When I first moved back from Toronto I was lucky enough to be cast in the Sound of Music directed by David Adams. It was such an exhilarating experience for me as a new artist and it was great way to be welcomed into new theatre community.
Shortly afterwards I approached Simon Johnston about being mentored, as it has always been one of my goals to be an artistic director. He offered me a position as the first artistic associate at Gateway Theatre, and from there I learned about play development, producing, directing, and working in a large company and all the joys and pleasures that come along with it.
Since then I have performed in shows on the MainStage (Annie, King and I), directed two shows in the studio theatre (Rice Rockets and Yacht People, Back to You), had the pleasure of teaching in the Gateway Academy for the past five years, and am thrilled to be embarking on my big dream which has always been to direct the Christmas musical on the main stage.
I cannot say enough about how the Gateway Theatre has mentored and supported me in my artistic career, and how grateful I am for the support of this theatre family in all it’s forms. Happy, happy anniversary!
— Barbara Tomasic
Ever since I started training at the Gateway Academy for the Performing Arts 10 years ago, Gateway Theatre has played a huge part of my theatrical career.
The Gateway is where I discovered my passion and love for the performing arts, which has always challenged me and allowed me to grow both artistically and socially.
Gateway Theatre took me to many different and wondrous worlds through its various professional productions, and even gave me my first professional theatrical experience performing in Fiddler on the Roof.
This is where I have been able to develop many close, meaningful relationships.
If it wasn’t for the Gateway Theatre and the Gateway Academy, I don’t think I would be where I am today, training as an actor at university in Los Angeles.
— Nicholas Ekren
