Imperial Theatre including her recent role in smash hit RENT.
2025-06-2737 min
Sarnia FamousKelsey EdwardsHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Kelsey Edwards. Kelsey is Sarnia Famous due to her role in the Cinderella ensemble not to mention her knockout performance as Kat in Mom's Gift at the Imperial Theatre. Apologies there is one F bomb in this episode so please shield your children accordingly.
2025-05-2332 min
Sarnia FamousREBROADCAST - Kathryn ForristalCelebrating three years of podcasting with these rebroadcasts - This episode features the vibrant, creative and gentle-hearted Kathryn Forrestal!
2025-04-2635 min
Sarnia FamousTia ColborneHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Tia Colborne. Tia is Sarnia Famous due to extensive involvement in several Imperial Theatre’s shows, both on and off stage. You may also know Tia as the Artistic Director for Great Lakes Dance Academy. Kind of an exciting episode, and I don't get out much, so i drop a couple F bombs and various other curses so please shield your children accordingly.
2025-03-2944 min
Sarnia FamousSara DunnHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Sara Dunn. Sara is Sarnia Famous due to backstage involvement in several Imperial Theatre’s shows, including most recently Set Design and Décor Lead for Misery.
2025-03-0133 min
Sarnia FamousJeffrey WinterHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Jeffrey Winter. Jeff is Sarnia and Petrolia Famous due involvement in several local performances, most notably his upcoming standout role as Paul Sheldon in the Imperial Theatre’s Misery by Stephen King.
2025-01-2426 min
Sarnia FamousREBROADCAST - David EnglesonCelebrating three years of podcasting with these rebroadcasts - just in time for the holidays its Kris Kringle AKA David Engleson.
2024-12-1937 min
Sarnia FamousREBROADCAST - Devan WalesCelebrating three years of podcasting with these rebroadcasts. Enjoy this lovely visit with multi-talented Devan Wales!
2024-12-1649 min
Sarnia FamousNorm FrancoeurHappy Friday theatre lovers! For many, this next guest requires no introduction. Norm Francoeur is Sarnia Famous due to almost 40 years of theatre experience in Sarnia and beyond including his upcoming role as Buster in Theatre Sarnia’s Misery.
2024-11-2932 min
Sarnia FamousREBROADCAST - Halloween Special: Jane Janes & Devan WalesCelebrating three years of podcasting with these rebroadcasts. Enjoy the extra special Halloween show! Featuring Jane Janes and a cameo from Devan Wales.
2024-11-0153 min
Sarnia FamousSandra MogensenHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Sandra Mogensen. Sandra is Sarnia Famous due to her musical involvement in several of the Imperial Theatre’s shows, including most recently Cinderella. You may also know her as a piano teacher, voice coach, or from the super successful Piano Music She Writes Youtube channel. A couple of tiny b-grade swears in this episode so shield your children accordingly.
2024-10-2635 min
Sarnia FamousRebroadcast: Talia Weeks (Mielke)Celebrating three years of podcasting with these rebroadcasts. First up: delightful Talia Weeks (Mielke).
2024-10-2016 min
Sarnia FamousMartin LachapelleHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Martin Lachapelle. Martin is Sarnia Famous due to his Ensemble role in the Imperial Theatre’s White Christmas. You may also know him from his extensive theatre experience in the Chatham-Kent area.
2024-09-2728 min
Sarnia FamousDiane VisserHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Diane Visser. Diane is Sarnia Famous due to her extensive backstage experience at the Imperial Theatre; not to mention her upcoming directorial debut with ‘Mom’s Gift’.
2024-08-1629 min
Sarnia FamousMark RoundingHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Mark Rounding. Mark is Sarnia Famous due to recent performances in the Imperial Theatre’s Tarzan and The Little Mermaid!
2024-06-2833 min
Sarnia FamousHolly WenningHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Holly Wenning. Holly is Sarnia Famous due to her extensive career with The Imperial Theatre; including her recent performance in ‘Halfway There’ for which she won ‘Best Performance – Supporting Role’ at the 2024 WODL festival.
2024-06-0731 min
Sarnia FamousRachelle LacroixHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Rachelle Lacroix. Rachelle is Sarnia Famous due to recent extensive backstage work as a Theatre Technician at the Imperial Theatre; as well as being a volunteer at the Imperial since the age of 10!
2024-04-1932 min
Sarnia FamousKieran CorlessHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Kieran Corless. Kieran is Sarnia Famous due to his performances in the Imperial Theatre’s War of the Worlds, Clue, and recently a Murder Mystery with the Imperial City Brew House.
2024-04-0528 min
Sarnia FamousMike HarfordHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Mike Harford. Mike is Sarnia Famous due to his extensive backstage work as the Sound Technician at the Imperial Theatre. You may also know him from his CHOK radio work; Muffins with Mike, anyone?
2024-03-2242 min
Sarnia FamousJessie RandallHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Jessie Randall. Jessie is Sarnia Famous due to her recent performance in the Imperial Theatre’s White Christmas. You may also know her work with student support at Lambton College, or her involvement in various local house league sports teams!
2024-03-0830 min
Sarnia FamousLinda GueretteHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Linda Guerette. Linda is Sarnia Famous due to her performances in the Imperial Theatre’s Nightingale Chorus and White Christmas, and one could argue Petrolia Famous too for her performances in Anne of Green Gables and up next The Curious Savage with the Petrolia Community Theatre.
2024-02-2330 min
Sarnia FamousAmy PachecoHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Amy Pacheco. Amy is Sarnia Famous due to her performances in the Imperial Theatre’s Broadway Jukebox summer series, Beauty and the Beast, White Christmas and perhaps the most memorable, gorgeously singing atop the theatre’s marquee in Step into Christmas. She’s also exceptionally talented with the hairs Norton Hairstyling. On with the show!
2024-02-0934 min
Sarnia FamousJaysea CowenHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Jaysea Cowen. We chat about the post show blues, the competitive dance scene, intensive feline characterization and much more. Jaysea is the whole package - grace, humility, talent in abundance and is somehow simultaneously both polished and super chill. On with the show!
2024-01-1934 min
Sarnia FamousSiobhan MogensenHappy Friday theatre lovers and Happy New Year! This weeks guest is Siobhan Mogensen. We chat about knitting, scatting, resisting end goals and living in the moment and so much more. Siobhan is a crafty, charming, soft spoken dreamer with fantastic subtle humor. On with the show.
2024-01-0532 min
Sarnia FamousDar-C KeaneHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Dar-C Keane. We chat about country singing babysitters, psychological warfare aka pranking, and Dar-C plays it super cool while my cat maims my face. Dar-C has more life experience than most people I know and is some how bubbly at the same time as radiating a natural calm about her. On with the show.
2023-12-0835 min
Sarnia FamousAlaina GeorgeHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Alaina George. We chat about metallica cover bands, learning styles, gluten-free chocolate and much much more. Alaina is a natural storyteller, hilarious and confident. Coupla f-words in this one cuz I was a little tired but I did my best to edit them out. On with the show.
2023-11-2433 min
Sarnia FamousKate StokleyHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Kate Stokley. We chat a bit about her theatre origin story, how she approaches character development, White Christmas stuff and much more. Kate is naturally approachable, cheerful and warm. On with the show.
2023-11-1137 min
Sarnia FamousRaia DenleyHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Raia Denley. We discuss the mystery of wet dog smell, her natural skill for listening to music backward, her involvement in a multitude of crafts including award winning dog costumes and much more. Raia is engaging, incredibly artsy and talented and quick to laugh. There is one b-level swear, so shield your children accordingly. On with the show.
2023-10-2129 min
Sarnia FamousDevon LairdHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Devon Laird. We chat Chevy Chase, board games, baby names, Christmas to the max and much more. Devon is family-oriented, genuine, and has his heart on his sleeve. On with the show.
2023-10-0731 min
Sarnia FamousNick CampbellHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Nick Campbell. We talk about the cat formerly known as Albus, hereafter known as Elvis, his theatre experience, he sets a new bar for me for auditions and much more. Nick is good natured, quick to laugh, and a cat parent after my own heart. On with the show.
2023-09-2330 minSarnia FamousBrody FitzpatrickHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Brody Fitzpatrick, take 2! We chat about having bees for feet, I learn what a frisson is, his theatre origin story and much more. Brody is insightful and super easy to talk to. On with the show.
2023-09-0931 minSarnia FamousLiam Ingram AKA Benz MenovaHappy Friday drag lovers! This weeks guest is Liam Ingram AKA Benz Menova. We chat about just about everything: improv, substance abuse and recovery, the current drag climate and just a little bit about ghosts. Liam is open and deeply sincere, unapologetic about his style of drag but also diplomatic and considerate in the way he presents his views. Warning, I say the F-word a few times in this episode, and some of the content may be a trigger if you, or someone you love, has struggled with addictions. So please take care. On with the show.
2023-08-2538 minSarnia FamousMikayla LozonHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Mikayla Lozon. We chat about her various gigs including teaching singing to little kids, singing at churches, theatre, and my personal fave - wedding singing! Mikayla is very modest, despite being extremely talented, as well as tenacious and sincere. On with the show.
2023-08-1127 minSarnia FamousRemembering AnthonyHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks episode is a very special one: Remembering Anthony. Huge thank you to everyone who joined us to record this special tribute, to Adam Forristal for taking care of techy stuff, and to Andrea Matthews for organizing venue, invitations, and dispensing much needed hugs. On with the show.
2023-06-091h 27Sarnia FamousTake Flight! BCC & Wavesong Event June 2023Happy Friday theatre lovers! I'm sneaking an extra mini episode in this month on behalf of Rachel Giacomin and the Bluewater Chamber Choir and the Wavesong Vocal Ensemble and their exciting upcoming event titled: Take Flight! On with the show.
What: A choral concert featuring EXCLUSIVE NEW SONGS!!!!
When: On Friday, June 23 at 7:30pm and Saturday, June 24 at 2:00pm
Where: Grace United Church - 990 Cathcart Blvd, Sarnia.
No tickets necessary but donations graciously accepted on behalf of the Women's Interval Home.
2023-06-0222 minSarnia FamousJohn MaitlandHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is John Maitland. We nerd out about the Simpsons, he even does a couple of the voices which is awesome, he indulges near-endless questions about being a police officer and much more. John has a disarmingly cool demeanor, is a natural storyteller, and effortlessly switches from being jovial to serious without missing a beat. On with the show.
2023-05-2636 min
Sarnia FamousBrennah Freer & Brody FitzpatrickHappy Friday Sondheim lovers! This weeks guests are Brennah Freer and Brody Fitzpatrick here to give us the skinny on their special Sondheim Tribute Revue on May 27th. Their excitement is contagious and I'm sure you will be as keen to see the tribute as I am. On with the show.
2023-05-1134 min
Sarnia FamousAndrea MatthewsHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Andrea Matthews. This is an important interview for me, Andrea has a special place in my theatre journey, and I’m super delighted she was able to make the time. We chat about how stage management can evolve depending on the dynamic with the director, her desire to work with new-to-her directors, and I think you’ll be as shocked as me to learn she’s maybe not as organized as you think she is. Andrea is direct, focused, and determined but also warm, loving and kind. On with the show.2023-04-2836 min
Sarnia FamousEve VritsiosHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Eve Vritsios. We talk about Eve’s personal strategy to the roles she takes in theatre, the hazards of taking prop work home, why a big heart leads to an excess in cats, and so much more. Eve is an absolute delight of a human: sweet, modest, thoughtful, and has an adorably infectious laugh. On with the show!
2023-04-1441 min
Sarnia FamousShawn ChapmanHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Shawn Chapman. We nerd out about videogames, Shawn’s plethora of cool hobbies, adhd and so much more. Shawn is clever, quick on his feet, and when it comes to my random line of questioning, such a good sport. On with the show.
2023-03-3137 minSarnia FamousDillon Brighton AKA PoisonHappy Friday drag lovers! This week’s guest is Dillon Brighton AKA Poison. We chat about the soothing qualities of water, the art to selecting music for drag performances, the climate of drag right now and so much more. Dillon is professional, well spoken, and well prepared but with a punk rock vibe. On with the show. https://linktr.ee/whatsyourpoisonxo
2023-03-2429 min
Sarnia FamousAshley CarlisleHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Ashley Carlisle. We chat about her passion for all the intricacies of directing, including trusting your cast and crew to bring their own shine to a show and the anxieties on both sides of auditions. We also chat a bit about Clue and Ashley lets us in on a few behind the scenes secrets. Ashely is radiant and intelligent but also has a gentle warmth that makes her sense of humor a delightful surprise. On with the show.
2023-03-1044 minSarnia FamousEmily Johnson REBROADCASTThis is still easily one of my favorite episodes. Thrice we re-recorded this interview thanks to technical difficulties. Emily is a patient, positively delightful human and I still so appreciate her sense of humor and willingness to roll with the technical punches. Some adult content in this one; shield your children accordingly.
2023-02-2431 minSarnia FamousBethany Tiegs REBROADCASTAnother great episode for rebroadcast! Bethany is a super chill and hilarious human and we chat about her bazillions of talents: dancing, acting, directing puppetry...you name it she's probably done it!
2023-02-2434 min
Sarnia FamousLiz WaltonHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Liz Walton. .We chat about how she accidentally became an on-stage polygamist, Rex’s future theatre career, her passion for purple and much more. Liz is a riot, I wish you guys could see her facial expressions and mannerisms, although I'm sure you'll have almost as much fun listening as I did recording this interview. On with the show.
2023-02-1043 min
Sarnia FamousClaire RossHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Claire Ross. We chat about big changes in education, her theatre experience, the importance of finding your own group of weirdos in life and much more. Claire is charming, chill, and super easy to talk to. On with the show.
2023-01-2839 min
Sarnia FamousChristopher MacPhersonHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Christopher MacPherson. Chris made time for me during his VERY busy schedule being in like all the Imperial Theatre shows lately. We chat about this busy schedule as well as how Chris struggles with imposters syndrome paired with strong tenacity to achieve what he wants. Chris is jovial, quick to laughter, as well as modest and kind. On with the show.
2023-01-1345 min
Sarnia FamousKris Truchan AKA Molly KewlHappy Friday drag lovers! This week’s guest is Kris Truchan AKA Molly Kewl. We chat about music, fashion, I learn what marathon drag is and much more. Kris is charming and charismatic and I’m sure you will be as beguiled by Kris’ historical knowledge of queer spaces as I was. Important note, there are quite a few swears in this episode so shield your children accordingly.
2022-12-3042 min
Sarnia FamousSam ReganHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Sam Regan. We talk about balancing night shift and theatre, why Mrs. Potts was a match for her, Disneyland and like a lot about migraines. Sam is bubbly, sweet, just a little ball of sunshine to chat with… although I should mention there is a smidge of foul language in this one, ironically, so shield your children accordingly.
2022-12-1652 min
Sarnia FamousCrystal FachHappy Friday drag lovers! This week’s guest is Crystal Fach. We talk about so much in this episode and I learned so much writing this intro felt near impossible. The evolution and importance of language, diversity, inspiring past programming and future exciting events and so so much more. Crystal is informed, well spoken and radiates fierceness, but is also warm and patient. On with the show.
2022-12-0237 min
Sarnia FamousTroy ZimmerHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Troy Zimmer. We chat about his experiences with anxiety at a young age and how they are contributing to finding passion in post secondary, understanding societies impact on us as well as the potential to change that impact, and much more. Troy is sincere, crazy smart, and has emotional intelligence that far surpasses his age. Plus, he’s the best darn winkie a witch could ask for. There are a couple minor swears in this episode, nothing drastic I promise. On with the show.
2022-11-1842 min
Sarnia FamousSara JoyHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Sara Joy. We chat about her love of learning, how music has inspired global travel, how music educators were impacted by the pandemic and much more. One of my favorite things about doing this show is listening to people nerd out about things they are passionate about and this episode is a prime example. Sara’s multifaceted passion for music and it’s influences will make you wanna nerd out too. You won’t be able to help yourself. On with the show.
2022-11-0543 min
Sarnia FamousDave (Dayve) DoucetteHappy Friday DRAG lovers! This week’s guest is Dave (Dayve Doucette) AKA Amanda Villa or affectionately, Mandy. For those who know me well, I flippin adore drag queens so I was a complete star struck nervous mess for this interview, but I promise, Dave’s boundless charm offsets this. We chat about how hockey played a large part in launching Dave’s drag career, how listening is one of the most important parts of being a successful queen, some of the behind the scenes and much more. Dave exudes authenticity and possesses an effortless grace in and out of dra...2022-10-2146 min
Sarnia FamousMax MajorHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Max Major. I accidentally lied to Max, he is episode two of season 2. My bad, sorry Max. In today’s episode what don’t we talk about! Big career changes, the evils of social media, what planned spontaneity means and much more. A few swears in this one, tried to bleep ‘em but shield your children accordingly. On with the show.
2022-10-0751 min
Sarnia FamousDave MitchellHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Dave Mitchell. We talk about how missing football try outs changed the course of his life, the many layers to fight choreography, why staying in the moment is crucial in theatre and much more. Dave is thoughtful and direct and openly shares his experiences with a light sense of humor. On with the show.
2022-09-2340 minSarnia FamousSuper Special Bday EpisodeHello theatre lovers and welcome to the super special birthday episode! The surprise guest was – me! Brian Austin Jr. was busy. HUGE thank you to Adam Forristal for producing this and to Brent Wilkinson for co-hosting and most of all to those who attended the event to cheer us on. Warning: explicit language; shield your children accordingly. On with the show.
2022-09-2056 minSarnia FamousSF Bday Party & Season 2 AnnouncementsHappy Friday theatre lovers! No episode posted today because tomorrow I am taking over the Refined Fool on London. Join me for a live episode with a surprise guest! If that's not enough to tantalize you there will be 1/2 price bottles $5 glasses of wine and $6 beer cocktails. The live episode also marks the end of season 1! For season 2 Ive decided to start publishing episodes biweekly instead of weekly to open myself up for more creative opportunities and to hopefully find time to expand this project. I'm also on the hunt for volunteers to help Sarnia Famous in the tech a...2022-09-1701 minSarnia FamousAlexa De CarolisHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Alexa De Carolis. We talk about her very first role in a Theatre Sarnia production, what coordinating makeup during the pandemic looked like, the case of the missing nose and much more. Alexa holds a lot of bright positive energy in a tiny little package and was a delight to interview. On with the show.
2022-09-0943 minSarnia FamousRebroadcast: Richard TeskeyOOOOOOOOOOKlahoma.... ok now that that song is stuck in your head please enjoy this episode featuring Richard Teskey where he explains how 90s brain drain, Oklahoma and a dare launched his theatre career.
2022-09-0248 minSarnia FamousRebroadcast: Ron PaskThe nostalgia continues with this lovely episode featuring Mr. Ron Pask.
2022-09-0241 minSarnia FamousRebroadcast: Ryan MetzlerI feel guilty not publishing this week so I thought: give the people two rebroadcasts! This episode with Ryan stands out as probably the most random, in terms of topics: chest hair, on stage nudity, mental health, and of course furry pastry men. You're welcome.
2022-08-2635 minSarnia FamousRebroadcast: Jay PeckhamHard to believe its almost been a year since this first recording. I remember thinking I would incorporate games of into every episode...until I realized there was so much richness in what the guests had to say I didn't need them. Thanks Jay, for rolling with this and saying yes to the episodes no questions asked.
2022-08-2642 minSarnia FamousMia AbateHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Mia Abate. We nerd out about musicals, her evolving career path, and we talk about food, a lot; in fact, you should probably have a snack before listening to this, just in case. Mia has a way with words and simultaneously exudes youthful vigor and sage wisdom and she’s also just super fun to talk to. On with the show.
2022-08-1945 minSarnia FamousChris MolyneauxHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Chris Molyneaux. We chat about what music school auditions are like, the importance of diversifying as a musician and Chris shares a super incredible story about how not being afraid to put yourself out there can really pay off. Chris’ light burns bright in everything he does, and I know you will finish this episode feeling just as inspired as I did interviewing him. On with the show
2022-08-1244 minSarnia FamousAndrea Hughes ColemanHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Andrea Hughes Coleman. We nerd out about alphabetizing and spreadsheets, the beauty of live music, and of course she tells me stories of her hilarious improv escapades. Theres also an epilogue of sorts added at the end where on a different day, Andrea tells me all about the fabulous spreadsheet she has created for the Imperial Theatre. Andrea has an infectious laugh and bright smile to match and is just the kind of lady you want to go for a beer with because you know it will be a blast. On...2022-08-0545 minSarnia FamousJan Walker-HoltHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Jan Walker-Holt. We chat about paying your dues as a director, why one should maybe understand emojis if they doing improv, and how much fun cameo roles can be. Jan is warm, matter of fact, and is living proof that blondes and character actors have more fun! On with the show.
2022-07-2944 minSarnia FamousTrevor MorrisHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Trevor Morris. We chat about how the set is like an extra actor with its own part to play in a show, his controversial opinion about Disney, and about his true passion: set building. Trevor speaks so highly of his peers its hard not to be instantly fond of the guy. Before we start, I should say there is one b-grade swear in here so shield your children accordingly. I was going to edit it out but Trevor’s reaction to it was too funny.
2022-07-2245 minSarnia FamousDarryl HeaterHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Darryl Heater. We talk about how theatre began an easy credit and evolved into so much more, what its like to hand pick a costume from the Stratford collection, and how he and friends are super successful at playing videogames to raise money! This blew my mind. Darryl was so patient with my relentless questioning about the videogame thing and was so easy to talk to I just about forgot I was conducting an interview. On with the show.
2022-07-1549 minSarnia FamousPaul SkuzaHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Paul Skuza. Paul is a passionate dude who speaks highly of his family, music, and fitness. We chat about how his music career evolved from being rock star musician to a rock star thespian, the joys of playing the heel in a show and what his exciting future theatre plans look like. On with the show.
2022-07-0943 minSarnia FamousJonathan LawrenceHappy Canada Day theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Jonathan Lawrence. Jonathan is self reflective, empathetic, and easy to relate to. We talk about how his experience playing a man playing a woman on stage gave him a tiny glimpse into how culture shapes women’s perspectives of their own bodies, how dungeons and dragons has taught him to roll with the punches of life, and we even chat a bit about Brene Brown.
2022-07-0148 minSarnia FamousShane DavisHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Shane Davis. My conversation with Shane was a little form of therapy for me; we talk about being an extroverted introvert, an ongoing theme on the show, and he shares some excellent advice for social anxiety which I have actually taken to since speaking to him. Shane is a great listener, a natural people person, and shares with me about his 20+ years on the stage. He is also a bit of a trickster and there may be a couple of F-Bombs at the end of this episode as a result of...2022-06-2453 minSarnia FamousHilary DutourgeerlingHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is my better half from Wizard of Oz, Hilary Dutourgeerling. Hilary and I talk about what its like to play your dream character and the pressure that goes into honoring both your childhood dreams and those of others. We also talk about how she has honed her craft with singing and improv classes and the types of classes she would like to do in future. Hilary organized, thoughtful, and although she is immensely talented she is super easy to talk to.
2022-06-1738 minSarnia FamousJulie CushmanHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Julie Cushman. Julie and I chat about characterization and how some roles have stuck with her over time, how to distance yourself from difficult content as an actor, and she shares with me a varied and vast assortment of shows it sounds like we should all check out when we get a chance. Julie is warm and high energy in an inspiring and contagious way, but my favorite thing about Julie is her passion for quirky pet themed décor – a woman after my own heart. Oh! I should mention there is...2022-06-1049 minSarnia FamousRachel GiacominHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Rachel Giacomin: voice coach extraordinaire. Rachel walks me through her calling as a voice coach, including the wide variety of clients she assists and the even more varied reasons they require her assistance. She also talks about being in a choral group and how some towns are just more into it than others. Rachel is sincere, genuine, and clearly invested in her career and her clients; not only that she is, and I speak from experience, the high queen of pep talks.
2022-06-0344 minSarnia FamousValerie SchmidtHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Valerie Schmidt. Val is a funky, tatted, altruistic babe with maybe a bit of a mischievous side. We chat about the unique and surprising way keyboards are used in theatre productions, how being on the keys grants her access to parts of the theatre process not everyone is privy to and finally she gives me a brief insight on her work with the medically fragile and Alzheimer’s patients. On with the show!
2022-05-2043 minSarnia FamousBrent WilkinsonHappy Friday theatre lovers. This week’s guest is Brent Wilkinson. Brent is a kind, modest, natural ideas guy who is super easy to talk to. We chat about his work as a creative writer for radio, how that links to his theatre experience, and I learned that Brent is a master, albeit a modest one, of Simpsons voices as well as many others. On with the show!
2022-05-1449 minSarnia FamousKatelyn ShortreedHappy Friday…..book lovers?!?! This week we gonna spice things up a little with the multi-talented Katelyn Shortreed. Katelyn is a fellow librarian, music teacher, and recently she has written, illustrated, and self published a series of books. Mini Melody Explores is not only children’s fiction but a music resource with immense potential. When Katelyn first told me about her book series I immediately knew I needed to tell everyone I know about it – and so, here we are! One last note before we begin, if you catch some odd grunting sounds that is Katelyn’s puppy, not me, grun...2022-05-0728 minSarnia FamousFrank BrennanHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Frank Brennan. Frank is warm and naturally funny without meaning to be, intelligent and obviously passionate about music and his career. We talk about his 31 years as a teacher, what it was like to compete in music festivals with his family when was younger, and we even talk about what types of books he likes to read which made my heart extra happy. I only wish you could see Franks facial expressions when my mic picked up something loud – absolutely priceless.
2022-04-3046 minSarnia FamousJeff ManthaHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Jeff Mantha. Jeff is animated, goofy, and a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic. We chat about how he sacrifices his body for the art of theatre and how films, and in particular classic films, have shaped his personality especially his natural urge to mimic certain actors. This episode is a, uh, a little sweary. I tried to bleep it out, but I would still shield your children accordingly.
2022-04-2242 minSarnia FamousLee BazeleyHappy Friday theatre lovers, this week’s guest is Lee Bazeley fresh from the run of Fox on the Fairway at the Imperial. We talk about his penchant for purchasing instruments he can’t play, how Ruth “bullied” him into getting involved in the theatre, his awkward one-on-one audition for Beauty and the Beast. Lee is a self-proclaimed nervous dude but to me he was super chill to chat with.
2022-04-1542 minSarnia FamousKip McMillanHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Kip McMillan who couldn’t be more likeable and genuine if he tried. Kip and I chat about his journey from hard rock bands to theatre musicals, why its important to be open to the expertise of others, and along the way he warmly and enthusiastically sings the praises of his peers. O
2022-04-0845 minSarnia FamousBrittany JenkinsHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Brittany Jenkins who constantly blew my mind with her sage like wisdom, she is truly erudite beyond measure. She opens up about how meditation has helped her through dark times, she provides a unique perspective on the incorporation of various art mediums in the theatre space, and finally she drops some interesting behind the scenes deets that may surprise you about Jay Peckham’s Christmas Carol.
2022-04-0146 minSarnia FamousLiv GogasHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is the triple threat Liv Gogas. Liv is another extremely talented and gorgeous woman to be on the show who surprised me with her insecurities. If you are out there listening and identify as a chubby nerd like me, know that even the most gorgeous and shapely ladies have insecurities too. We also chat about funny theatre mishaps Liv has experienced mostly involving staircases and spontaneously putting her body at risk. On with the show!
2022-03-2543 minSarnia FamousCassandra Lynn SmithHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Cassandra Lynn Smith and we chat about how movies and television have formed us throughout life in positive and negative ways, and what a movie marathon looked like to her as a kid, and she reminisces on being a basic white girl in the 90s. Cass is naturally funny, eloquent, relatable and just extremely easy to talk to. Oo! Warning there are a couple of b-grade swears in this episode.
2022-03-1949 minSarnia FamousShauna NellesHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is the funky, hilarious and down to earth Shauna Nelles. I did my best to try and shield you from my cackle laughter but Shauna is so dang funny and there’s only so much a girl can do. We talk about how theatre can lift us up and help us through the tough stuff, how society has shaped women and the way we perceive ourselves, and she shares a few stories about mischievous theatre antics too. I use the b-word in this episode. And I meant it. So, you know, shield yo...2022-03-1241 min
Sarnia FamousTayler HartwickHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is the bubbly Taylor Hartwick. We talk about her dream roles and how singing comes naturally to her, but also about how that bubbly personality is really only half of who she really is.
2022-03-0442 min
Sarnia FamousHenri CaninoHappy Friday theatre lovers! Today’s guest is the talented Henri Canino and she reminds us that historically theatre has more than purely escapism and entertainment, it’s a potential space for the marginalized to be represented and ultimately feel seen, as well as a format to inspire change and critical thought. We also talk about lifting other women up and fighting our own impostor’s syndrome, however difficult it may be. Henri is erudite, personable, and was a delight to chat with.
2022-02-2644 min
Sarnia FamousJen ZimmerHappy Friday theatre lovers! This weeks guest is Jen Zimmer, Jen is the kind of lady I think anyone would feel chatty and comfortable with. She has a great laugh and an excellent perspective on life, especially how to deal with unexpected failures. Jen was self conscious about her interview but truly had no reason to be: her story is inspiring and reminds us its never too late to chase your dreams.
2022-02-1839 min
Sarnia FamousCarly AllenHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week’s guest is Carly Allen who is a talented yet modest lady I’m delighted to call my friend. We chat about where her creativity stems from and how she motivates herself to try new things, what its like to work with other actors who are comfortable being nearly nude on stage, and she also opens up and is vulnerable in this interview in ways that surprised even me. On with the show.
2022-02-1140 min
Sarnia FamousMoulan BourkeHappy Friday theatre lovers! This week I got to chat with Moulan Bourke who seriously gets you pumped about theatre programming and wanting to get involved, no matter your age or skill level. She talks about making a proper go of theatre life in Toronto, her experience enriching her theatre education in Ireland, and she touches on some of her exciting plans for Theatre Sarnia’s Youth Group!
2022-02-0445 min
Sarnia FamousKarissa TeskeyThis weeks funky, stylish and super sweet guest, Karissa Teskey, tells us how she draws from her arts background in surprising and creative ways to create her costumes. Karissa is not only talented with costumes but when chatting about her acting experience seamlessly slips in and out of flawless accents with little to no effort.
2022-01-2844 min
Sarnia FamousAdam ForristalHappy Friday theatre lovers! Today’s guest is Adam Forristal and we talk all things cabarets including how a solid spreadsheet is integral to a cabarets success and how they are able to pull off the cabarets in such short time frames.
And even though Adam is a music man extraordinaire, capable of singing, mcing and keyboarding simultaneously, he is very modest and is quick to speak to the talents of others.
2022-01-2141 min
Sarnia FamousRuth FrancoeurHappy Friday theatre lovers! Todays extra special guest, the beloved Ruth Francoeur reveals the secrets behind her famous crack cookies, what the theatre community is like in Fort McMurray, and in retrospect I should have saved this episode for Valentines Day as Ruth shares the sweet tale of how she fell for Norm and the theatre somewhat simultaneously. Ruth’s laugh is infectious and her stories are heart felt and colorful; you are in for a treat folks! On with the show.
2022-01-1443 min
Sarnia FamousCharmaine JacklinHappy New Year theatre lovers! In today’s episode, Charmaine Jacklin opens up about difficult loss. Many wonderful people have been lost in the past couple of years due to this awful virus and specifically, the Theatre Sarnia community was hit hard in a variety of ways. Charmaine discusses the loss of a few of these important members of the community and if your heart is not quite ready for this topic please feel free to skip. Charmaine is well spoken, insightful, appreciative, and very capable of pulling your heart strings! Don’t make the same mistake I did, have...2022-01-0840 minSarnia FamousKathryn ForristalHappy New Years Eve theatre lovers! I cannot think of a better way to start the New Year than publishing this lovely chat with Kathryn Forristal. Apologies to Kathryn as we recorded this ages ago – in preparation for my trip back home I recorded a bunch of episodes to give myself a bit of a head start so some of the details are older but the sentiments still ring very true. Kathryn is a gentle soul with a vibrant creative spirit; we talk a lot about cabarets and specifically her love of featuring miscast songs and how this gives lo...2021-12-3135 minSarnia FamousChristmas Eve WishesHappy Christmas Eve theatre lovers! I couldn’t help myself I had to post a little something. Being here surrounded by family I cannot help but feel loved and lucky and wanted to take a moment to share a big ole thank you to all my guests and my listeners that have helped this little homegrown project off the ground. I hope this holiday season you feel just as loved and lucky as I do if not more. Thanks for listening! See you next week.
2021-12-2400 minSarnia FamousDavid EnglesonHo ho ho! Happy Thursday theatre lovers! I’m leaving for Alberta tomorrow bright and early for my first-time home in two years so I hope you will forgive me for posting a day early. Today’s guest is Mr. David Engleson and if you have kids with you and you want to maintain the mystery of Christmas… you might want to drop them off at grammas before listening. We talk caroling, cookies, mall Santas, and all things Christmas. On with the show
2021-12-1636 minSarnia FamousCatherine SoulliereHappy Friday theatre lovers! The festive season continues with gorgeous, flame-haired Catherine Soulliere who tells us about her role as a legit Theatre Sarnia employee, what working with your spouse in the theatre is like, and she indulges me in a little cat mom and Christmas talk too. Important to note, Cat is on a mission to make volunteering at the theatre its most enjoyable yet and gives details on the variety of ways you can get involved. On with the show.
2021-12-1138 min
Sarnia FamousIan AlexanderHappy December theatre lovers! I’m a giant child who adores the holiday season so the next couple guests were forced to indulge me and chat a bit about how the holidays have shaped their theatre experience. Starting with today’s guest, Mr. Ian Alexander, which I am super excited about because I thieved the name of this show from him. We chat a bit about that, the holidays, and he tells us about experimenting with different styles of theatre productions. But mostly, we nerd out about editing so if you are curious about how Theatre Sarnia’s Step into C...2021-12-0352 minSarnia FamousDavid EvansToday’s guest, Mr. Dave Evans, tells us how coming from a family of performers and musicians has influenced his own theatre career. In fact, he opens up on losing a loved one suddenly and how theatre became “tonic for the soul” during that dark time. We also chat about how classic theatre productions could benefit from gender bending and the importance of being kind to one another, on stage and off, as you never know what someone else is going through. Now on with the show.
2021-11-2747 min