Emerging Professional Artists

Kaydence Banga, composer, theater artist
Theatre, Regina

“I find one of the things that fuels me most is the constant ability to try new things.”

Kaydence Banga (she/her) is a graduate of the University of Regina with a BA in Theatre and Performance and Media, Art, and Performance (music concentration) with a minor in Psychology. Since completing her degree, Kaydence composed a wind quintet, Letters from The Ocean, for the Strata Festival (2022) and a soundscape, The Cave, for the SK Theatre Design Festival (2022). Kaydence has stage-managed multiple productions such as Night Sweats (2023) and Rites of Passage (2023) with On Cue Performance Hub and Innocence Astray (2023) with Third Draft Theatre for the Regina Fringe Festival, among others.

What fuels Kaydence: “As an artist, I find one of the things that fuels me most is the constant ability to try new things. My degree focused on devised theatre, a style of theatre where artists come together to create a performance that does not start with a script; providing an opportunity for us as artists to showcase our unique strengths while simultaneously experimenting with techniques as each person teaches their gift to the rest of the collaboration group.”

Hope Van Vliet said: “Her play, Koping Mechanisms, was produced by On Cue Performance Hub Regina celebrating the triumphs of young artists over imposter syndrome and mental health challenges and [she] begun writing a historical drama for 25th Street Theatre as part of their Behind Closed Doors program.”

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Nathan Coppens, Mad actor, musician, playright, producer
Theatre, Saskatoon

“I am a Mad artist, telling a Mad story. Every piece of art is for everyone.”

Nathan Coppens (he/him) is a Mad/Crip actor, musician, playwright, puppeteer and producer. He has worked with Listen To Dis’, Globe Theatre, and the Saskatchewan Playwrights Centre, among others. He is the playwright, co-star, songwriter and frequent producer of I Have No Idea, a play about adult ADHD, which led to numerous people being diagnosed and receiving support. Nathan is a recipient of the Colleen Bailey Memorial Fund and grants from SK Arts, Creative Saskatchewan, and the Canada Council for the Arts, and was nominated for a Saskatoon Area Theatre Award for Original Composition for his work in scoring Balloonacy!

What fuels Nathan: “I am a Mad (neurodivergent) artist, diagnosed with ADHD six years ago, though it began when I was born. I know many people who struggled with ADHD and other mental health issues for years and didn't get the help they needed - myself included - and were disparaged by family, friends, and society. I am a Mad artist, telling a Mad story. Every piece of art is for everyone. From John Prine to Frederic Chopin, and every taste in between. But theatre too often creates for the same repeat patrons.”

Sabrina Cataldo said: “His play, I Have No Idea, was performed in LIVE FIVE's season and toured the province with 21 performances to more than 1,000 audience members; almost 500 participated in talkbacks. Some people later thanked; saying they got diagnosed because of the show.”

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Jensine Emeline, theatre designer, arts administrator
Theatre, Saskatoon

“There is something so special about being part of a circle that is bigger than yourself.”

Jensine Emeline (she/they) is a SATAward-winning ADC theatre designer, Equity stage manager, and arts administrator and an alumnus of the U of S drama department with a BFA Honours in design. They have a passion for collaborative, independent, and local theatre and environmental sustainability in the arts. Jensine has worked across Canada as a costume designer, set designer, stage manager, production manager, box office manager, projects and operations manager, and more. Costume design credits include Hamlet (Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan, 2024), Disney's The Little Mermaid (Persephone Theatre, 2024), and The Revolutionists (Persephone Theatre, 2022). Jensine has also worked with 25th Street Theatre, Dancing Sky Theatre, and Gordon Tootoosis Nīkānīwin Theatre.

What fuels Jensine: “I am so grateful to be part of an incredible community of artists because all of the people that I get to work with, spend my time with, collaborate with, and more are all brilliant, amazing, and talented artists that make me a better version of myself. There is something so special about being part of a circle that is bigger than yourself. I know every day that I have people that rely on me and that I can rely on them in return.”

Kelsey Ford said: “Jensine has built an incredible career with the Saskatoon Fringe and beyond. She’s stage-managed 10 shows, costumed 23, and designed 6 sets—most notably, the full costuming for The Little Mermaid, enriching Saskatoon's theatre scene.”

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Ibukun-Oluwa Fasunhan, theater artist, researcher
Theatre, Regina

“ … driven by a deep commitment to truth-telling, social justice, and the pursuit of belonging.”

Ibukun is a playwright, director, stage manager, producer, and researcher. He has made significant impact in children theatre, African theatre and musical theatre, with productions staged in theatres across five countries on three continents. As a director, Ibukun has helmed numerous productions including Off Guard, Rites of Passage, Death and the King’s Horseman, OMG The Musical, Home and Annie the Musical. With over 15 years of experience as a stage manager, he has managed more than 50 productions and over 600 performances. His stage management credits include notable works such as Fela and the Kalakuta Queens, Wakaa the Musical and Saro the Musical, to name a few.

What fuels Ibukun: “I consider myself a 'comparative artist' driven by a deep commitment to truth-telling, social justice, and the pursuit of belonging. My work is fueled by the desire to document, question, and humanize struggles, fostering transformative conversations and advocating for meaningful change. Through thought-provoking storytelling, I amplify the voices of marginalized communities while challenging systems of oppression and exploring the complexities of identity and home.”

Carla Harris said: “Ibukun wrote and directed Breathe and Off Guard, on asthma in Nigeria and Black student experiences in Canada. His documentary From the Margins to the Centre highlights Black communities in Saskatchewan and  helps organize ArtYQR.”

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Holly Gilroy, musician, community radio host, volunteer, arts administrator
Music, Saskatoon

“I love making a small mark in the rich community we have in Saskatchewan.”

Through hosting on community radio stations CJTR and CFCR, Holly’s prairie femme country-folk project Gil & Wil, her job at The Broadway Theatre, and volunteering for Saskatchewan music festivals, she loves spending her time with other folks working to keep the Saskatchewan music community alive and thriving. Originally from Regina where her love for CJTR, Regina’s community radio station began, in 2020 she took on volunteer roles at the station, including the creating Principal Prairie, a show dedicated to playing upcoming and established Saskatchewan-based artists. Her country-folk music project, Gil & Wil, is a femme-driven duo with Aiden McRorie Wilson. The duo prioritizes working with other femme artists, creating space in the country-folk genre through collaboration and connection.

What fuels Holly: “The shared goal within our province to make Saskatchewan’s music community a space for everyone to create and collaborate is the fuel behind my projects and interests. Through hosting a radio show with my friends, writing ridiculous, elaborate songs with my bandmate, to being one of the many volunteers at all the amazing festivals we have here, I love making a small mark in the rich community we have. I am thankful for the opportunity to create and organize arts in our province and excited to continue working to make space for upcoming artists.”

Mackenzy Vida said: “Holly is a musician whose passion for music flows through her, fueling her involvement within the Saskatchewan industry and beyond. From her work with CJTR Community Radio to her Femme-driven harmonic country(ish) duo, Gil & Wil, Holly radiates joy in all she does, inspiring those around her.”

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Avianna Hudym, theatre artist
Theatre, Regina

“ … an unshakeable curiosity about the relationships we have with ourselves and each other.”

Avianna Hudym (she/they) is a white, queer, working-class artist who has studied and worked in theatre for the better part of the past fifteen years. Originally trained as an actor, she has expanded her practice to include work as a movement artist, director, designer, dramaturg and administrator. They work at the Globe Theatre as part of the full-time production crew for the theatre's first season back in the newly renovated building. Avianna co-hosts Readers' Theatre, a biweekly script reading and socialization event for artists. They are dedicated to activating and enriching their local arts scene through cross-disciplinary collaborations and community building.

What fuels Avianna: “[Avianna]… as an artist has an unshakeable curiosity about the relationships we have with ourselves and each other. Theatre is an incredible vehicle for exploring what draws us close or pushes us away. I'm obsessed with the transformation that happens during the ritual of theatre — turning an otherwise mundane space into a strange petri dish where performance and observation become a substrate for intellectual, emotional and physical response.”

Cat C. Haines said: “In 2024, Avianna had her directing debut with a production of Rachel Walliser’s Breaking the Curse. Avianna is also a Production Assistant at the Globe Theatre and co-organizes an independent script reading circle to help build and strengthen Regina’s grassroots theatre community.”

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Rooky Kamiz, artist, musician
Music, Saskatoon

“ … a powerful blend of cultural heritage and global ambition ... ”

Rooky Kamiz is a dynamic Afrofusion artist redefining global music with his unique blend of Nigerian rhythms and Canadian energy. A master of cultural fusion, he seamlessly intertwines Afrobeats with Pop, R&B, and Hip-Hop, crafting a sound rooted in African heritage and enriched by multicultural influences. Rooky’s artistry has garnered international acclaim, his performances have graced stages at BreakOut West and Cathedral Village Arts Festival, and his discography has amassed over 500,000 digital streams. He has consistently earned accolades, including two consecutive Afrobeats Artist of the Year wins at the Saskatchewan Music Awards and the Global Artist of the Year at the Western Canadian Music Awards.

What fuels Rooky: “Rooky Kamiz, as an artist, is a powerful blend of cultural heritage and global ambition. He is driven by a desire to bridge worlds and connect people, fusing the soulful rhythms of his Nigerian roots with the dynamic energy of his Canadian experience. This manifests in a passion for creating music transcending borders, uniting diverse audiences through a unique Afrofusion sound.”

Jordan Perry said: “Rooky Kamiz is a trailblazing Afrofusion artist whose innovative blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and hip-hop has earned him major accolades, including Afrobeats Artist of the Year (SMA 2023) and Global Artist of the Year (WCMA 2024). His impressive catalog and industry advocacy further cement his influence..”

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Established Artists and Arts Leaders

Kathy Allen, Arts and Grants Consultant, City of Saskatoon
Theatre, Saskatoon

“Creativity and the arts make my soul feel better.”

Kathy Allen trained and worked as a theatre artist before falling into a 21-year career as an arts funding administrator. Career highlights include leading the 2018 Culture Plan Refresh and developing artist residency and pop-up gallery programs for the City; Directing the Canadian premiere of The Beauty Queen of Leenane (New Theatre Co-op), Stage Managing Z (25^th Street Theatre), and ASM/Props/As cast for Romeo et Juliet (Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival). She was the 2021 Festival Coordinator for the inaugural SK Theatre Design Festival. Kathy maintains a visual art practice and is known for her 5000 Keys project.

What fuels Kathy: “ It is a privilege to work as an arts funder and connect with Saskatchewan artists. Life in the arts can be truly difficult – fraught with challenges amongst the joy, a difficulty that a person doesn’t readily wish on anyone; and yet, like many of my peers, when I meet people who are truly called to the arts, I am compelled to support them in any way possible. I like to connect people, make things a bit easier to navigate, and help foster a sense of belonging in the community, which, in turn, helps me feel a sense of belonging.”

Lenore Maier says: “Kathy has been a key mentor for many artists and arts administrators over the last 18 months. I've received ongoing and consistent mentorship from Kathy throughout this time, and any success I have in the arts could not be celebrated without attributing it to Kathy's guidance and mentorship.”

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Anna Marie Bekolay, BMusEd, ARCT
Music, Saskatoon

“ ... the way the rest of the world’s demands can slide away when I’m focused on practising or composing music ... ”

Anna Marie Bekolay creates evocative audience experiences through collaborative work with several regular music projects as well as freelance work, teaching, and adjudicating. Her current regular projects are Celtic ensemble Back of the Bus, The Whiskey Jerks, Mac Talla, The Stephanies, and Skaravan. Anna recently guested with Morit Music, Saskatoon Men’s Chorus, Prince Albert Concert Choir, and has played with the string orchestra for the International Saito Conducting Workshop. Anna was also involved in Free Flow Dance Theatre’s Back Alley Antics, playing her composition A Song for Lost Time on a Giant Bowed Psaltery and played for the release of Cassandra Stinn’s album Returnings.

What fuels Anna: “[I am] driven by creating connection, internally and externally, with the music, the audience, my bandmates; the way the rest of the world’s demands can slide away when I’m focused on practising or composing music or on performing and entertaining as my created personas on stage; creating an opportunity and an experience for an audience that they cannot get anywhere else in the way that I program the music and sparking curiosity in my music students to help them to engage with their music in a meaningful and motivational way.”

Jackie Latendresse said: “Anna works tirelessly in music. She is a talented performer, composer, singer, and string player who plays in so many bands that I cannot possibly remember them all. She also collaborates with other artists in her community, including her second love, dance.”

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Marie-Véronique Bourque, jazz flutist, singer-songwriter
Music, Regina

“ … [art] allows me to push my limits, express myself and feed my soul.”

Marie-Véronique Bourque (MV) is an acclaimed jazz flutist and singer-songwriter known for bold artistry and signature crossover jazz style. A semi-finalist of the 2024 International Songwriting Competition and a 2023 Trille Or nominee, MV won the National Flute Association's Jazz Flute Big Band Competition and was nominated for the Saskatchewan Music Awards (2018, 2021). Her albums, Entre Québec & Saskatchewan and Une porte s'ouvre, both ranked among Saskatchewan's Top 5 Best Albums of the Year and appeared on !earshot national jazz charts. MV is also a member of the Regina Symphony Orchestra and the Quarter Tones Flute Ensemble.

What fuels MV: “Art is a vital part of who I am. My pursuit to become a more accomplished artist allows me to push my limits, express myself and feed my soul. I am responsible for doing my part by helping people feel good through my music. Collaborating with fellow artists enriches my creative process, fostering personal and artistic growth. Art is a medium through which I can share my perspective and connect with others.”

Tara Semple says: “Marie-Véronique is one of Canada’s few jazz flutists, creating works inspired by her unique and diverse background. A soloist with the NFA Jazz Flute Big Band, she will release Bruissement boréal, a duo album with Juno nominee Christine Tassan, in May 2025."

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Tim Bratton, actor, sound designer, producer, dramaturge, playwright, director
Theatre, Saskatoon

“The deepest impulse that drives me as an artist is the desire to bring people together.”

Tim is a theatre professional and the Artistic Associate for Burnt Thicket Theatre. Working as an actor, sound designer, producer, dramaturge, playwright, and director, Tim is dedicated to helping nurture a healthy theatre community here in Saskatchewan while sharing stories that make people laugh, cry, and experience the deepest parts of what it means to be human. Tim has performed in The Art of French Cooking (25th Street Theatre), Miss Bennett: Christmas At Pemberley (Persephone) and Cymbeline (Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan), to name a few. Tim lives in Saskatoon with his lovely wife, Amy, and their two very active kids.

What fuels Tim: “The deepest impulse that drives me as an artist is the desire to bring people together, especially in new understandings, closing the gap between our differences and developing greater empathy toward one another. Oscar Wilde once said that theatre is 'the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being' and that's what I hope for in my work.”

Jessica Morgun said: “Tim is an actor, playwright, sound designer and new director, bringing thoughtfulness and generosity to all his projects. He has been recognized in the local theatre community for his work as an actor in a lead role and for his original script and performance.”

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Marvin Tontiwachwuthikul Chan (Merv xx Gotti), singer-songwriter, Artistic Director, Trifecta Sound Co.
Music, Regina

“I’ll make and pray and fight for music until I’m dead.”

Marvin Chan, stage name, Merv xx Gotti, is an award-winning Asian Canadian singer-songwriter, best known for his solo indie dream-pop project, Guitar Songs. His debut EP, Guitar Songs, released in March 2024 ahead of his five-show debut at SXSW. The EP’s first single, “Jiujitsu”, was named one of CBC’s Top 100 Canadian Songs of 2024 and has since amassed over half a million streams on Spotify and spent eight consecutive weeks on Earshot’s Top 30 charts.

What fuels Merv: “When I started Trifecta Sound Co. as Trifecta Music Festival in 2014, I wanted to bring the music communities in the province together. Since the beginning, music was the only thing that made sense to me. It was the only way I learned to understand and listen to myself. It was how I figured out who I was. Knowing what music does for me and for other artists, especially for those who may not always belong, drives me. I’ll make and pray and fight for music until I’m dead.”

Mackenzy Vida said: “Marvin is a singer-songwriter and artistic director of Trifecta Sound Co who continuously seeks and creates opportunities to uplift and foster the SK music community. His efforts promote collaboration among local artists which amplify the talent SK has to offer to the Canadian industry and beyond.”

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Shawn Cuthand, writer, comedian, producer, actor, director
Theatre, Saskatoon

“I strive for audience reaction in performing standup comedy and acting in theatrical plays.”

Shawn Cuthand is a nehiyaw (Cree) and Kanien kehá:ka (Mohawk) writer, comedian, producer, actor and director. He is a part of the satirical news group, The Feather News, where he has been on screen and behind the scenes writing and in producing roles. The Feather recently won the APTN/imagineNative web series pitch competition and completed their second season for APTN which will be aired in 2025. Being a part of The Feather series encouraged Shawn to further his acting skills by taking roles with theatre organizations such as Gordon Tootoosis Nīkānīwin Theatre in their A Rez Xmas series playing multiple roles. Shawn has done voice acting in an audio play released by Burnt Thicket Theatre and GTNT, Remnance, and has been doing stand up comedy, a major passion of his.

What fuels Shawn: “The high of performing is what fuels me as an artist. As someone whose professional artist career started after sobriety, I found a replacement addiction in performing. I strive for audience reaction in performing standup comedy and acting in theatrical plays. What also fuels me is getting that Indigenous voice and lived experience out there for Indigenous people to see and hear their own stories as well as non-Indigenous people to bring them into our world that isn't through the lens of negative news stories.”

Sabrina Cataldo said: “…[Shawn] produced Full Metal Comedy show at YXE Fringe that featured lineups of local comedians and was named Best Local Show in 2023 and toured the same show to Vancouver in 2024 and on the show and is part of Whistler Film Fest and Creative Saskatchewan's Market Accelerator Program.”

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Ray Deans, educator, director, actor
Theatre, Moose Jaw

“I am inspired by the opportunity to guide students as they grow as performers and individuals on the stage.”

For nearly three decades, Ray has been involved in approximately 50 theatrical productions in Moose Jaw, contributing as an actor, director, and technical designer. Many of his competitive plays received accolades at regional and provincial festivals. He has co-taught musical theatre courses for over 10 years, each class culminating in a staged musical production. This initiative allows students to engage in their passion while earning credits toward graduation. His involvement in the Saskatchewan Drama Association's board of directors highlights his dedication and commitment to promoting drama and theatre in Saskatchewan.

What fuels Ray: “I am inspired by the opportunity to guide students as they grow as performers and individuals on the stage. I enjoy the energy and passion that students bring to theatre. Watching students step into a character and explore their story, then seeing the growth of both the character and the actor, always leaves me with a sense of awe and gratitude. Theatre helps build a strong sense of community and family, and the relationships that are built in a short time on stage end up lasting a lifetime.”

Jennifer Hamstock said: “He has been a member of the Sask Drama Board for over a decade, recently finishing a two-year term as president. [He] helped plan and hosted the provincial drama showcase that was held in lieu of the prov. competition due to sanctions, allowing students from across the province to showcase their talents.”

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Lenore Maier, musician, arts administrator
Music, Saskatoon

“The momentum of a creative team is an incredibly powerful force.”

Lenore Maier (she/her) is an arts organizer, administrator and musician based in Saskatoon. She plays drums and sings for Saskatoon surf pop band The Garrys, performing alongside notable acts such as The Sadies, Elliott Brood, and La Luz, garnering several nominations. She produces ambient electronic works as Ursa and has worked in film score composition and live theatre sound design. Lenore co-founded Grey Records, a small cassette label, has toured Canada, the UK, the US, and Scandinavia, and has booked several tours for her bands and others on Grey Records. She is the Executive Director of The Broadway Theatre, is on the board of The Salt Shaker Music Festival, and has worked with other music and film festivals in Saskatchewan.

What fuels Lenore: “I love collaborating with other creatives, whether it's with my bandmates, colleagues, or fellow volunteer organizers. The best ideas always come to life through a collective effort. The momentum of a creative team is an incredibly powerful force. The projects, events, initiatives and albums that emerge from collective minds are some of the most gratifying and enjoyable contributions that can be added to the artistic realm.”

Travis Cole said: “Lenore Maier has been a driving force in the Saskatchewan music scene for over a decade—as a performer, presenter, and dedicated advocate. Whether through her work with The Garrys, her contributions to organizations like the Regina Folk Festival and Swamp Fest, or as the Founder and Festival Director of The Salt Shaker Music Festival, Lenore has made a lasting impact on the province’s music community.”

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Amanda McArthur, elementary band teacher with Regina Public Schools
Music, Regina

“ … making music requires vulnerability … ”

Amanda (Mandy) McArthur is a dedicated music educator with 15 years of experience at Regina Public Schools, specializing in student-centered, strengths-based instrumental music. She earned her Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Regina. As a lifelong learner, Mandy continually seeks professional growth, attending events like the Midwest Band Clinic and the Saskatchewan Music Conference. She is a member of the Saskatchewan Band Association and the Saskatchewan Music Educators Association. In 2014, she received the CMEA Builders Award for Newer Teachers. Her bands regularly perform at local festivals, and she has served as a euphonium clinician. Passionate about music and the arts since childhood, Mandy loves to share music with anyone that will listen.

What fuels Amanda: “At the core of my teaching beliefs is a commitment to be the role model that inspired me growing up and to create a safe, trusting space for my students, as making music requires vulnerability. I strive to embody the professionalism, routine, and honesty I valued in teachers, while maintaining a balanced routine with downtime and creative moments. Inspired by Gweneth, my 81-year-old cousin whom I’ve nicknamed my ‘Human Sunshine,’ I embrace reinvention and growth, striving, like her, to be a ‘Jill of All Trades.’”

Laura Pettigrew said: “[Amanda is] … a passionate, dedicated music educator, a conductor for 15+ years grade 6-8 with RPSD whose students excel, a clinician, recipient CMEA Builders Award, member of the SBA, SMEA and performer Tuba Christmas, Queen City Brass Band.”

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Jennifer Switzer, music educator
Music, Swift Current

“ … driven to inspire students to pursue academic and personal excellence while promoting a challenging yet positive learning environment.”

Jennifer’s musical career began with piano lessons at age 6, then she joined the Cabri Brass Band when she was 8. As a euphonium player, she attended many band camps, four Provincial Honour Bands, two National Youth Bands of Canada and an International Youth Band. She attended the University of Saskatchewan where she received Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Education. She is the itinerant band teacher for Chinook School Division’s Prairie West Band. Throughout her 26+ year career in music education, she has been a member of the Saskatchewan Music Educators Association and the Saskatchewan Band Association, a SMEA board member and co-ordinated three Honour Groups and received the Saskatchewan Music Educators Association Outstanding Achievement Award (2016).

What fuels Jennifer: “I am a motivating music educator driven to inspire students to pursue academic and personal excellence while promoting a challenging yet positive learning environment. I am passionate about building a rapport with students to help them become life-long learners who appreciate the arts.”

Laura Pettigrew said: “[Jennifer is] .. a brilliant music educator, adjudicator, conductor with 27 years with Prairie West Chinook and Swift Current SD, adjudicating Sask. festivals, performer Swift Current Jazz Orchestra, Swift Winds and received an SMEA Award for outstanding achievement.”

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R. Corey Taylor, District Manager, Yamaha Canada Music Ltd., freelance musician, educator
Music, Regina

“ … studying music is about experiencing the world from new perspectives and developing an inquisitive mind.”

Corey’s life in music began at seven as a member of the Regina Lions Band organization, continuing later at the University of Regina and McGill University in Montreal. He is an in-demand freelance musician, performing with various groups, including the Regina Symphony Orchestra, the Bob Moyer Big Band, multiple artists on CBC and Radio Canada, high school musicals, drumlines and Craven Country Thunder. One of Corey’s core beliefs is music education, and he has been an active teacher, clinician and adjudicator for various school boards, the Prairielands Jazz Camp, multiple SBA Summer Band Camps, Saskatchewan Music Conference and university music education classes. He served on the Regina Jazz Society and Downtowners Optimist Band Festival board and helped create and manage the CFL’s Rider Drumline.

What fuels Corey: “Music is about communication, creativity and cooperation. Studying music is not simply about becoming a better musician; it is about experiencing the world from new perspectives and developing an inquisitive mind. That is why young and old should remain students of music for life.”

Laura Pettigrew said: “[Corey has spent] … 19 years representing Winds, Strings, Percussion Yamaha Canada Music, presenting annual National Association School Music Dealers conference; is a board member of Canadian Drumline Association and co-created and managed CFL’s Rider Drumline.”

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Marianne Woods, theatre artist
Theatre, Regina

“ … grateful to be an arts worker, actor, and teacher in Treaty 4 territory.”

Marianne is a performing artist, School Tours Manager, and Membership Liaison with the Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils (OSAC). Her volunteer and community work included terms on the National Council of Canadian Actors’ Equity Association, ACTRA Saskatchewan, City of Regina Arts Commission, Little Theatre, and more. Marianne performs with the carolling ensemble, The Noteables, as part of the Health Arts Society of Regina’s Concerts in Care program for care homes in Regina and is a dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star and Worship Convenor for First Presbyterian Church. For over 15 years, she taught drama and musical theatre for young children with Class Act Studios and the Royal Conservatory Learning Through the Arts and CREATE Programs in Regina Public Schools.

What fuels Marianne: “[I am] extremely grateful and thankful during [my] life to have had so many wonderful teachers, mentors, directors and colleagues who have supported and believed in [my] abilities and provided such amazing opportunities to grow as an artist and arts administrator. [I am] forever grateful to be an arts worker, actor, and teacher in Treaty 4 territory.”

Zoe Schneider said: “Marianne Woods has been a pillar of OSAC and the arts in Saskatchewan. A celebrated performer with a career spanning national and international stages, she has enriched young audiences, mentored artists and championed the arts.”

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Aspiring Youth Artists

Kateryna Grace, singer-songwriter
Music, Saskatoon

“…finding comfort and meaning in the lyrics.”

Kateryna Grace, a 16-year-old singer-songwriter from Saskatoon with Ukrainian roots, has already significantly impacted the Saskatchewan music scene. She has performed at various prestigious events, including the Saskatchewan Music Awards, Taste of Saskatchewan, TeleMiracle, and multiple festivals across the province. Kateryna continues to grow as a singer and songwriter, captivating audiences with her raw talent and authenticity on national stages. She was selected to perform at Honey Jam at TD Music Hall in Toronto, took part in CCMA Music Week, and received SOCAN’s Young Canadian Songwriter Award for her song, Then I Left. Kateryna performs alongside her brother, Marko, who plays bass, making their performances a family collaboration.

What fuels Kateryna: “The deep need for self-expression and the realization that my music can truly impact people’s lives fuels me as an artist. Seeing my audience connect with my songs and finding comfort and meaning in the lyrics brings me immense joy. Through my music, I also express my thoughts on important issues, hoping to inspire reflection and spark conversations about the world.”

Alla Gof said: “At just 16, Kateryna Grace has made her mark on Sask’s music scene, performing at venues and events across the province. This summer, she took the stage at TD Music Hall in Toronto for Honey Jam representing SK as an emerging female artist. She also won SOCAN’s Young Canadian Songwriters Award.”

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Organizations, Festivals and Collectives

Burnt Thicket Theatre, theare company
Theatre, Saskatoon

“ ... motivated by our vision of a world of hopeful people who know their immeasurable value.”

Burnt Thicket Theatre (BTT)is an independent company producing live and digital theatre that brings awareness to real issues in the communities of Treaty 6 territory, planting seeds for positive social transformation. The Saskatoon-based non-profit has given over 340 performances in 58 cities from Halifax to Victoria since its beginnings as an artist collective in 2007. Burnt Thicket tells stories that kindle hopeful change in people’s lives, leading artists and audiences to live more intentionally for the common good. They create space for sacred encounters through the embodied act of storytelling, inviting audiences and artists to bear witness to the spiritual depth of our shared human experience. www.burntthicket.com  

What fuels Burnt Thicket Theatre: “Burnt Thicket Theatre is motivated by our vision of a world of hopeful people who know their immeasurable value amid brokenness and work together toward a shared future marked by justice, equity, and love. How we pursue that vision is shaped by four values: Community, respect, integrity and wholeness.”

Jessica Morgun said: “Burnt Thicket Theatre creates sacred spaces for people to encounter hopeful stories. Their work speaks to reconciliation, mental health, and living through trauma with resilience–all through stories that inspire and are of the highest artistic integrity.”

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Country at the Creek Music Festival, music festival
Music, Big River

“ … my passion for music runs deep, rooted in my upbringing in a family that celebrated it as a core part of our lives.”

Country at the Creek Music Festival is a vibrant music festival that celebrates the heart and soul of country music. It was founded in 2012 by Event Coordinator Jeanette Wicinski. The festival has become a beloved annual tradition, drawing fans and artists from all over the region. Jeanette and her team are passionate advocates for country music and community engagement and envisioned the festival as a platform to showcase established and emerging talent. Set against the picturesque backdrop of nature, Country at the Creek offers a unique blend of live performances, local food vendors, and family-friendly activities. The festival typically spans the first weekend in July. It features a diverse lineup of country artists, ranging from chart-topping headliners to local musicians seeking to make their mark while emphasizing community involvement and partnering with local businesses and charities.

What fuels Jeanette of the Country Creek Music Festival: “As an artist organizer for Country at the Creek, my passion for music runs deep, rooted in my upbringing in a family that celebrated it as a core part of our lives. Surrounded by music from a young age, I developed a profound appreciation for the power of music to bring people together, and this inspires me to curate experiences that  showcase incredible talent and foster a sense of community and connection.”

Malinda Krawetz said: “For over a decade, Jeanette and the Country at the Creek Music Festival have worked hard to establish an annual event that promotes and supports music focusing on youth and cultural diversity. This grassroots organization works to find creative ways to celebrate all forms of art.”

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Curtain Razors, theatre group
Theatre, Regina

“ ... hungry to explore the outer boundaries of theatre ... ”

Curtain Razors has been dedicated to sustainable, rigorous, and process-driven creation and development since its founding in 1989. The driving company objectives are to challenge and expand theatre practice in Saskatchewan and to nurture the artists and arts ecology. We do this by supporting the development of new work processes, creating space for urgent conversations affecting performing artists and creating opportunities for training and peer-to-peer support within our field of practice.

What fuels Curtain Razors: “The company is led collaboratively by five established independent artists from varying disciplines and practices. The Artistic Associates are Kris Alvarez, Johanna Bundon, Terri Fidelak, Jayden Pfeifer, and Judy Wensel. Each artist brings their unique practice and perspective to Curtain Razors. We are hungry to explore the outer boundaries of theatre, both in how we create and define what constitutes a theatrical event. We are inspired by what is emergent in our distinct artistic practices and how these interests are in a dialogue with the larger communities in which we participate.”

Sarah Bergbusch said: “Curtain Razors is essential to the creation of new work in Saskatchewan. Led collaboratively by five artists, they set the bar regarding artistic rigour, development of innovative practices, and stretching the boundaries of live performance. They are leaders in the Saskatchewan arts ecology.”

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The Dripping Honeys, music ensemble
Music, Regina

“ … fueled by music and theatre, the creation of new work, coming together to rehearse, and performing the shows ... ”

The Dripping Honeys music ensemble has won the hearts of thousands across Saskatchewan; their passion, style, and unique arrangements are rumoured to be infectious. The artists that make up the ensemble are Amanda Zelinski on lead vocals and clarinet, Jason Yuen on piano and vocals, Emil Schmuck on harmonica, Finn Burke on bass and vocals, Ed Peck on drums and percussion, and Shaylee Rosnes as a monologist. The artists proudly represent disability art through music and storytelling, demonstrating that disability does not prevent artists from creating professional art. The Dripping Honeys are multi-generational, multicultural, loud and proud disabled and neurodivergent artists.

What fuels The Dripping Honeys: “We are fueled by music and theatre; creating new work, coming together to rehearse, and performing the shows are all a part of that. We are driven by the opportunity to connect with people throughout the province in the name of disability and art. It feels great to be a part of something so vital. Being surrounded by sound, energy and camaraderie makes us feel alive and well. The impact we have had through the stories we tell and the stories shared with us is a gift.”

Sabrina Cataldo said: “They brought performances by disabled artists to rural SK on a tour that entertained plus inspired people to think about what it's like to be disabled. The tour reached over 2000 people and included discussions that created meaningful connections between disabled and non-disabled, rural and urban.”

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Warman Community Band, community band
Music, Warman

“ … driven by a desire for keeping live concert band music thriving and accessible for Warman and the surrounding area.”

In 2000, the Prairie Spirit School Division closed the school band program in Warman and the surrounding area.  In response to the loss of secondary band classes in the community, director Barrie Redford and the band parents' association organized the Warman Community Band to provide an all-ages opportunity for musicians in the area to play in a concert band. The WCB has continued for two and a half decades, with members ranging in age from 93! The WCB performs at various community events and holds several public concerts a year.

What fuels Warman Community Band: “At the Warman Community Band, we are driven by a desire to keep live concert band music thriving and accessible for Warman and the surrounding area. Live concerts and rehearsals are at the heart of what we do to foster music and community.”

Janet Wilson said: “The Warman Community Band is a community organization that supports music in Warman and the surrounding area. They rehearse weekly and perform two or three yearly concerts featuring special guests. This year, the Warman Community Band are celebrating their 25th Anniversary!”