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Erin is no stranger to the stage having performed in professional theatres across the country as well as working locally as a director and instructor for Manitoba Theatre for Young People,
Prairie Theatre Exchange, and the University of Winnipeg.
“WST prides itself on being a stepping stone company, working with professional artists as well as fostering emerging artists,
and helping them in their journey towards a professional career,”
Erin says. “I’m excited to continue that work and begin
expanding our reach to find and create opportunities for new
talent across Manitoba.”Having recently stepped down from the position of long-time AD,
WST Founder, Kayla Gordon, is very hopeful for WST’s future
with Erin in the role including her “fresh, new ideas for continued growth with an emphasis on developing projects, which are inclusive of artists of all backgrounds.” Kayla states, “The wonderful thing about Erin is that she is first an artist with great ideas, but she also has a strong business sense. Something very important when running a small independent theatre company.”Over the last few years, Erin has focused on directing and programming for teens and young adults.
“I believe WST fills an incredibly important hole in programming when it comes to relevant and current issues for our emerging performers but also our young adult audiences who rarely have their stories and experiences reflected back to them on stage,” Erin notes. “My background and training, not to mention first love is musical theatre, so having the opportunity to combine these passions is amazing.”While Erin takes on the role with excitement to bring new energy to the company, she acknowledges there’s still much to learn.
“This is my first time taking on an AD position and WST is very much fostering an emerging artist by taking a chance on me,” Erin shares. “I think “fake it ‘til you make it” is not great advice. It’s so freeing to speak up about what you DON’T know, to ask questions, share ideas widely, engage in conversations, be open; that is how you learn.”
“We are all excited about Erin coming on board and look forward to the company’s continued growth under her leadership,” says Kayla.
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