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CELTIC ROCKERS “TARTAN TERRORS” BRING OUT THE BRAVEHEART IN US ALL!

I’d like to introduce you to the TARTAN TERRORS – a fierce warrior-like band of musicians who perform Celtic rock music with a little step-dancing  thrown in. Think…Riverdance meets Braveheart, with bagpipes and a punk attitude! The band members are all multitalented musicians and their fiddle player is an award-winning step-dancer, too. Tartan Terror shows are full of humour and energy with audiences up on their feet throughout most of the show; dancing and hollering are encouraged!With a distinctive sound and a proud tradition of making Celtic music fun and accessible to any audience, the Tartan Terrors bring their Celtic Invasion to concerts, festivals and fairs across North America, blending the energy of a rock show with humour and stepdance. They’ve played highland games, renaissance fairs, battle re-enactments (we have to invite Mel Gibson to come out and do his “you’ll never take our freedom” speech!) and in large soft-seater concert halls. They’re perfectly suited for Steampunk fairs, too. They present exciting original music as well as traditional Celtic songs but with a definite edge. So get your kilts on and shine up your knees as Tartan Terrors are about to invade your town in 2025, starting with their Robbie Burns tour of Ontario that kicks off in Brantford on Friday January 10th (tour details at end of this post).

I recently spoke with band spokesman, CHRIS KERBA (bodhran, acoustic guitar & vocals) pictured below, and he shared his thoughts and band history….Who created the Tartan Terrors and what was the inspiration?  The Tartan Terrors started 29 years ago by siblings, Ellen & Ian Irmisch They had been dancers their whole lives as their mother ran a dance school. They started a show at the Ontario Renaissance Festival in Oakville ON. Their father had dubbed them the “wee tartan terrors” and the name stuck. Over the years, they added more musicians and as the band grew it became a variety show including skits, dancing and music. As members came and left the group, the shift from a variety show to a music-oriented group evolved. Now, we’re a Celtic rock band that incorporates traditional Ottawa Valley Step Dancing in our shows. Pictured below, band co-founder Ian Irmisch (Bodhran & Emcee)What were the band’s first gigs and how well were you received by audiences? Did they expect such rousing performances?  The first time I saw the Tartan Terrors was in 2005 at a Ren Faire in Hamilton ON. At this point, it was still the variety type show. Every single performance they had was packed. People were laughing, dancing, and singing along. If you had told me then that in 2 years, I’d be putting on a kilt and performing with them, I’d probably have laughed at you. They were bigger than life!

By including a fiddle-playing step dancer (Emily) the band offers a whole different dimension – how important is that extra vibe to the show?  I remember the first time I met Emily; she was a sub fiddle player for the group as we were looking to fill the role with our former fiddle player taking a step back. I picked her up at her place in Oshawa and we began our drive to Maine. Unfortunately, there was a massive accident on the 401 into Quebec and we were diverted through Cornwall and through NY state. At a time when GPS systems didn’t handle well with rerouting, Emily and I easily added 5 hours onto our drive. That was the start of, I feel like, has become a great friendship. She was really quiet at first and I couldn’t help but think “What’s this shy young lady going to add to our show?”. I was in for a spectacular surprise. We performed our show and Emily, at that point, had only played fiddle for the group. I remember being absolutely blown away by her abilities on fiddle. Not only had she learned all of our material, but she performed it and kept chasing excellence between shows. I texted Ellen on the trip and told her, in no uncertain terms, that we HAD to keep Emily. We had a string of Christmas shows coming up and that I’d take half of my pay if it meant we could offer Emily enough to join those shows. Luckily, Ellen had already had the same thoughts.As the shows progressed, Emily and Ellen choreographed a routine for our final number of the night that combined Ellen’s traditional highland dance/Irish hard shoe dancing with Emily’s Ottawa Valley Step Dancing…the audience LOVED it. We had a video that had hundreds of thousands of views around the world. It was awesome.

Sadly, 8 years ago, Ellen was diagnosed with cancer. While she kept touring with the band and performing as much as she could, unfortunately, she wasn’t able to dance the number of songs she wanted to. Emily stepped up HUGE. She would take over some of the dancing duties from Ellen and choreographed new routines for our songs. As Ellen’s health deteriorated, more and more Emily filled those shoes (yes, pun absolutely intended). Unfortunately, Ellen passed away 6 years ago (in August). Emily and her abilities on fiddle and dancing have become a staple in our shows and her abilities are unparalleled.

Each band member has extensive music education and cross-genre experience; in an age when most “musicians” have never put their hands on an instrument (thanks to computer generated music) how important is that familiarity with each instrument?  I don’t want to throw shade at musicians who don’t “create” their own music. Technology has evolved and, as professionals, we have to evolve as well. They have a different skillset that I’ll never know or understand. For me, personally, I’ll always prefer to have an instrument in my hands. I’m fairly certain that the same applies for everyone who puts on a kilt for the Terrors.(Pictured below- Peter McArthur on bagpipes, Charlie McKittrick on drums, Jake Saenz on bass & Phill Hood on electric & acoustic guitar & vocals)


I have to preface this properly because I’m not saying I’m not good at what I do. I pride myself on being a solid rhythm guitar player and a pretty decent bodhran player. But when I look around the stage, it’s not lost on me that I’m the least talented/educated, musically, on stage. Watching everyone else play their instruments, what looks like, effortlessly will constantly be mind blowing to me. The part that really blows my mind is knowing that every person on stage is a multi-instrumentalist, and not just “oh they dabble” no, they can PLAY more than one instrument. It’s wild. Now, while they make it look easy, I know that there are decades, yes decades, of practice, blood, sweat, and tears into honing their craft.The band has played across Canada and the US – do you aspire to hit the glens of Scotland and Ireland, too?  Short answer? Have band, will travel! We love playing. Give us a stage and we’ll perform. We would love to cross the pond and play in Scotland, Ireland, the UK, Australia, New Zealand…anywhere and everywhere.

You have a number of shows booked in Ontario over the next couple of months, then down into the States starting in the early spring. What can audiences expect from the Tartan Terrors in 2025? New music? New merchandise? More dancing?  We’ve been reworking some of our older material that we stopped playing for a few years and we’ve been writing our butts off. The creative wheels are always turning and we’re constantly workshopping new ideas. For our January show, we’re bringing back an old pipe tune and we’re premiering 2 brand new songs. We’ve got new posters, pictures, Christmas ornaments, shirts, colouring books…all kinds of new things at the merch table!

Can fans listen to the Tartan Terrors on streaming services or do you prefer offering your music on vinyl or CD, and how can fans purchase the tunes?  We’re all over your favourite streaming platforms. We’re working on getting our older catalogue uploaded there as well. Ian says it the best on stage “You can download us 5,000 times and we make $0.0043”. I wish it wasn’t the reality of the situation, but as any musician now will attest to, it’s the reality. Our money is generated when people buy tickets to shows and then buy merchandise. Think of it as a way of supporting the band and getting a cool souvenir out of the deal. We still have CD’s but are going to be releasing a vinyl album featuring some of our favourite Terrors tracks along with some live versions of the songs. I’m not sure if that’s to be public knowledge or not, but here we are. As it’s our first vinyl release, we’re going to be printing a limited number of records…so keep an eye out for that and don’t wait. The best place to buy is at our shows, but we do have an online store on our website that we’ll mail you merch too.
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You can follow Tartan Terrors on social media: @tartanterrors and all band news, merchandise, shows and tickets available on their website: https://tartanterrors.com/ 

GARY TOPP RECOUNTS A LIFE PROMOTING CANADIAN & INT’L BANDS IN NEW BOOK “HE HIJACKED MY BRAIN”

HE HIJACKED MY BRAIN: Gary Topp’s Toronto
Published by UXB Press
320 Pages
Price: $49.99
Available from uxbpresscanada.bigcartel.com

I arrived in Toronto in 1975 and immediately found myself in the middle of a music vortex – all sorts of genres, venues, artists and local indie promoters, the best of whom, in my opinion, were known as The Garys (Gary Topp and Gary Cormier). The Garys booked and promoted punk, rock, alternative (before that genre had a name) and the bizarre. While I was queen of the discos in the late 70s, I also secretly hung out at places like the New Yorker, The Edge, Larry’s Hideaway, the Roxy, the Isabella, and all the grubby, grungy little underground venues and speakeasies that offered stage time to the hundreds of musicians plying their trade in Toronto.

Reading Gary Topp’s first-person recounting of Toronto’s music scene over the past five+ decades, I marveled at the number of shows I actually attended myself. Fortunately, not being fueled by drugs or (too much) booze, I was able to remember so many evenings at the clubs thanks to the hundreds of photos and poster images in the book and the myriad of quotes and first-hand recounting of tales only insiders could know. Bravo, Gary (pictured below), for amassing this diary-like tome containing first-person recollections from yourself and your colleagues that will instantly transport readers back to the days when so many of us held down 9 to 5 day jobs then turned into bar flies, punk rockers, and rabid fans of the artists on stage each night.Any Toronto music fan worth his/her salt will want to add this book to their collection. It truly is a series of history lessons from the people who created the scene, and Gary’s recollections are clear and sharp. He brought in international artists just on the cusp of greatness proving his and his partner(s) eye for talent (The Police, Roxy Music, Simple Minds, B-52s) and artists who scared other club promoters to death such as Iggy Pop, The Ramones, The Cure and the now-legendary local band Rough Trade. He always treated bands with respect and gave them the break they needed when nobody else would. Gary was a gambler and we are all the better for his commitment to the music. His career is a blueprint of how to build a life in music promotions ; he had no template to follow so he made it up as he went along…readers will follow his journey from working at the old Roxy cinema as a young man, to booking musicians and finding new ways to fill theatres and sell tickets. He created the iconic annual outdoor Police Picnic concerts in the 80s starring the edgy Brit band as well as line-ups of popular artists who might never perform here under regular circumstances.  He knew how to collaborate with venue operators to create a win-win-win result, and generated exciting posters and promo materials long before internet and email democratized the business of show. To borrow from a promotional piece on the book “From taverns to concert halls, cinemas to circuses, the city’s most daring and visionary promoter transformed Toronto’s cultural landscape over five decades. Packed with first-hand accounts and rare photographs, the book vividly celebrates the revolutionary events that countered Toronto’s culture.”He Hijacked My Brain is a veritable who’s who of bands and artists who challenged our collective musical appetites such as The Viletones, Buzzcocks, Plasmatics, The Cramps, Violent Femmes, even Grandmaster Flash and Husker Du. I could go on and on and on naming names of artists who owe a debt of gratitude to the author, as well as paying tribute to the venues and other music promoters, managers and supporters whose stories are all included….but just buy the damn book!Gary is launching He Hijacked My Brain on Sunday December 1st at the old Masonic Temple at Yonge & Davenport in Toronto but it’s now SOLD OUT (typical of a Gary Topp  gig!) but he does it again at 7pm in The Red Room – Mason’s Inner Sanctum, Masonic Temple/Concert Hall, 888 Yonge St. ticketweb.ca

CONGRATS TO ALL THE IFFA WINNERS & AWARD SHOW PRODUCERS DOWN UNDER!

I previously introduced readers to the Int’l Film Festival of Australia – the Awards ceremony was held last week in Melbourne and was a huge success. Here’s a brief summary, courtesy of their Assistant Project Coordinator, Carolina, as well as a few photos from the red carpet and stage. Bravo, Team IFFA!

IFFA Awards 2024: A Night of Glitz, Glamour, and Global Talent
The International Film Festival of Australia (IFFA) 2024 wrapped up in spectacular fashion, bringing together film industry icons, rising stars, and global talent for a night of celebration and creativity. Held at Melbourne’s iconic Palms Crown, the event was a resounding success, overflowing with stunning performances, heartfelt speeches, and unforgettable moments. It was a night that not only celebrated the finest filmmakers but also showcased IFFA’s commitment to inclusivity, elevating the global film community.A Red Carpet to Remember
Before the awards were handed out, the red carpet buzzed with energy as the brightest stars of the film world arrived, dressed to impress. It’s not every day that you get to meet so many industry legends in one place, but IFFA made it happen. The excitement was palpable as guests shared smiles, posed for photos, and caught the best moments of the night. Everyone looked absolutely stunning, with dazzling suits and elegant dresses adding to the special occasion. It was a glamorous start to a night that promised to be unforgettable.  Here’s the gorgeous Moraya Wilson (R) being interviewed on the red carpet…A Night of Unforgettable Performances
The evening kicked off with Cody Simpson‘s incredible live acoustic performance (pictured below), which had the audience completely captivated. His soulful voice and raw talent added a beautiful touch to the event, leaving everyone in awe.One of the highlights of the night was Moraya Wilson’s innovative QR session, where guests could engage with the event in an interactive and modern way. It was a perfect blend of technology and art, making the night even more memorable.

Presenters Who Shined
The IFFA Awards 2024 brought together a stellar lineup of presenters who guided the night’s proceedings with grace and charisma, delivering plenty of fun moments that added extra excitement to the evening. Louis Child, James Pratt, and Paul O’Brien brought their unique charm to the event, ensuring that the awards were presented with style and glamour. Their quick wit and engaging personalities kept the audience entertained throughout the night, adding even more sparkle to an already glamorous affair.A Celebration of Global Talent
This year’s IFFA Awards showcased the incredible diversity and talent of filmmakers from around the world, with over 100 creators joining the celebration. From Australia to the farthest reaches of the globe, the festival offered a platform for all voices to be heard. Special categories for younger filmmakers, students, and emerging child actors, alongside the more traditional awards for feature films, animation, documentaries, and short films, made sure every level of talent was recognized.

Cultural Performances That Lit Up the Stage
Adding an extra layer of excitement to the evening were cultural performances that left the audience spellbound. A lively Latin dance performance injected energy and passion into the night, while a mesmerizing Bollywood dance number (pictured below) brought the glamour and rhythm of Indian cinema to the stage. These performances perfectly complemented the spirit of the evening and highlighted the rich cultural diversity of the IFFA community.Honoring Exceptional Talent Across Categories
The evening was all about recognizing the hard work and incredible talent of filmmakers from around the world. Among the winners, Joel Pierce took home Best Actor in a Short Film for Mirror Mirror, and Priyanka Nomula won Best Actress for Echo. Raj Sisodiaa won Best Director for Papa aur Smartphone, while Chris Beadnell’s The Note earned Best Screenplay.

In the Feature Film category, Just a Farmer claimed the coveted Best Feature Film award (pictured below), dominating the evening with multiple nominations across various categories. The film’s powerful narrative about the struggles of farmers, their mental health challenges, and the tireless effort behind getting food onto our tables captivated audiences. Just a Farmer is a heart-touching and eye-opening portrayal of the reality many farmers face daily, showcasing the hidden sacrifices behind every meal. The film’s emotional depth and social significance were truly deserving of the recognition it received. Sunny Deol’s powerful performance in Gadar 2 earned him the Best Actor award, and Cristiana Dell’Anna won Best Actress for Cabrini. Other notable awards included Best Supporting Actor Daniel Wu for Decoded, and Best Supporting Actress Susan Pryor for Just a Farmer. The Best Director award went to Dev Patel for Monkey Man, while Just a Farmer also took home Best International Feature Film.The Animation category was swept by A Robot’s Dream by Morteza Halimi, a very impressive work that utilized 10% AI, demonstrating how creativity can be enhanced through technology. This groundbreaking approach allows us to appreciate how the right tools and technology can elevate the creative process, resulting in an extraordinary piece of art. Joy of Art by Takaya Onishi claimed the Documentary award. The Best International Short Film award went to The Wandering Island, further showcasing the festival’s global reach and its celebration of diverse voices from around the world.The night also celebrated younger filmmakers, with Harrison J Thomas’s Melody winning Best Under 18 film. JJ Pantano (pictured below) took home the Best Emerging Child Actor award for Unsung Hero, marking the beginning of a promising career for this rising star.A Shining Night in Melbourne
The IFFA Awards 2024 was truly a night to remember, filled with stars, creativity, and celebration. Melbourne, with its vibrant culture and the stunning Palms Crown, served as the perfect backdrop for an evening that honored the best of the film world. The event highlighted the magic of storytelling, showcasing filmmakers’ talents and reinforcing IFFA’s mission to promote global cinema. As the stars shone brightly both on and off the stage, it was clear that the night was a fitting tribute to the art of filmmaking and the talented individuals who are shaping the future of cinema. With such a successful and heartwarming celebration this year, we have big expectations for next year’s IFFA Awards. We can’t wait to be surprised once again by the incredible talent and unforgettable moments that will define the future of the festival.
For more information, visit iffa.com.au and follow us on Instagram at @iffaawards.

So CONGRATULATIONS to all the winners, performers, hosts, organizers…it looks like a fabulous night was had by all.

MEET CLAUDJA BARRY, ONE OF THE LEGENDARY LADIES OF DISCO

Yes, I’ll admit it, I’m a sucker for 70s & 80s music – in fact, the disco era was my “coming of age” – you could always find me dancing at Toronto’s big clubs and hotel lounges where I became part of the “disco dollies” set who were out dancing 3 or 4 nights a week. Exhausting? Yes, but as Gloria Gaynor said…”I Will Survive”.  There were so many incredible queens of disco including Donna Summer, Candi Staton, Anita Ward, Tina Charles and one of my favourites, CLAUDJA BARRY.

So famous was she, Claudja has been featured in the book “First Ladies of Disco” by James Arena (avail. on Amazon) and even wrote the forward to the book.Claudja has built an amazing recording career, as well as acting in Hollywood films and on theatre stages creating unforgettable characters, after studying at the world-famous Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute in New York City. She’s performed in plays in both NYC and Toronto, then went off to Europe starring in numerous stage productions in the UK and Germany where Claudja met successful Munich-based music producer Jurgen Korduletsch. Together, she and Korduletsch formed a creative partnership with Jurgen producing and Claudja co-writing and performing. Her full bio is available on her website: https://www.theclaudjabarry.com/bioI had the pleasure of meeting Claudja this past summer, when she made a special appearance at the annual Pride concert in downtown Toronto. She is still so gorgeous, articulate and passionate about her career so I was thrilled when she agreed to be interviewed for my blog – I just wish I could have gone to visit her in the Caribbean to deliver the questions in person…

Claudja, what an incredible and lengthy career you’ve enjoyed…and are still enjoying. With your #1 hit on the Billboard dance Chart in 2006, and subsequent recordings, are you still enjoying live appearances and fan meet-n-greets?  Performing is my lifeline to joy and pleasure. I feel alive whenever I’m in front of an audience. The immediate feedback is something that I enjoy. I get schooled at each performance. Meet and greets used to be interesting because I meet new people and longtime fans, but we have to be much more aware of who we’re meeting up close and personal.I understand you originally fell in love with theatre and also studied voice and classical music. Was it your theatrical experiences that triggered your love of singing and embracing disco music which, in itself, was very theatrical? I just wanted to perform on whichever platform or genre presented itself. I would have loved to do opera. I studied for 3 years…I would have been a great CARMEN. I would have had to continue studying for another 7 years, but along came Boogie Woogie Dancin Shoes…a little different from Carmen LOL.  Looking back now, I’m terribly proud of being among the pioneers who developed and defined DISCO Music. I think of myself as being the Leontyne Price of Disco music. Throughout the 80s, you spent time in Europe, performing and recording, and you partnered with German producer, Jurgen Korduletsch, who helped create some of your biggest hits. That must have been an extraordinary experience for you…can you share any stories from that period of your career?   JK was my producer throughout my recording life. He, along with Bobby Orlando and Jorg Evers, created the sound of Claudja Barry. During that time musicians from the Munich Philharmonic played on most of my albums. We recorded in Munich and toured all through Europe. One of the most exciting countries was Italy. I remember opening the Festival Bar in front of 100,000 people in the Verona Arena. What a thrill that was for me.

 

Over the years since disco ruled the radio airwaves, you have continued to work both as a singer & recording artist, but also developing your filmmaking skills. Can you tell us about your current documentary project.  I’m producing a documentary on the impact of disco on today’s pop music….but more on that at a later date.

You’ve had so many “firsts” in your long career including becoming the first inductee into Canada’s Black Music Hall of Fame along with legendary pianist, Oscar Peterson. What other honours and awards have you received?


You’re enjoying a resurgence in popularity, especially with younger music fans discovering your artistry, are you planning any concert appearances or tours in 2025?  That is my plan. I’m in talks with concert promoters specializing in disco-themed tours and concert presentations.

Thank you so much, Claudja, I can’t wait to see what next year holds for you; I’m looking forward to viewing your documentary.  Claudja’s music videos are available on YouTube and you can follow her on social media, too.  IG @claudja_barry

GRAMMY WINNER RON KORB LAUNCHES LATEST ALBUM “GLOBAL CANVAS” WITH OCT. 4 CONCERT IN TORONTO

Internationally-renowned flutist and composer Ron Korb is again sharing his love of world music with his latest album full of Latin, Middle Eastern, European and Asian  influences, played by outstanding culturally diverse musicians.  The physical CD of Global Canvas drops officially on Friday October 4th with a special concert on at the 3030 Dundas West club (details at end of blog). He will be joined on stage by many of the artists who recorded the 18 tracks with Ron, including Bill Evans (piano/keyboards), Steve Lucas (bass), Xiaoqiu Lin (erhu), Larry Crowe (drums), Victoria Yeh (violin), Rick Shadrach Lazar (Latin and Middle Eastern percussion) Ray Hickey Jr (guitar & koto) plus other guests.

I’m going to let Ron tell you about the project himself…..

You always give us beautiful cover art (photographs) and liner notes on your albums. Your wife, Jade, is a talented photographer and a brilliant design collaborator, creating such beautiful covers for all your albums. It was pointed out to me by one of your dedicated fans that this is the first time you’re shown without a flute in hand. Why the change in style….are you re-branding?  The Global Canvas cover and album design wasn’t a conscious rebranding but the image just felt right. It is the idea of having a blank page from which the inspiration will spring. If you look closely you will even see subtle white brush strokes adding some texture and the white shirt I am wearing just blends into the canvas texture. We did try the opposite approach of having explosive vivid colours representing the energetic world music grooves on the CD but in the end this seemed more true somehow. Now that I think about it, the introspective cover portrait really captures the look of someone working out ideas in their head. 
Ron incudes a track called “Angkor Wat” that was inspired by a trip to Cambodia with Human Rights activist Arn Chorn Pond, to whom Ron was introduced by one of the most famous artists of the past 40+yrs. Watch this video to learn who….

And what’s next once Global Canvas is out in the world…do you have special performances lined up or more film work?  I have been invited to perform in Ricky Kej’s group in Dubai in January. Ricky is a 3 time Grammy winning artist and very well known and popular in his home country of India. There are some other great performing opportunities materializing in 2025. I also play on Ricky’s new album and also Masa’s new single Kashira.  In my life, I never know what new thing is around the corner. Film work or studio always comes up very quickly so we shall see what the New Year will bring.

If you’d like to join Ron at his launch concert in Toronto you can click on his website for full details: www.ronkorb.com
GLOBAL CANVAS album release concert
Friday October 4th at 3030 Dundas West in The Junction (Toronto)
Doors open 7pm – Show starts 8pm
Tickets $35 at door or $30 in advance from Ron’s website or via Eventbrite.ca
To reserve your table, contact club 3030 Dundas W at 3030.table.reservations@gmail.com

Follow Ron on social media: Fcbk + IG @RonKorb

MEET TALENTED AUSSIE DOCUMENTARIAN BENJAMIN SCOTFORD WHOSE LATEST FILM FOLLOWS WWI FEATURE FILM CAST & CREW

As you know, I search out any Australian film or TV news I can find online – so much content is not shared with those of us on the other side of the world: streaming platforms for films are geo-blocked due to distribution deals that don’t include the Canada/US territory so I have to live vicariously thru my Down Under production mates and various news sources. I recently discovered a very talented filmmaker, BENJAMIN SCOTFORD (pictured below) who produced an exciting behind-the-scenes documentary titled IN THE TRENCHES that follows the machinations of a feature film production called Before Dawn, directed by Jordan Prince-Wright.Benjamin’s doc has been getting lots of buzz on the festival circuit and this past weekend, was premiered at the Revelation Film Fest presented in Perth, Western Australia (my childhood/teenage home) – the WWI action/adventure feature was filmed in the southern part of the state complete with muddy trenches (hence the title of Ben’s film), cannons and gunfire, and Ben took his own crew into the fray, following the actors, the director and crew, to shoot all the activity from the busy set. It was quite the feat – staying out of the way yet capturing all the action of a war film production in close-up.
Director’s Statement: This documentary is intended to be a standalone story, enjoyable for a wide range of audiences, even if they are unfamiliar with Before Dawn or Australia’s involvement in WWI. I have aimed to capture the story in a manner that closely reflects my first-hand experience of witnessing a group of dedicated filmmakers working against a mountain of obstacles before knowing the final outcome.
I spoke with Benjamin recently and asked that he share his thoughts and stories…from the trenches.

How difficult was it for you to shoot all the behind-the-scenes footage amongst the film crew, the mud and the actors?  There’s always an element of challenge with BTS footage because the most important part of your job is to stay out of the way and avoid disrupting the production itself. That said, it’s quite a fun challenge to find ways of filming what’s happening while keeping a low profile and staying out of the way. One big challenge with this project was that I also had to look out for my own camera gear among the rainy conditions and muddy set. By the end, I had worked out a streamlined setup that protected my gear from the wet weather, while still having the flexibility to move quickly and get quality footage.
Aside from that, a lot of the creative challenges come down to building scenes through the on-set footage to help tell the story in the edit. I had to make sure that each time we moved location, I got a variety of shots that could build upon each other. Sometimes this meant following different crew members in a way that would showcase their process. It is easy to get one or two good angles of something happening, but having a series of shots that tell a full story really helps in the edit. What inspired you to undertake this project?  I love watching behind the scenes content and noticed recently that there hasn’t been a regular influx of high quality, insightful documentaries in that space. I’ve always thought it would be a fun area to work in, and since I’ve started doing it, I’ve grown more and more passionate about seeing it done in an innovative way.

I know you’ve submitted to film festivals around the world…are you hoping to showcase your doc via streaming platforms, too? Maybe Prime or Netflix?  Absolutely! Details to come soon. Am sure there was a great deal of camaraderie on-set – were you and your small crew included or did you remain separate from the feature film folks?  A bit of both. During lunch breaks and other moments throughout the day, we enjoyed getting to know the cast and crew and feeling like a part of the team. However, we did try to stay a little bit separate on set so that we could tell the story from a more observational perspective. Overall, it really did feel like we were all part of a big team, since we were all going through a very similar experience together. Did you relate to the young director/producer Jordan Prince-Wright, both being of the same generation of filmmakers? Did that make you sympathetic to his tremendous responsibility?  Yes, I’ve got a lot of respect for the way Jordon works and how much he is able to accomplish. I’m not sure I would want as much pressure as he’s under, but it’s been inspiring to see him make it work as well as he has. I think passion breeds passion. Seeing how much he was putting into the project got me really excited to bring the same level of passion to my part, which also transferred to the team I was working with for the behind the scenes. Hopefully, we’ll see you at film/doc festivals over the coming months – what’s next for you?  Exciting times! We are hoping to screen In the Trenches in some more film festivals, since a lot of our target market is made up of people who are excited by the filmmaking process. I’m also producing behind the scenes content for a few other films, and working towards doing a lot more of it in the future.

Thanks, Benjamin. So here’s a taste of what an incredible shoot this was, for both the feature filmmaker AND documentarian, Scotford.

Photos courtesy of Keana Naughton

You can follow Ben on his filmmaking journey via LinkedIn or https://www.facebook.com/benjamin.scotford

The doc made me proud to be an Aussie, especially one who loves the movies. Bravo, Ben…I can’t wait to see more of your work.

MARA JEAN QUINN’S DEBUT FEATURE FILM, ANDAMOOKA, IS IN THE CAN…NOW SHE PRESENTS IT TO THE WORLD

Australian writer, director, producer AND lead actor, MARA JEAN QUINN, can finally take a breath, sit down, relax and reflect on the cinematic journey she’s (almost) completed. Her first indie feature film project ANDAMOOKA, is now completed and after a little respite to re-energize, Mara Jean is now on a quest to get the film distributed across Australia and around the world. Major decisions still being made include whether to screen in theatres, at festivals, or via one of the many streaming platforms that international audiences can access…and getting the $s to take her to all the film festivals as well.
I originally spoke with Mara Jean back in May of 2023 when she was still fundraising to finish the last stages of production (search previous blog using key word “Andamooka”) and I’m thrilled to hear all her positive news, especially that she has recently expanded her non-film family to include a baby daughter – congratulations, MJ!  So let’s catch up with her and learn how the process of making an indie film has enlightened and empowered her…..

Now that the film has been completed, was the effort (production, travel, funding quest, sleepless nights) worth it?   I think so, but because it hasn’t been seen by audiences yet, it’s hard to be resolved in all the work that’s gone into it. Once it’s premiered and done some festivals, it will feel more real. Right now the film exists in a bit of a vacuum, only the creators and a few other people have seen it. In terms of learning, the last five years feels like I’ve completed a PhD in filmmaking. I am still no master by any means, but I do feel I’ve got a real understanding of what goes into a film and I am grateful for that. I also look forward to seeing what opportunities arise as a result of completing my debut feature, hopefully those make it all worthwhile too.In hindsight, is there anything you would have done differently, either as producer or director? There are so many things I did wrong at literally every stage of the production. I think this was mostly due to my naivety and lack of producing experience. If I had the knowledge and wisdom I have now there is no way I would take such risk and sink so much time and money into a project. So from that perspective I’m grateful I had no idea what I was doing, because it means I actually did it.
Next time I would like to have a distributor behind me from the start as well as a producer (and some decent funding!).  I am not a producer at heart, only out of necessity. There are far more talented and skilled producers out there who I’d love to work with. I also don’t think I’ll direct myself in a lead role again, I really love collaborating with other artists and the director-actor relationship is very special.

Congratulations on a beautifully shot film – the country is clearly a character itself and many of the shots are nothing short of breathtaking. Who scouted locations for you?  Thank you, I really do love the cinematography; Adamooka’s DOP Danni Ogilive did an incredible job.  I agree, the landscape is a character, it’s often just Alex set amongst an epic landscape. In terms of finding the locations, I had conversations with people I knew in the Territory when I was writing the script so I had a few ideas of places to go and particular spots to shoot scenes. We also happened across lots of places along the road, often by just needing somewhere to camp that night. Of course, the locals in each place shared some of their favourite spots and we were able to explore those. We went to so many amazing places, it actually pains me how much had to end up on the edit room floor.
In the middle of shooting and funding campaigns, you had a baby….talk about multi-tasking!! Now that both your babies are alive and kicking, I have to ask: would you undertake such a cinematic journey again?  Hmmm, that’s a good one. I would love to shoot another film, and even another road movie/adventure film, but I would need someone there to help with my baby. Either my partner or my Mum, but my partner is an amazing filmmaker too, so I’d want his attention on the film. To make another film in general I would need a lot more support anyway. My little girl would just add to the madness. She was actually born shortly after the completion of the film, thankfully.

Have you had a screening for cast, production crew, friends and family? And if so, what was their feedback? My friends and family want to see it at the premiere and actually celebrate it, so they’re holding off. Some have seen little snippets and have been very supportive. There’s a huge section in the credits called “Encouragement Thanks” with a huge list of names. I think in general it’s hard for people who know you to see you acting and separate you from the character. Also, the screenplay is very personal and my friends and family witnessed some parts of the story that are inspired by real life (big break up, I was a mess etc.), so it’s hard for them to see me in such pain, even though it’s years after.Have you secured theatrical distribution or festival showcases?  I have had lots of good feedback from the distributors I’ve chatted to, and there are a couple of offers, but it’s really hard to know which way to jump. A number of distributors have said it may not suit a theatrical release, unfortunately, but we’ll see. As long as it has a life and finds its audience. There are a few festivals I am currently waiting to hear from and am actively entering more – though everything costs money, so this limits the entries.

And what is your next film project…after a suitable rest, of course?  I have a couple of series in development and there are a few feature screenplay drafts from over the years too, plus the want to make multiple documentaries about things I am passionate about, but nothing I am actively pushing. Being the only one managing Andamooka I simply don’t have time or mental capacity to be creative or really start on the next project until it’s released. Who knew a film took so much paperwork! Having a nine week old baby takes a fair bit of my time too.  Thanks, Glenda

I’m so happy to see Mara Jean reach completion of the film, overcoming all the inherent challenges that stood in her way. Pure guts and a belief in herself and her script, as well as surrounding herself with the right people to drive the project to the finish line. Bravo!

You can follow Mara Jean’s creative journey via:  https://www.facebook.com/andamookafilm and instagram.com/andamookafilm

MEET CARLA COLLINS: SHOWBIZ RENAISSANCE WOMAN & HARDEST WORKING COMEDIAN IN DA BIZ!

Oh, how I LOVE this funny lady! Carla Collins has been making me laugh for many years (I won’t say how many ‘coz a lady never tells her age – Carla’s or mine!). This Canadian-born comedy powerhouse has created a brilliant creative niche for herself in Los Angeles that puts Ryan Seacrest to shame – Carla does it all.  She’s won awards for her acting, has built a HUGE fan-base for her stand-up comedy and tv series, modelled, authored an hysterical autobiographical book, and is now conquering the radio airwaves as co-host of the LA AF show. She also Founded a unique comedy/meditation program that launched just as Covid hit us (and it took off online throughout pandemic isolation) and is currently applying her artsy-fartsy sketching skills to produce custom “vision boards” for friends and clients. Way too many skills and credits to list here…whew! So why don’t I just let her tell it herself….laughing out loud is permissible and inevitable!!Carla, as the old ad says… “you’ve come a long way baby”. Did you ever imagine you would be such a successful creative producer, web series hostess, author and comedy goddess in Los Angeles when you first stepped onto the comedy stages here in Toronto?  Oh Honey, you’re so sweet but I’m just out here hustling and happy to be doing what I love. Been a rough couple of years for the industry with the strikes and the Jean-Claude Pan Damme so I’m lucky I’m a bit of an arts Swiss army knife and can do some comedy, some acting, some voiceover work, some hosting and even some drawing. You’ll know that I’ve finally made it when I have a butler called Cavendish, warm kittens stacked up next to my bidet instead of moist toilettes and I’m wearing Fruit of the Illuminati underwear!I remember back in…well, quite some time ago… when the CTV network sent you to Hollywood to host their Oscar red carpet news and interviews. Was it terrifying or did you feel you were finally with “my people”?   Yup, it’s been a minute since my red-carpet days and I think I was one of the first Canucks covering the Oscars red-carpet. It was pretty nerve wracking at the time because we were live, and I used to get very anxious doing new things. Now I would jump up and do 45 minutes of stand-up at a garage sale! I have always loved LA but I don’t think this place is necessarily anyone’s tribe or people, more like another planet with great weather! It was wonderful to meet Sting in person and ask him what would last longer, an Academy Awards acceptance speech or a tantric orgasm? As I remember, I took a lot of heat for the Judy Jetson outfit I wore. No regrets!  (G: Oh I remember that orange sparkly thing well)

Comedic Meditation – you launched this initiative several years ago, helping people reach nirvana (or at least sort out some shit) via comedy and yoga and just chillin’ out – a strange intersection of philosophies, sure, but it all worked. How/why did you launch CM and how important did your online presentations become during Covid?  Actually, there’s absolutely no yoga involved whatsoever, even though I’ve been practising yoga for a couple of decades now. This is simply stand-up comedy followed by an authentic, original guided meditation. It happened pretty organically as I have been a big fan of meditation for years. My Mom practiced Transcendental Meditation so I’ve always known how beneficial meditation can be but so many people in LA are self-proclaimed gurus and many of my friends were too intimidated to go to a meditation center. I started this at a friend’s chiropractic and wellness space here in the valley one night a few months before the pandemic. I had been writing my own meditations for a couple of years because I wasn’t loving the ones online and I wanted to remove the woo woo factor and make meditation more accessible and digestible to everyone. I’m also a very hyper person, most of the time I shake like a chihuahua on meth after a couple of 5 Hour Energy drinks so I figured laughing for 20 or 30 minutes before sitting or lying still to meditate would help burn some energy, release endorphins or at the very least, people would hear about my crazy life and feel better about theirs! Turns out laughter and mediation are a great combo because they both produce the same gamma brainwaves.People seemed to really enjoy the odd marriage right out of the gate, and I was lucky to get some lovely media coverage early on. Chuckle & Chill (that’s what I call it now) combines my two greatest passions: comedy and wellness/spirituality. I think it seems natural that haha moments would lead to aha moments. I was in Canada doing a mini-Chuckle & Chill tour when the world shutdown and C&C transitioned fairly seamlessly online. I believe people were very stressed and felt more comfortable doing this in their own places. Everyone loved that they could just roll over and go to sleep after a session and didn’t have to drive home! I tailor both the comedy and the meditations to make them more personal for each group or individual.  I mean who doesn’t need to laugh and relax more in these rapture adjacent times?

You currently have several projects on the go, including Laugh of Attraction, and especially your unique Vision Pop Boards. You’re helping people create visualizations of their wishes and dreams, right? So how can we get our own customized vision boards? Yes! The Laugh of Attraction family now includes Laffirmations (merry mantras that make you giggle and punch through to your subconscious more easily than the generic affirmations. For example: “My skin is as smooth as jazz” or “I have an attitude of gratitude when I’m in the nude”), “Chaneling” instead of channeling with my French lingerie model stand up psychic character Souffle (“Knock, knock, I know who’s there and what to wear”), Vision Pop Boards where I draw you and what you want to manifest (see below) and coming soon my Tarot Grigio comedic tarot card deck.When I was a kid and throughout high school, I wanted to be a fine artist. Shout out to my Facebook friend and high school art teacher Mr. Olsen! I would overthink and stress about each drawing or painting, so I abandoned my watercolors even though art was my first love. This year I started sketching again on the down low. My brother and best pal Rick, who teaches Art History at a private school in New Zealand, saw my sketches when he was visiting over the holidays and encouraged me to keep going.  I was sketching little vision boards because I heard it was a great manifestation tool and I found it very therapeutic. Rick asked me to make him one. I posted a couple of them online and started getting orders from friends and lovely people on socials. Rick felt my style was more pop art/cartoon thus Vision Pop Boards! Basically, I ask people to send me a few pictures of themselves along with things they love and want to bring into their lives. I sketch the person in the middle of the piece and use symbols, drawings of their desires, pastels and some magic to create the boards. I also do some generic feelgood boards like a winning scratcher ticket. These can all be used as phone or computer wallpapers. You can order your customized VPB by hitting me up on Insta or FB or emailing me directly: carla@carlacollins.com So tell me about your “professional 3-way” with Grace and Jimmy co-hosting the LA AF podcast – how did you meet, what was the “lightbulb moment” that focused your sights on hosting the show? And what is LA AF all about?  Jimmy McCammon and Grace Fae McCammon reached out to me on Instagram back in December and asked me to be a guest on LA AF, a Los Angeles-centric show that has some fun at the city’s expense. I believe their tagline is News. Culture. Snark. As a good, trusting Canadian, I literally drove to a stranger’s home in Pasadena whom I had never met out in the wild or even spoken to. I keep joking that I could have ended up on Dateline. Instead, I was really impressed because Jimmy is an amazing producer and is very funny. He reminds me of my bro. The whole show has a morning radio vibe, is jam-packed with pop culture and is loosey goosey but professional. Grace is a phenomenal jazz singer, like a modern-day femme fatale from the 1940s and a beautiful spiritual soul. They are just the most lovely and talented couple. The chemistry was straight fire and there was a seamless ease to the hour when I was a guest. In January, Jimmy reached out to ask if I would be interested in being a regular host for two of their three shows a week and it’s been a delight ever since. We are getting some great guests and numbers and I’m loving it. It reminds me of my radio days. I have been asked to join several podcasts but this time it just worked. I believe Jimmy started this podcast during the pandemic then Grace joined him and now, we’re a throuple! Professionally speaking of course.Listeners can stream the shows on Spotify, iTunes, etc. and join LA AF Patreon for the entire show with lots idle extras for just $1 a month https://www.patreon.com/laaf?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator

We all loved you in Carlawood – the comedic tv series telling of your quest for fame and paid gigs in Hollywood. So has your life actually mirrored those tv episodes?  Often and it’s only become weirder and more entertaining, I wish we were still filming. It was back on good, old fashioned cable TV in Canada. More recently on Amazon Prime. When I first moved here, I thought people in LA didn’t understand sarcasm but it’s more that it’s so wild and weird in this city, anything is possible and can happen. Los Angeles is almost impossible to parody. I think there is always a lot of fodder in my life mostly because I constantly find myself doing comedy in the oddest places: funerals, wealthy people’s living rooms, nudist colonies (I mean, where am I supposed to keep my phone?). I’ve had to follow Burlesque performers who are wearing less material than Carrot Top’s act and doing gymnastics on stage with great names like BonBon Paris and Lola Boutee. At that moment, I don’t want to do comedy, I just want to become a Burlesque dancer called Gigi Hadidn’t. I’ve performed stand up at a hospice here (that afternoon we were all dying…) and I’ve even performed at the Kabbalah Center in Beverly Hills where I told them my Hebrew drag queen name was Yum Yum Kippur! Also, LA is loaded with so many delicious, crazy characters right outta central casting, literally. There’s never any shortage of material here. I recently found out my yoga instructor was a coke head. This explains why we kept only taking in deep inhales. It’s very convenient to take a snort in downward facing dog! I also now know it wasn’t yoga keeping her so slim and confident.Any more fabulous books in the works? Angels, Vampires & Douchebags (2010) was brilliant, hilarious and a very insightful look into the life of a vixen on her journey to tinseltown. You must have enough material for at least 3 or 4 more books….  Aw, thank you so much Doll, you are too kind. I have recently completed writing a children’s/inspirational book called The HuaHua Way. It’s a love letter to my beloved Chihuahua mix Dr. Zira who passed away. It’s the “true” story of my three dogs: Buster, Miles and Dr. Zira (pictured below with their mistress) which subtly tackles some heavy issues like grief, divorce, sexism, etc… and I hope it brings comfort and joy to animal lovers everywhere. It’s currently being illustrated and should be released in time for the holidays this year.  Right now, I’m working on another non-fiction book called Botox in my Third Eye which, like Angels, Vampires and Douchebags, is somewhat autobiographical and combines comedy with self-help.And your stand-up comedy – you’ve headlined and guested on so many of the BIG stages (and TV specials) across the US and Canada…where are you appearing next, where can fans come out to worship you?   Hahaha worship! Welp, you can come laugh at me for sure. I will be on at The Laugh Factory on April 18th with iconic host Frazer Smith. Just follow moi on Instagram @carlacollinscomedian for all upcoming dates and hopefully I’ll be back in Canada for some shows soon.Any other news or stories you’d like to share?  Just that I appreciate wonderful goddesses like you who have always been wonderfully supportive. You have been a tireless champion to many Canadian entertainers, and we really appreciate your expertise and wit Darling. Remember, every time you laugh…an angel gets knocked up by Nick Cannon or Elon Musk so keep laughing! xo

Visit Carla’s website for all her social media links, videos, funny business, news and more… https://www.carlacollins.com/This blog is dedicated to Carla’s muse, the late great Dr. Zira (below)

Canadian disabled paddleboarder makes history crossing all 5 Great Lakes – see the documentary at COMMFFest this Friday

Thanks to my friend and fellow publicist, Danielle Iversen, I stepped away from TIFF to learn about the Community Arts & Film Festival taking place Sept. 14 to 22 in Toronto (celebrating its 18th anniversary this year), and the premiere of a special documentary to inform and inspire us all.

Award-winning director Matthew Wagner is thrilled to premiere his latest documentary When Hope Breaks Through, at this year’s Community Arts & Film Festival. Screening takes place at the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, 27 Front St East, at 1:30pm Friday Sept. 15th. Tickets are available through: https://am.ticketmaster.com/tolive/commffest2023The feature length doc tells the inspiring story of Mike Shoreman, a disabled paddleboarder who attempts to become the first person with disabilities to cross all five Great Lakes. In 2018 Mike was diagnosed with a neurological condition – Ramsay Hunt syndrome – that left him paralyzed, suffering vertigo, hearing and vision loss which ultimately led to depression and a mental health breakdown. This riveting documentary explores the mental health crisis in Canada and our relationships with our own mental health. The film immerses the audience in Mike’s epic five crossings, encompassing over 300 kilometers of open water paddling accompanied by his dedicated crossings team. These strangers come together to form an inseparable bond as they faced and conquered obstacles from boats breaking down, medical emergencies to hallucinations and everything in between.Director/producer Wagner is a Michigan-based director & cinematographer whose previous documentary “Charro & Steed” has won awards (including Best Director, Best Editing and Best Documentary) at film festivals throughout the Great Lakes region and across the States. He is passionate about telling stories in a way that leaves an emotional impact to inspire change.

Mike Shoreman (www.mikeshoreman.com) is an award-winning mental health and disability advocate, athlete, author and columnist, writing on mental health and disability related issues. When Hope Breaks Through is his story.  His work in mental health awareness, promotion, and education is extensive, partnering with national and international mental health organizations. Shoreman became the first person with physical disabilities to cross the 5 Great Lakes in 2022. This endeavor became one of the largest independently-run mental health awareness campaigns for youth in Canada. The efforts of his team have been recognized in the Ontario Legislative Assembly, the Canadian House of Commons and by the Prime Minister of Canada (pictured below). Shoreman is the 2022 recipient of the Marg Starzynski Mental Health Leadership award by the Mood Disorder Society of Canada.The film is screening at many esteemed film festivals such as: Boston Film Festival, Rhode Island International Film Festival, Soo Film Festival, New Westminster Film Festival, Montreal International Film Festival, Central Alberta Film Festival, Docs Without Borders Film Festival, Canberra International Mental Health Film Festival, Awareness Film Festival, Grand Rapids Film Festival, New York International Film Awards & more.

FAQs
Q. Mike, how did the idea of crossing the Great Lakes come about?
A. I found myself with a passion and desire to help others who struggle greatly with their mental health. I wanted to do something big that would help raise awareness and funding for the youth mental health crisis in Canada.

Q. What are the themes of the film?
A. Perseverance, Mental Health and Suicide, Adventure, Water Sports, Paddle Boarding, Endurance Sports, Mental and Physical Endurance, Personal Growth, The Kindness of Strangers, The Power of Team, The Raw Determination of Human Strength, The Great Lakes.

Q. Where did the title come from?
A. Anyone who has ever struggled with mental health will be able to relate to a feeling of hopelessness at one time or another. During the crossings, there were moments when Mike experienced hopelessness as he pushed himself to fight through the grueling elements of the great lakes. However, as morning would break and the sun would peek over the horizon, Mike and the team felt as if hope itself was rising in the break of dawn. This rising hope is what we all endeavor to be part of as we raise awareness and shed light on the mental health crisis in Canada.Q. This film is about the mental health crisis, what do you hope this film achieves in its messaging?
A. This film was created by a team of individuals whose lives have all been touched in some capacity by mental health struggles. Because we are so passionate about mental health advocacy, it is our sincere hope that this film reminds audiences they are not alone in their struggles.
1. Start conversations about mental health
2. Keep conversations going about mental health
3. Help remove the stigma of mental health
4. Continue to break down the barriers to adequate mental health care

COMMFFest SCREENING: Friday Sept. 15th @ 1:30 PM
St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts – Jane Mallett Theatre – Toronto, ON
WWW.WHENHOPEBREAKSTHROUGH.COM
WWW.COMMFFEST.COM

 

CANADIAN WRITER/DIRECTOR TRICIA LEE COMES HOME FOR TORONTO INT’L FILM FEST

Ten years ago, I was contracted by Canadian (local) writer/director TRICIA LEE to undertake PR/publicity for her feature film Silent Retreat, a horror-genre film. I was intrigued by this modest young woman and her ability to bring the thrills, chills and screams to the screen; in fact, she was only one of a handful of women filmmakers around the world working in that genre.  I was thrilled to see the film become a resounding success at the Toronto After Dark and Blood in the Snow film fests.In the years since I worked with her, Tricia has become an accomplished AAPI female filmmaker with the ability to blend heart-warming and heart-breaking stories with uplifting humor has earned her recognition on the 2020 and 2021 Black List.  As a fellow of SONY’s Diverse TV Writers Program, Tricia’s films explore themes of belonging, voicelessness, and shared humanity. Her feature script, Good Chance has received numerous accolades, including being a top 50 finalist in The Academy Nicholl Fellowship, winning the grand prize at Francis Ford Coppola‘s Zoetrope Screenplay Competition, a top 14 finalist Universal Studios Writers Program, on the CAPE List and being selected for the prestigious Producers Guild of America Power of Diversity Master Workshop and The Writers Lab (supported by Meryl Streep & Nicole Kidman). A CDDP Commercial Director finalist, Tricia’s impressive directing credits include working with top talent such as Eva Longoria of Desperate Housewives fame, Simu Liu (star of Shang-Chi ,Canada’s famed tv comedy Kim’s Convenience and most recently Barbie), Ingrid Rogers (Bosch), and James Kyson (Heroes).  She has written a pilot for and will be a showrunner of the animated anthology A Banquet for Hungry Ghosts produced by 108 Media. She has directed 3 award-winning features including Blood Hunters which sold to Hulu and was presented in Cannes by Frontieres, and Silent Retreat, which was theatrically released across Canada and sold to NBC Universal’s Chiller Network.

I invited Tricia to join me for this “Live from the pool deck” celebrity blog so I’ll let her tell you all about her career and her latest projects….

I’ve followed Tricia’s career spanning her move to L.A. several years ago, her ongoing participation in high-profile workshops and programs where she’s honed her script writing chops, and having established herself as a film and commercial director and an accomplished writer. Tricia has returned to Toronto to soak in the vibes of our annual Toronto Int’l Film Festival so watch for her on the various red carpets, industry events and celebrity soirees.

You can learn more about Tricia via her website https://www.tricialeedirector.com/ and follow her on social media (see direct links on website)