Lately, I've become a feirce nationalist. Something about the Olympics resonated with me on a deep level. Not the fact that we were winning (We did kick some serious ass mind you), but the fact that is was all happening here in Canada... we were watching our country make history, and that's just exciting.
Ever since then, I realized just how much I do love this country. I remember that for as long as I've been acting people have said things like "Oh, so are you going to move to LA?" or "So when will we see you in New York?" and my answer has always been the same. Why? Why do I want to leave the country that has given me so much and allowed me to do as much as I have to this point.
Unfortunately, Canada is rife with competition, but I've always been a fan with doing things in atypical ways. Instead of going out for shows, I've created my own, and have now directed three fabulous musicals, and will have two more under my belt by the time May rolls around. The thing I really enjoy about it, is the undeniable joy I get to experience doing them. They may not have the budget, or the talent pool of bigger productions, but my shows have heart, and talent that is not dependant on the size of the city. My shows have been (without sounding arrogant mind you) Excellent, and if you haven't got a chance to see them, then you have truly missed something unique and special.
Doing these things, I've learnt that it's best to work with what you've got. I have access to hilarious people who are driven to do better and I get the joy of working with them and watching them grow as creative dynamos.
I am proud of the work I've done here, and I see no reason why I need to go anywhere else to find "My calling" as an actor. I refuse to believe that my destiny is waiting for me off in the States somewhere, when what I'm doing now, here, in this city, is unique and important. And above all else, it's fun.
"If your ship doesn't come in, swim out to it."
