Discover how local recognition can open doors for your creative journey! Join us for an inspiring session featuring Michelle Thorne-Speir, a professional theatre artist and Buffys recipient, as she shares insights on leveraging recognition to secure new opportunities and advance your artistic career. Whether you're an emerging or established artist, this is your chance to learn how celebrating your achievements can lead to even greater success.
This informative session will include an overview of the Wood Buffalo Excellence in Arts Awards from Jenna Fewer, ACWB Programs Manager, followed by an engaging presentation from Michelle Thorne-Speir. We will finish off with a Q&A, giving you the chance to delve into your professional development. Enjoy light refreshments and learn about the ways you can elevate your creative career.
About Michelle
Originally from Fort McMurray, Alberta, Michelle Thorne-Speir is a multi-disciplinary theatre artist residing on the traditional lands of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm, Skwxwú7mesh, and
Səl̓ílwətaɬ Nations (commonly known as Vancouver, BC). Her work focuses on building community through innovative and collaborative performance arts experiences. She holds an MFA in Directing from The University of British Columbia and a BFA in Dramatic Arts from The University of Lethbridge. Michelle has worked with Excavation Theatre, Rice & Beans Theatre Company, The Arts Club Theatre Company, Playwrights Theatre Centre, Vancouver Fringe, Keyano Theatre, Arts Council Wood Buffalo, Vancouver Young Actor’s School, Lights Up Musical Theatre School, First Impressions Theatre, and Swamp Rat Theatre. Thorne is the recipient of the Yvonne Firkins Prize and the Sydney J. Risk Award in Directing with UBC, as well as the 2016 Buffy Awards for Collective Collaboration and Theatre Artist.
