Shows
2025 Season
Our season is just beginning.
THEATRE BY THE BAY LAUNCHES BOLD NEW ERA WITH FLAGSHIP FESTIVAL, TRAINING PROGRAMS, AND NEW ARTISTIC VISION
Barrie’s professional theatre company unveils world-class talent, regional storytelling, and a sharpened focus on impact, innovation, and inclusion.
Theatre by the Bay, Barrie’s leading professional theatre company, is stepping confidently into a new chapter with the launch of its revitalized 2025 season—headlined by the debut of the newly reimagined Barrie Theatre Festival, the introduction of two cornerstone artist development programs, and a bold new direction designed to elevate both artists and audiences.
Under the refreshed banner THEATRE BY THE BAY. Play On., the company is putting Barrie at the centre of a cultural movement—showcasing top-tier talent from across Canada while investing in emerging and underrepresented voices from Central Ontario. All 2025 productions and events will take place at the Five Points Theatre.
“This new chapter honours the foundation that’s been built over nearly 25 years,” says Glenn Coulson, Managing Producer. “We’re not starting over—we’re building forward. Theatre by the Bay is evolving into a company that’s as ambitious as it is inclusive, and as rooted in community as it is in artistic excellence. We’re creating space for local voices, national talent, and stories that bring us together.”
Stars Come Out: A Broadway Cabaret
Stars Come Out is Theatre by the Bay’s marquee fundraising gala—an elegant red carpet evening blending show-stopping entertainment, community celebration,

Theatre Festival
Oh yes, we’re back!
with the all-new Barrie Theatre Festival in Barrie in August 2025.

Tickets on Sale Now
Stars Come Out: A Broadway Cabaret
Stars Come Out is Theatre by the Bay’s marquee fundraising gala—an elegant red carpet evening blending show-stopping entertainment, community celebration, and powerful philanthropy. This year’s event supports our upcoming 2026 season and 25th anniversary year, as we continue to create bold, inclusive, and professional theatre that reflects the stories of Central Ontario.
Co-produced by Larissa Mair and Glenn Coulson, the performance portion of the evening features a dazzling mix of Broadway hits and musical theatre classics, performed by a lineup of Canadian stage and screen talent.
Stars Come Out Band Members include; Edwina Douglas (Piano), Nate Douglas (Guitar), Stuart Steinhart (Bass), and Allan Halford (Drums).
Set Design: Tim Webb and Dave Campbell.
Presenting Sponsors
Performers
Jully Black is a Canadian Icon and Global Star. Dubbed Canada’s Queen of RnB Soul, Jully’s ascent from
humble beginnings as a child of immigrant parents to record-breaking success as an award-winning
singer, actress, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, philanthropist, and fitness guru is also a testament to
the journey.
This multiple Juno award-winning singer, and one of Canada’s Walk of Fame inductees is also a
platinum-selling recording artist, named one of ‘The 25 Greatest Canadian Singers Ever’ (CBC Music) with
numerous Top 10 pop, R&B, and dance music hits. Her powerhouse vocals and electric stage presence
have made her a highly sought-after concert headliner. She has shared stages with stars like Elton John,
Alicia Keys, Celine Dion, Black Eyed Peas, Jessie Reyez and Paris Richards (with whom she tore down
Rolling Loud Festival T.O.). Drake also selected her to co-headline his ‘Road to OVO Fest – All Canadian
North Stars Tour, alongside other Canadian Hip Hop and R&B heavyweights.
Millions of downloads later, her extensive music catalogue continues to thrill fans, while her
compositions for industry heavyweights like Destiny’s Child and Nas, and collaborations with
singer/songwriters, and performance titans such as Ian Thornley (Big Wreck) and Serena Ryder,
demonstrate her versatility and highly respected songwriting skills. Jully has significantly impacted the Canadian media and entertainment industries and in 2021, was inducted into Canada’s prestigious Walk Of Fame. In 2024, she received the Billboard Canada; Women in Music Impact Award in recognition of her remarkable influence. She has been featured on numerous national television programs and platforms, including her intensely viral 2018 appearance on CBC’s ‘Canada Reads,’ her much-lauded TED Talk, and her appearance as a contestant on The Amazing Race
Canada in 2022. Flexing her acting chops, Jully’s displayed her comedic and dramatic skills with guest starring roles on TV shows like ‘Run the Burbs,’ ‘Pretty Hard Cases,’ ‘The Coroner’ and ‘Diggstown (which garnered her a
nomination for best guest performance in a drama series from the Canadian Screen Awards.) Jully has also made her mark on theatre stages, starring in plays like the critically acclaimed ‘Da Kink In
My Hair’ and ‘Caroline, Or Change’ where her tour de force performance in the lead role as Caroline won her both the coveted Toronto Theatre Critics Award for Best Lead Performance in a Musical and the highly esteemed Dora Mavor Moore Award (the ‘Dora’) for Outstanding Performance in a Leading Role – Musical Theatre.
Jully Black’s appearance is generously sponsored by Yannick and Shantelle Bisson.

JULLY BLACK
Dr. Mark Masri is a Grammy and JUNO Award–nominated Canadian tenor, songwriter, and producer whose genre-blending style spans classical, theatrical pop, soul, and worship. Currently serving as Dean of Music at Canada Christian College, he merges a passion for ministry with decades of experience as a global performer and recording artist. Originally studying to become a doctor, Mark felt an early calling to pursue music —a decision rooted in the belief that “music is kind of like medicine; it heals the body and soothes the soul.” This guiding philosophy is evident in the haunting lyrics and moving melodies that have become his artistic signature. Mark’s career has taken him to stages around the world, from performances with the Vivaldi Orchestra in Moscow to appearances on David Foster’s Hitman Returns television special. In 2022, he joined the internationally celebrated vocal group The Tenors, expanding his influence in both sacred and mainstream music circles. Whether headlining a North American tour or releasing award-winning albums, Mark’s dynamic tenor and theatrical pop sensibility have captivated global audiences. His discography includes critically acclaimed albums such as La Voce, which features songs in six languages and collaborations with Jon Secada and Jim Brickman, and Intimo, a tribute to classic Italian love songs. Duets with Olivia Newton-John and Delta Goodrem have become fan favourites across adult contemporary radio. Mark also co-hosts 100 Huntley Street, Canada’s longest-running Christian talk show, using his platform to inspire audiences through faith, music, and storytelling. He holds an honorary doctorate in recognition of his lifelong contributions to music and ministry. Whether in concert, in the classroom, or on television, Dr. Masri opens hearts with a sensuous voice, authentic artistry, and unwavering commitment to the healing power of music.
Dr. Masri’s appearance is generously sponsored by Sahar Whelan, Director of Pharmacy, Concord Specialty Pharmacy.

DR. MARK MASRI
Sterling Jarvis is an award winning actor and singer who has recently returned from performing his principal role in the hit musical Book of Mormon on Broadway. His other theatre credits include The Lion King, We Will Rock You, Driving Miss Daisy and Caroline or Change for which he received a Dora Award for Best Actor in a Principle Role. His TV and Film appearances include The West Wing, The Sentinel, The Border, Covert Affairs, Aaliyah, Lost Girls, Suits,The Boys and most recently Avatar: The Final Frontier He has sung anthems for the Blue Jays, the Raptors and the Toronto Maple Leafs and can be heard on many tv and radio commercials as well as singing the themes for the popular kid’s shows Donkey Kong Country, Wild Kratts.
Sterling Jarvis’ appearance is generously sponsored by Jody and Steve Martin, Niche Bakers Corp.

STERLING JARVIS
Jeff Madden is an Oakville-based singer, actor, and educator. Most recently, Jeff starred as ‘Claude & Others’ in the Gander production of Come From Away. In the Canadian premiere Mirvish production of Come From Away, Jeff performed the role of ‘Kevin T & Others’ more than 700 times between 2018-2025. Previously, Jeff starred as ‘Frankie Valli’ in the in Canadian premiere of Jersey Boys, winning the coveted Dora Award for ‘Outstanding Performance in a Musical’. Jeff also performed that vocally grueling roll 700 times in Toronto and across Australia between 2008-2013. He has recently created a dynamic show with Adrian Marchuk, called How We Got To Jersey: A Tale Of Two Frankies, which has delighted audiences across Ontario, and will play Markham Flato Theatre Oct 17, and Capitol Theatre in Port Hope October 24-26. Jeff’s other favourite Toronto appearances include Rock of Ages, Forever Plaid, ‘Til Then, Echoes, and I Love You Because (Dora Nomination). Elsewhere, Jeff appeared at the prestigious Shaw Festival for eight consecutive seasons, playing roles in Wonderful Town, Tristan, Belle Moral, Happy End, Floyd Collins and many more. Jeff has appeared on TVsTerminal List, Murdoch Mysteries, Mayday, Accused and The Parker-Andersons, recorded Voice-Over work, created a series of Cabaret shows called “My Life In Song”, and recorded two CDs of Musical Theatre and Pop songs. Holding a Master of Education degree from U of T, Jeff teaches acting and singing privately and has been a part-time faculty member at Sheridan and Randolph Colleges for many years. Follow me @thatjeffmadden

JEFF MADDEN
Sarah Nairne is a Black, Canadian multi-disciplinary artist of Jamaican heritage. Born and raised in the
Waterloo Region but developed her vocal talents with the music of Yolanda Adams, Aretha Franklin,
Whitney Houston and Donny Hathaway, Sarah has a voice you’ll never forget. Sarah’s had the privilege
to share her work as a vocalist, actor, creative and more on multiple stages and spaces across Canada &
Australia. More widely recognized in the Canadian musical theatre industry Sarah has performed in the
multi-award winning Canadian Premiere of The Color Purple, Mirvish Productions Come From Away and
the 2022/23 Australian National Tour and most recently in Drayton Entertainment’s Beehive!: The 60s
Musical. You can catch Sarah in the upcoming All Canadian Cast of Mirvish Productions &Juliet at The
Royal Alexandra Theatre in December 2025. Sarah always approaches every performance with
connecting and drawing the audience into her imagination. Her care and love for music and theatre is
immense – it's made her who she is and cannot wait to share that at Theatre By The Bay! She’s thankful
to her family, friends, agents for their continued love and support! Follow Sarah on Instagram
@canvassarah

SARAH NAIRNE
Barbara Fulton: I’m is so happy to be involved in this evening’s performance with old pals in such a beautiful place. Seven years ago, the Canadian company of Come From Away began it’s run at the Royal Alex in Toronto. A few of those years are a blur thanks to the pandemic but we completed our final show on May 4th, 2025. What a glorious run we had. Other shows: A Little Night Music; Into The Woods; The Mikado; Our Town; An Emeny of the People; Pentecost; The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe; Fiddler on the Roof; The Sound of Music; Romeo and Juliet; The Taming of the Shrew; A Midsummer’s Night Dream; Hamlet; Twelfth Night; Uncle Vanya; The Miracle Worker; Elektra, all at the Stratford Festival. The Last Timbit at the Elgin Theatre Toronto. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Grand Theatre London. Sweet Delilah Swim Club, Drayton Festival. And many moons ago, ‘Grizabella’ in the original Canadian company of Cats, Elgin Theatre.

BARBARA FULTON
Kyle Brown is a Trinidadian-Canadian actor/singer. He studied Gospel/Improvisational Music & Biblical Studies at Gateway College in St. Louis, MO – touring the United States with the college choir & ensemble. Returning home, he studied Audio Engineering at Recording Arts Canada, but soon found himself on theatre stages where he continues to study and to work in Canadian theatre. Credits include: Come From Away (Mirvish/NAC/Gander/Australian Tour); Jesus Christ Superstar, The Frogs (TIFT);Tyson’s Song (Pleiades Theatre – Dora Nomination); Stag & Doe (Thousand Islands Playhouse). Pleased to support Theatre By The Bay. @thekyleofkyles

KYLE BROWN
STEFFI DIDOMENICANTONIO. Steffi is a bilingual Dora Award nominated performer who has appeared on stages and screens for the last 20 years. Steffi played Ilse over 600 times in the 1st national tour ofSpring Awakening, was a Top 5 finalist on Season 4 of Canadian Idol and performed the role of Janice & Others in Come From Away over 1,300 times in Canada and on tour in the United States. She’s also the co-host of the online Mirvish talk show Check In From Away and has appeared in over 45 TV shows, movies and commercials including Chucky, Transplant,Frankie Drake, Star Trek, The Umbrella Academy, Crawford and Murdoch Mysteries. Follow her adventures on Instagram! @SteffiD5 SteffiD.ca

STEFFI DIDOMENICANTONIO
Adrian Marchuk has been creating and performing theatre across North America for over 20 years. He spent three years performing as Frankie Valli in the Toronto and Las Vegas companies of Jersey Boys, as well as other hit shows including The Light In The Piazza, Joseph and…Dreamcoat, Next To Normal, Grease!, Bat Boy, and two seasons at the Shaw Festival. He is the creator of the successful Broadway Biographies concert musical series: Any Dream Will Do: The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber, A Whole New World: The Musical Magic of Alan Menken, Over The Rainbow: The Harold Arlen Story, and The Sweetest Sounds: The Richard Rodgers Legacy. Adrian also teaches voice from his home studio in Toronto, and his students have performed at Stratford, Shaw, Mirvish, and Broadway.

ADRIAN MARCHUK
Mariah Campos grew up in Barrie, ON, where her love for the performing arts began at a young age and quickly blossomed into a lifelong passion. She went on to train at Sheridan College and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Musical Theatre Performance. Mariah has since built a vibrant career on stage and on screen. Selected theatre credits include: Rose in Titanique (Mirvish & The Segal Centre), Polly Baker in Crazy For You, Eva Perón in Evita, Sherrie Christian in Rock of Ages, and María Elena in The Buddy Holly Story (Drayton Entertainment). She’s also appeared in Peter’s Final Flight, Lil Red Robin Hood, and A Christmas Carol (Ross Petty Productions), was a Swing in The Music Man at the Stratford Festival and performed in the ensemble and understudied Sherrie in Rock of Ages (Stage West Calgary).On screen, her credits include Cruel Intentions (Amazon), Take Note (Peacock/Family Channel), and Ginny & Georgia (Netflix). Mariah is the proud recipient of the 2023 Terry Doyle Memorial Award (Drayton Entertainment) and the Jean A. Chalmers Training Award (Stratford Festival), recognizing both her talent and commitment to her craft. Coming up: Mariah will appear in & Juliet with Mirvish Productions this winter.
Mariah Campos’ appearance is generously sponsored by Ava Louise Murchison. Also, big thanks for Priscilla!

MARIAH CAMPOS
Graham Scott Fleming is a powerhouse performer with a voice as big as his heart—and a résumé to match. He made his Broadway debut in the acclaimed revival of Miss Saigon, performing live at the Tony Awards and celebrating a nomination for Best Revival. Back home in Canada, Graham stepped into the iconic heels of Kinky Boots, leading the Mirvish Productions cast and earning a Dora Award nomination for Best Male Actor in a Musical. The role took him across the U.S., where he brought Charlie’s story—and his own signature flair—to audiences nationwide. On screen, Graham starred in the Hallmark holiday favorite Love You Like Christmas, not only acting but also penning the title track and several other songs featured in the film. As a singer-songwriter, Graham found his voice in country music. His heartfelt single “Better Man” broke into the Top 40 at Canadian country radio, landing him a record deal and launching a solo career that continues to resonate across the map. From province to province, state to state, and stage to stage, Graham brings real stories, raw talent, and undeniable charm to every performance—and he’s thrilled to be sharing the stage with you today.

GRAHAM SCOTT FLEMING
Brigit O’Regan is known for her high-energy performances and ability to switch effortlessly between genres and styles (Top40, HipHop, Rock, Bollywood, Soca and more)! In recent years, she has shared the stage with all-stars like Burna Boy, Babuu Maan, Brett Kissler, Shawn Hook, The Tenors, the late S.P. Balasubramaniam and WWE champion, Shinsuke Nakamura. Online, she is also known by over 153k YouTube subscribers and 20 million viewers as “Violin Girl” for her covers of video game and film music. She is also known in Punjab, India as “Goriye Dancer” where she recently went viral for bhangra dancing on the Scotiabank Arena stage to a sold-out show.

BRIGIT O’REGAN
Alyssa Bartholomew is a Toronto-based soprano praised for her “strong acting and vocal presence” (Opera Canada). Growing up in Barrie, she was immersed in the local arts scene, performing with organizations such as Theatre by the Bay, the Canadian Musicians Co-op, and the Moving Art Centre. In 2019, she was recognized with the Most Promising Youth Award at the Barrie Arts Awards. Select credits include Casilda in The Gondoliers (Toronto Operetta Theatre), Le Feu in L’enfant et les Sortilèges (The Royal Conservatory), u/s The Queen of the Night in The Magic Flute (Koerner Hall), and Gretel in Hansel and Gretel (UWO Opera). Alyssa earned her Bachelor of Music at Western University and is currently pursuing an Artist Diploma at the Glenn Gould School of The Royal Conservatory. She is thrilled to be back and performing in this concert. More information at www.alyssabartholomew.com.

ALYSSA BARTHOLOMEW
David has trained since the age of 15 in Opera and classical vocal, and is an accomplished director, producer, singer, actor, writer and recording artist. He is honoured and blessed to have performed across North America and internationally for the last 28 years in stage, film and Television.
Favourite Credits include: Mirvish Toronto: And Juliet (Up coming) Come from Away, Les Miserables, Kinky Boots. Stratford: 42nd St./Pirates of Penzance. Shrek the Musical, Neil Simon’s Chapter 2, Come from Away Australian National Tour, Guys and Dolls , Kiss of the Spiderwoman , Fiddler on the Roof,Blood Brothers, Broadway Concert Series: (Les Miserables,Phantom of the Opera, Sweeney Todd.) Of Mice and Men, Noises Off , Death of a Salesman , The Odd Couple, Into the Woods, Little Shop of Horrors , City of Angels, Cabaret, Jesus Christ Superstar in Concert. A Funny thing Happened on the way to the Forum, Cabaret, Hercules the Musical, Toy Story the musical, Amadeus, A Little night Music, Company, Too Many Cooks.
David has also written and performed his own cabaret series across Canada, both on his own and with the lovely Cailin Stadnyk. Much love to family and friends, who have supported in throughout the years.

DAVID SILVESTRI
Silvestri
Moving Art
Zoe Sheviak is delighted to perform at this year’s Stars Come Out Fundraiser! With fifteen years in local performing arts communities, Zoe has been in numerous theatre productions, including standout roles as Rona Lisa Peretti in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Jovi in Moving Arts original production Believe, and Elle Woods in Legally Blonde.
In her high school years, Zoe studied in the Vocal Program at the Royal Conservatory of Music’s Phil and Eli Taylor Performance Academy for Young Artists (2023–2024), where she participated in concerts and workshops throughout the year. Currently, she is training under Edwina Douglas, working toward her ARCT in Voice with the Royal Conservatory
Zoe is also a singer/songwriter. She is currently in the process of writing and learning how to record and produce her own music.
In addition to performing and songwriting, Zoe shares her passion for the arts as an educator, teaching private vocal and piano lessons, as well as theatre and drama classes, at Moving Art Centre for Performing Arts. She feels so blessed to take part in inspiring the next generation and is excited to share her love for the arts with all of you!

ZOE
SHEVIAK
Anjelique Croteau is a mezzo-soprano from Barrie, Ontario, and is currently in her Master’s of Music in Voice Performance at Western University, under the tutelage of Sophie Roland and Simone Luti. Most recently, Anjelique has had the privilege of making her role debut as Bizet’s Carmen with the Kindred Symphony Orchestra in Richmond Hill. She is an Emerging Artist with Arcady Ensemble in Brantford, Ontario and has previously enjoyed roles such as Third Lady in Mozart’s Die Zauberflüte, Naomi in Ron Beckett’s Ruth, and Mistress Quickly in Verdi’s Falstaff. Come January, Anjelique will also be performing the role of Suzy in City Workers in Love, directed by Jessica Derventzis. In addition to performing opera, she is a choral scholar at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, Ontario, and conductor of research regarding the impact of feminism on the evolution of the operatic canon. Anjelique is thrilled to come home to perform at Stars Come Out, making this a very full-circle moment for her. Storytelling is one of her greatest passions, whether it be under the heat of the lights or ink of a pen, Anjelique truly enjoys sinking her teeth into each character’s story splayed before her.

ANJELIQUE
CROTEAU
Tia Gilchrist has been sharing her love of music and performing for more than 15 years. She’s passionate about connecting with people through song and bringing stories to life on stage. Alongside her work with Moving Art and The Arts House, Tia continues to grow as an artist while inspiring others with her voice and joy for the arts.

TIA
GILCHRIST
Amariah Faulkner is an actress, dancer, and singer from Barrie, Ontario. She vividly remembers watching Stars Come Out as a child and feeling inspired by the local talent who returned to share their skills with the community. She takes pride in her curiosity, silliness, and versatility.
Her work spans television, film, voiceover, theatre, and motion capture. Highlights include voicing Katerina Kittykat in Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, voice and motion capture credits in Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate, and appearances with Mirvish, Musical Stage Company, and Neptune Theatre. Most recently, she can be heard in BYU’s animated series Saving Me and seen in Twisted Metal (Paramount).
A graduate of Sheridan College, Amariah is deeply grateful to her mentors both inside and outside of school, and to her family for their continued support.

AMARIAH
FAULKNER
Hi! I’m Meghan Stirpe, and I’m so excited to be performing here alongside my talented friends. I grew up in the best creative space imaginable over at Barrie’s Moving Art Centre, where they showed me how much joy the arts can bring to myself and others. Through playing characters such as Marcy in “Spelling Bee” and Paulette in “Legally Blonde,” I found that the stage was, funny enough, where I felt most myself. I’m currently studying Musical Theatre at St. Lawrence College, where I continue to further my knowledge of the performing arts. I believe that truly nothing compares to live theatre, so I thank you for coming out today to support the arts!

MEGHAN
STIRPE
Kelsie Myers: Kelsie is so excited to be apart of the Stars Come Out fundraiser this year. She is currently a student at Queens University in Kingston. She is entering her third year of study in a Bachelor of Music studying Classical Voice. She is entering her second season of the Isabel Voices based in Kingston. She has previously performed in many shows in Barrie including The Little Mermaid (Ursula), Spelling Bee (Olive), Matilda (Miss Honey), and many more. In her free time she plays competitive soccer and loves to spend time with her family and friends.

KELSIE
MYERS
Tori Robertson is a Canadian singer, dancer, actress and educator born and raised in Barrie, Ontario. She is elated to be back at the Mady and performing again in The Stars Come Out! A recent graduate of Sheridan College, you can look out for her in an upcoming new series on Netflix/Family Channel. Thank you to The Characters and M Models and big love to her endlessly supportive family & friends. Enjoy the show! @torirobertson_

TORI
ROBERTSON
Creative Team
Glenn Coulson is the Managing Producer of Theatre by the Bay, bringing decades of experience in the arts, cultural leadership, and fundraising to the role. A long-time champion of the company, Glenn has been deeply involved in its growth and evolution over the years—as a creative collaborator, development strategist, and advocate for accessible, high-quality theatre in Barrie and Central Ontario. His career spans producing, fundraising, and building sustainable models for nonprofit arts organizations across Canada. With a passion for storytelling and community impact, Glenn leads Theatre by the Bay’s artistic and operational vision, working to ensure the company thrives artistically and financially while remaining rooted in its mission to serve and inspire its community

GLENN COULSON
Music-Directing is fun! Just ask Edwina Douglas! For years, Edwina has loved performing and inspiring others to do the same…at the highest level. With ARCT’s in both teaching & performance, Edwina was the founder of the show choir Bravado! and followed it up as band leader, keyboardist & lead singer in the high-energy vocal group, “Marmalade”. Beside her professional theatre music-direction, her impact on community theatre and specifically those on the upward path, has been truly appreciated by those under her tutelage, and certainly the audiences alike. Edwina’s students have consistently won major awards at their local festivals and she has successfully prepared numerous students for their University Vocal Performance Auditions. Many of her students have continued on to successful professional performance careers, including some in tonights lineup for Stars Come Out and others whose careers are just starting to take shape. Cheer them on!!

EDWINA DOUGLAS
Larissa Mair co-founded Theatre By The Bay in 2001 with Nick Baillie. She wanted to bring high-quality, professional, and affordable theatre to Barrie. Fast forward 24 years, she is back and excited to be helping put together the Stars Come Out Show, which has become a beloved tradition in the Barrie community.
Larissa works as a Casting Director in the film and television industry. With over 25 years in the business, her resume includes films, television series, commercials, audiobooks, animation, and of course, theater. She’s built her career on being committed to inclusion and diversity in the casting process, and has loved discovering many fresh faces in the industry who have launched to great success.
She feels humbled to have recently won Best Achievement In Casting Fiction for her work on Late Bloomer (Crave) at the 2025 Canadian Screen Awards. Some of her more recent resume includes, BET (Netflix), Mistletoe Murders (Hallmark), The Office Movers (Bell Media), Popularity Papers (Nickelodeon), Run The Burbs (CBC), Wordsville (Sinking Ship), One More Time (CBC), Don’t Even (Crave/APTN), Old Enough! Canada (TVO/ Netflix), Dino Dex (Prime Video, Amazon Kids+, TVOkids, TFO, Knowledge Network), Paw Patrol (Nickelodeon) and upcoming features Nika & Madison (Game Theory) and Youngblood (Photon), and Little Lorraine (WANGO films) who are all featured in TIFF’s 2025 season!
Larissa would like to thank all the incredible volunteers for their dedication to Theatre By The Bay, and to the many sponsors of tonight’s event. Their generosity is unmatched and deeply appreciated. She is thankful for the performers being showcased tonight and cannot wait for their talents to inspire the community!

LARISSA MAIR
Jade Hesson is THRILLED to be back working with Theatre By The Bay! Former Young Company Alum (Aladdin and Jasmine’s Summer Adventure, Treasure Island, Much Ado About Nothing & Jacob Two-Two Meets The Hooded Fang), Jade’s passion for the arts has led her on many an adventure!
After graduating with honors in Stage and Screen from Queen’s University, Jade took to the seven seas working as a Cruise Director for Princess. From Alaska to Taiwan, and many trips through the Panama Canal, she had the pleasure of being paid to travel and entertain! After the pandemic and watching Poop Cruise… Jade transitioned to a life on land and began her pursuit in the Film and Television industry. Reuniting with her mentor, Larissa Mair (Theatre By The Bay co-founder), Jade has been very fortunate to now work as a Casting Associate under Larissa’s direction for the past 5 years. The experience has been a full-circle and she is very thankful for the opportunity to help cast a plethera of Canadian content. This year they even brought home a win from the Canadian Screen Awards for their acheivment in casting fiction on the series Late Bloomer (Crave).
Jade is excited for audiences to witness tonight’s very special performances and get jazzed for Theatre By The Bay’s coming seasons! Jade would like to thank Larissa for her endless passion for the community in Barrie; Larissa’s energy, sense of humour, and fearlessness motivate and inspire many young artists to give back and be thankful to the communities that built them. Enjoy the show!

JADE HESSON
Fundraising Opportunities
Live Auction:
Features exclusive experience-based packages curated for our most enthusiastic supporters. Full details will be revealed during the event.
Silent Auction:
A variety of items and packages will be available for bidding throughout the evening, including unique arts, culture, and lifestyle offerings.
Paddle Raise Appeal:
Guests will have the opportunity to raise their numbered paddles and contribute directly to Theatre by the Bay’s artistic and educational initiatives.
Why It Matters
All funds raised at Stars Come Out 2025 will support:
• New work development and commissions
• Youth mentorship and artist training
• Community access and inclusion programs
• The 2026 25th Anniversary Season
• Ongoing artistic excellence and operational resilience
Sponsorship Opportunities
Now accepting sponsor partnerships for:
• Presenting Sponsor
• Performer Sponsor
• VIP Reception Sponsor
• Paddle Raise Sponsor
• In-Kind and Auction Partners
Custom packages available with brand alignment, audience reach, and recognition opportunities.
Contact:
Glenn Coulson – glenn@theatrebythebay.com | 705.795.3022
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
Twenty Years By The Bay
Marking Theatre by the Bay’s 20th season, Twenty Years by the Bay is a documentary film that chronicles the company’s history, evolution, and vision for the future. Featuring over 20 interviews from company artists, staff members, and community members. A touching story about the challenges, triumphs, and heartbreaks that can come with making theatre in regional communities.

A groundbreaking theatre education series, streaming on-demand through our website.
Produced by Theatre by the Bay.
