Explore our 2024 Artists and meet the first of our newly announced 2025 lineup! We’re excited to showcase a diverse mix of talent, each bringing something special to our stage. More artists will be added soon. Stay tuned for new profiles that highlight their unique voices and creative contributions to our vibrant community.
Brian was born in 1950 on the Okanagan Indian Reserve near Vernon, BC. After completing grade eight, he found work in the oil fields and in construction, and eventually retired as a bricklayer. At the age of fifty, without any formal training, he began to write and fifteen years later, he completed his first novel, All the Quiet Places. His bestselling debut won the 2022 Indigenous Voices Award, was a finalist for the Governor General’s Award and the Amazon Canada First Novel Award, and was longlisted for the Scotiabank Giller Prize and CBC’s Canada Reads. He was also a member of the jury for the 2023 Scotia Bank Giller prize. Brian and his wife live in West Kelowna where he enjoys time with his three grandchildren and is currently working on his third book.
Brian was born in 1950 on the Okanagan Indian Reserve near Vernon, BC. After completing grade eight, he found work in the oil fields and in construction, and eventually retired as a bricklayer. At the age of fifty, without any formal training, he began to write and fifteen years later, he completed his first novel, All the Quiet Places. His bestselling debut won the 2022 Indigenous Voices Award, was a finalist for the Governor General’s Award and the Amazon Canada First Novel Award, and was longlisted for the Scotiabank Giller Prize and CBC’s Canada Reads. He was also a member of the jury for the 2023 Scotia Bank Giller prize. Brian and his wife live in West Kelowna where he enjoys time with his three grandchildren and is currently working on his third book.
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There is a pureness to Claire's voice that can silence a room. A moving songwriter and compelling guitarist, Claire combines smooth folk finger picking, jazz influenced progressions and a powerful yet vocal tender delivery. Her music delivers carefully crafted and vulnerable reckonings of self worth, escaping abuse, painful goodbyes, fragile family dynamics and ultimate hope for the future. Music publications around the world laud her lyricism, deft guitar playing and rich vocals. Claire Coupland brings a graceful contemporary feel to indie folk music.
There is a pureness to Claire's voice that can silence a room. A moving songwriter and compelling guitarist, Claire combines smooth folk finger picking, jazz influenced progressions and a powerful yet vocal tender delivery. Her music delivers carefully crafted and vulnerable reckonings of self worth, escaping abuse, painful goodbyes, fragile family dynamics and ultimate hope for the future. Music publications around the world laud her lyricism, deft guitar playing and rich vocals. Claire Coupland brings a graceful contemporary feel to indie folk music.
Danielle Krysa (Canada) has a BFA in Visual Arts, and a post-grad in graphic design. She is the writer behind the contemporary art site, (est.2009), and has curated art shows all over North America. Danielle is also an artist herself, and her mixed media collage work is held in private collections worldwide. She is the author of several art books, including “Creative Block”, “Your Inner Critic Is A Big Jerk”, “A Big Important Art Book - Now with Women”, and two children’s books; “How To Spot An Artist” and “Art and Joy”. Danielle has had the great pleasure of speaking at TEDx, PIXAR, Creative Mornings, and was interviewed in series of video segments on Oprah.com about breaking through creative blocks and self-doubt.
Danielle Krysa (Canada) has a BFA in Visual Arts, and a post-grad in graphic design. She is the writer behind the contemporary art site, (est.2009), and has curated art shows all over North America. Danielle is also an artist herself, and her mixed media collage work is held in private collections worldwide. She is the author of several art books, including “Creative Block”, “Your Inner Critic Is A Big Jerk”, “A Big Important Art Book - Now with Women”, and two children’s books; “How To Spot An Artist” and “Art and Joy”. Danielle has had the great pleasure of speaking at TEDx, PIXAR, Creative Mornings, and was interviewed in series of video segments on Oprah.com about breaking through creative blocks and self-doubt.
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Georgia Goerz is a Fine Arts student studying at the University of British Columbia in the beautiful Okanagan. Her work often takes an abstract twist, with pops of colour intertwined into a realistic setting. She has maintained a lifelong passion for art and has focused on creating her signature style and developing her skills in school in the past few years.
Georgia Goerz is a Fine Arts student studying at the University of British Columbia in the beautiful Okanagan. Her work often takes an abstract twist, with pops of colour intertwined into a realistic setting. She has maintained a lifelong passion for art and has focused on creating her signature style and developing her skills in school in the past few years.
Author, Isobel Rondeau was born and raised in Edmonton Alberta and eventually settled in northern Alberta where she and her husband raised their two children. Currently residing in beautiful British Columbia, Isobel finds peace and tranquility while writing close to nature. Fiction stories about everyday people are what she enjoys writing about. Isobel also writes under the pen name Belle Rondeau.
NOVELS:
“Wings Of An Angel”
The life after residential school is not an easy one. Follow Mark Whitestone as his life unfolds before your eyes, laugh at his stories, cry at his heartbreak, love who he is and watch as his wings open.
“Absence Of Breath”
Walk with Sahtu as he meets various people in the afterlife and why they are important to him and his future self.
“Ava’s Curse”
Travel the country as young witch, Ava, and her friends try to break the curse that follows her family from generation to generation. Along the way you meet several characters who help or hinder their progress, in the end her magic must prevail. Book one.
Author, Isobel Rondeau was born and raised in Edmonton Alberta and eventually settled in northern Alberta where she and her husband raised their two children. Currently residing in beautiful British Columbia, Isobel finds peace and tranquility while writing close to nature. Fiction stories about everyday people are what she enjoys writing about. Isobel also writes under the pen name Belle Rondeau.
NOVELS:
“Wings Of An Angel”
The life after residential school is not an easy one. Follow Mark Whitestone as his life unfolds before your eyes, laugh at his stories, cry at his heartbreak, love who he is and watch as his wings open.
“Absence Of Breath”
Walk with Sahtu as he meets various people in the afterlife and why they are important to him and his future self.
“Ava’s Curse”
Travel the country as young witch, Ava, and her friends try to break the curse that follows her family from generation to generation. Along the way you meet several characters who help or hinder their progress, in the end her magic must prevail. Book one.
Jack (he, him, his) is an award-winning theatre maker whose work and practice have taken him across Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, and around the world. Projects have ranged from contemporary devising, multi-disciplinary, cross-cultural, and multi-lingual experiences, trans-sensory and creative access projects, new works & texts, contemporary approaches to English and world classics in theatre, and from found spaces to main stages.
Jack (he, him, his) is an award-winning theatre maker whose work and practice have taken him across Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, and around the world. Projects have ranged from contemporary devising, multi-disciplinary, cross-cultural, and multi-lingual experiences, trans-sensory and creative access projects, new works & texts, contemporary approaches to English and world classics in theatre, and from found spaces to main stages.
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Krystal Withakay (spaxwawlm/ Northern Lights) is of the syilx nation and is from Westbank, BC. She is a devoted syilx artist and knowledge keeper. With over 20 years experience, Krystal continues her advocacy within syilx language and culture as a lifelong learner. Krystal's artistic abilities and wealth of knowledge are a reflection of syilx mentorship and continued support within her traditional territory.
Krystal Withakay (spaxwawlm/ Northern Lights) is of the syilx nation and is from Westbank, BC. She is a devoted syilx artist and knowledge keeper. With over 20 years experience, Krystal continues her advocacy within syilx language and culture as a lifelong learner. Krystal's artistic abilities and wealth of knowledge are a reflection of syilx mentorship and continued support within her traditional territory.
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Michael V. Smith
works across many creative genres, as a writer, filmmaker and performer. Smith is also a full professor at UBCO in Kelowna, where he teaches Creative Writing. As an artist who relies heavily on improv, Smith is known for his quick wit, bizarre costume choices, and his delicious invitations to play with the audience.
Michael V. Smith
works across many creative genres, as a writer, filmmaker and performer. Smith is also a full professor at UBCO in Kelowna, where he teaches Creative Writing. As an artist who relies heavily on improv, Smith is known for his quick wit, bizarre costume choices, and his delicious invitations to play with the audience.
Yanti Sharples is a lifelong learner with a powerful love for life. Her lifelong aspiration has been to build strength, joy and community through the shared human experience of music. Through writing, singing, playing instruments and teaching Yanti shares her unique frequency with everyone. Yanti believes that the vibrations we emit from our bodies are the best medicine for what ails us. She aims to keep encouraging positive change in her environment by leading by example, as she is driven to make a difference in the world. Yanti plays the ukulele, cello and shaker. She is a seasoned vocalist and has fronted numerous bands in various genres including jazz, and blues. Yanti volunteers extensively in and around the small unincorporated village of Naramata in British Columbia that she is fortunate enough to call home.
Yanti Sharples is a lifelong learner with a powerful love for life. Her lifelong aspiration has been to build strength, joy and community through the shared human experience of music. Through writing, singing, playing instruments and teaching Yanti shares her unique frequency with everyone. Yanti believes that the vibrations we emit from our bodies are the best medicine for what ails us. She aims to keep encouraging positive change in her environment by leading by example, as she is driven to make a difference in the world. Yanti plays the ukulele, cello and shaker. She is a seasoned vocalist and has fronted numerous bands in various genres including jazz, and blues. Yanti volunteers extensively in and around the small unincorporated village of Naramata in British Columbia that she is fortunate enough to call home.
Over the years Al has been on stage with Penticton Chamber Theatre, Summerland Singers and Players and Many Hats Theatre Co. He has played a variety of roles, mostly comedic but some more serious. He has enjoyed playing an angel in “Bingo Wings” with Many Hats and,
more recently, the nasty Max Vilegroove in the “Murder on the Rails – Jamboree Express” show. He is very excited to be playing in the Theatre Trails program this year as Steve in “Crosswalk” by John Arendt. Thanks to everyone in our group and enjoy the show.
Over the years Al has been on stage with Penticton Chamber Theatre, Summerland Singers and Players and Many Hats Theatre Co. He has played a variety of roles, mostly comedic but some more serious. He has enjoyed playing an angel in “Bingo Wings” with Many Hats and,
more recently, the nasty Max Vilegroove in the “Murder on the Rails – Jamboree Express” show. He is very excited to be playing in the Theatre Trails program this year as Steve in “Crosswalk” by John Arendt. Thanks to everyone in our group and enjoy the show.
Aleena Proteau is a 17 year old singer/ actress from the beautiful city of Penticton and has been living there all her life. She started acting at a young age but found deeper love for it going through highschool. Her talents have been awarded for two years in a row, with the top senior Artist Award in Pen High. Taking any opportunity to get on stage, she was on Pen High’s improv team, been in annual plays (and wrote some as well,) and was in Pen High’s musicals for the past 3 years. The arts have truly been her heart and soul through highschool, but now that she's graduated, it’s a craft she wishes to dedicate her life to.
Aleena Proteau is a 17 year old singer/ actress from the beautiful city of Penticton and has been living there all her life. She started acting at a young age but found deeper love for it going through highschool. Her talents have been awarded for two years in a row, with the top senior Artist Award in Pen High. Taking any opportunity to get on stage, she was on Pen High’s improv team, been in annual plays (and wrote some as well,) and was in Pen High’s musicals for the past 3 years. The arts have truly been her heart and soul through highschool, but now that she's graduated, it’s a craft she wishes to dedicate her life to.
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As a teenager Alisa loved performing in many musical theatre productions alongside her mother. After an 18 year hiatus, Alisa was delighted to perform in this year's Murder on the Rails as Grannia. In her free time Alisa enjoys taking care of her puppy, volunteering for theatre and live music events, and growing vegetables.
As a teenager Alisa loved performing in many musical theatre productions alongside her mother. After an 18 year hiatus, Alisa was delighted to perform in this year's Murder on the Rails as Grannia. In her free time Alisa enjoys taking care of her puppy, volunteering for theatre and live music events, and growing vegetables.
Andre "the Man from Eldorado" Sutherland Begin is an indigenous member (Moose Cree) of the Storytellers of Canada, recites at museums, libraries, theatres, retirement homes, galleries, festivals and is no stranger to the Ryga Arts Festival.
Andre "the Man from Eldorado" Sutherland Begin is an indigenous member (Moose Cree) of the Storytellers of Canada, recites at museums, libraries, theatres, retirement homes, galleries, festivals and is no stranger to the Ryga Arts Festival.
Angela Douglas is a Canadian author who lives in the Okanagan with her husband and kids. Her debut thriller, Every Fall, will be published by Rising Action Publishing Collective in January 2025. When she isn’t working or hanging out with her family, she hides in her studio with her bulldog, Frankie, writing her next book. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Crime Writers of Canada and is the VP of Communications of Sisters in Crime—Canada West.
Angela Douglas is a Canadian author who lives in the Okanagan with her husband and kids. Her debut thriller, Every Fall, will be published by Rising Action Publishing Collective in January 2025. When she isn’t working or hanging out with her family, she hides in her studio with her bulldog, Frankie, writing her next book. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Crime Writers of Canada and is the VP of Communications of Sisters in Crime—Canada West.
A part of the 2024 Fundraiser!
A part of the 2024 Fundraiser!
Betty-Ann has been involved with community theatre in acting, writing and producing for
over forty years, mostly for Summerland Singers and Players. She has written for
Theatre Trail and this is the third Trail play she has directed. She chose “Heard
Mentality” because it is such an enjoyable play with a sensitive underlying theme.
Betty-Ann has been involved with community theatre in acting, writing and producing for
over forty years, mostly for Summerland Singers and Players. She has written for
Theatre Trail and this is the third Trail play she has directed. She chose “Heard
Mentality” because it is such an enjoyable play with a sensitive underlying theme.
Brakeman Jack is a local writer of stories, plays and songs. His musical “Kettle Valley Memories” was staged in both Penticton and Peachland in 2003 and he contributed a short story to “An Okanagan Tapestry: Stories, Poems and Images by Okanagan Authors and Artists”. Jack is best known as the songwriter and storyteller for The Kettle Valley Brakemen.Brakeman Jack lives in idyllic Naramata.
Brakeman Jack is a local writer of stories, plays and songs. His musical “Kettle Valley Memories” was staged in both Penticton and Peachland in 2003 and he contributed a short story to “An Okanagan Tapestry: Stories, Poems and Images by Okanagan Authors and Artists”. Jack is best known as the songwriter and storyteller for The Kettle Valley Brakemen.Brakeman Jack lives in idyllic Naramata.
Bryan has "trod the boards" of community theatre from the Prairies to BC, for over 50 years, both onstage, of stage and backstage. He has performed in productions of comedy, drama, musicals and music reviews and variety shows. He has built sets, acted in, produced, and directed both theatre and radio plays, with recent productions of the Summerland Singers & Players, both on stage and "on the rails,” with the Kettle Valley Railroad. Most recently Bryan appeared in Trista Bassets production of "Covid The Musical" and is now pleased to be returning to play a role in The Ryga Festival's collaboration with the SS&P Bead Trails presentation of "Robert and Sam.”
Bryan has "trod the boards" of community theatre from the Prairies to BC, for over 50 years, both onstage, of stage and backstage. He has performed in productions of comedy, drama, musicals and music reviews and variety shows. He has built sets, acted in, produced, and directed both theatre and radio plays, with recent productions of the Summerland Singers & Players, both on stage and "on the rails,” with the Kettle Valley Railroad. Most recently Bryan appeared in Trista Bassets production of "Covid The Musical" and is now pleased to be returning to play a role in The Ryga Festival's collaboration with the SS&P Bead Trails presentation of "Robert and Sam.”
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Opening Night Artist
Opening Night Artist
A part of the 2024 Fundraiser!
A part of the 2024 Fundraiser!
Chantal is excited to perform for the first time with Theatre Trails at the Ryga Arts festival. She has an extensive background in theatre, starting with earning a theatre degree At Canterbury High School for the Performing Arts. She continued her training in Theatre, earning a BA in
Theatre at the University of Ottawa. Since then, she’s acted, produced, and directed in many plays in Ottawa, Vancouver and the Okanagan. Chantal thanks her director Jamie Doll, the writer of GPS, Karla Henning, and Trista for all their hard work and collaboration.
Chantal is excited to perform for the first time with Theatre Trails at the Ryga Arts festival. She has an extensive background in theatre, starting with earning a theatre degree At Canterbury High School for the Performing Arts. She continued her training in Theatre, earning a BA in
Theatre at the University of Ottawa. Since then, she’s acted, produced, and directed in many plays in Ottawa, Vancouver and the Okanagan. Chantal thanks her director Jamie Doll, the writer of GPS, Karla Henning, and Trista for all their hard work and collaboration.
This is Cheryl’s first time participating in Theatre Trail, and is very thankful to Betty-Ann for casting her in this cute and quirky little play. She finds it very humbling to be playing alongside of Peg and Dara, two very accomplished actors. You may have seen Cheryl in this summer’s Murder on the Rails, or as an extra in last years production…though in both cases quite unrecognizable to her true self! She has also performed in a couple previous Many Hats productions as well as some of the old Chamber Theatre Company’s one-act plays. Happy Trails!!!
This is Cheryl’s first time participating in Theatre Trail, and is very thankful to Betty-Ann for casting her in this cute and quirky little play. She finds it very humbling to be playing alongside of Peg and Dara, two very accomplished actors. You may have seen Cheryl in this summer’s Murder on the Rails, or as an extra in last years production…though in both cases quite unrecognizable to her true self! She has also performed in a couple previous Many Hats productions as well as some of the old Chamber Theatre Company’s one-act plays. Happy Trails!!!
Cole R. W. MacPhee is a (currently) 17 year old non-binary aspiring poet and novelist, with a passion for philosophy, writing, and life, among other things. They have been fascinated by the nature of life and reality all their life, and love to search for new ways to connect with life, nature, and the universe. Their partner (and the indefinite subject of their affection) remains their muse and the inspiration for much of their writings and aspirations in life. “Quite perplexingly, people are so easily polarized— it is so readily forgotten that if you know how to hate, you know how to love. To know one is to know the other; to choose to hate when one can love just so easily is the folly of men.
Cole R. W. MacPhee is a (currently) 17 year old non-binary aspiring poet and novelist, with a passion for philosophy, writing, and life, among other things. They have been fascinated by the nature of life and reality all their life, and love to search for new ways to connect with life, nature, and the universe. Their partner (and the indefinite subject of their affection) remains their muse and the inspiration for much of their writings and aspirations in life. “Quite perplexingly, people are so easily polarized— it is so readily forgotten that if you know how to hate, you know how to love. To know one is to know the other; to choose to hate when one can love just so easily is the folly of men.
Dara has been involved in the theatre arts for over 50 years as an actor, director, stage manager, choreographer and playwright. She is new to Summerland and has recently joined the Summerland Singers and Players, where she enjoyed participating in, “Murder on the Rails” at the KVR in July. Dara is excited to perform in this year’s, “Theatre Trail.”
Dara has been involved in the theatre arts for over 50 years as an actor, director, stage manager, choreographer and playwright. She is new to Summerland and has recently joined the Summerland Singers and Players, where she enjoyed participating in, “Murder on the Rails” at the KVR in July. Dara is excited to perform in this year’s, “Theatre Trail.”
Dawn dabbles in playwriting, directs a successful murder mystery with Summerland Singers and Players on the KVR every year, and has enjoyed working with the Ryga Arts Festival, Cat’s Paw Productions, Tempest Theatre, and Showtime! Community Theatre. Dawn is eternally grateful to her theatre family, and her husband and son for their support. She feels blessed to have been in two plays written by her sister and is looking forward to more!
Dawn dabbles in playwriting, directs a successful murder mystery with Summerland Singers and Players on the KVR every year, and has enjoyed working with the Ryga Arts Festival, Cat’s Paw Productions, Tempest Theatre, and Showtime! Community Theatre. Dawn is eternally grateful to her theatre family, and her husband and son for their support. She feels blessed to have been in two plays written by her sister and is looking forward to more!
Echo is a 17 year old triple threat playwright. Tidepool is his first play, but it certainly won’t be his last. Echo has an incredible passion for the arts and is so grateful to be a part of the Ryga Fest! He is entering his grade 12 year at Penticton Secondary, and is a future student of The American Music and Dramatics Academy (AMDA) in New York City, starting fall 2025. Stay tuned for him in Pen High’s next musical, whatever it may be!
Echo is a 17 year old triple threat playwright. Tidepool is his first play, but it certainly won’t be his last. Echo has an incredible passion for the arts and is so grateful to be a part of the Ryga Fest! He is entering his grade 12 year at Penticton Secondary, and is a future student of The American Music and Dramatics Academy (AMDA) in New York City, starting fall 2025. Stay tuned for him in Pen High’s next musical, whatever it may be!
I’ve been on stage one way or the other since I was four years old and it's magic still enthralls me. The levels of intolerance in today's world are sometimes overwhelming. I hope this simple story that John Arendt has brought us will, in some small way, bring a measure of comfort.
I’ve been on stage one way or the other since I was four years old and it's magic still enthralls me. The levels of intolerance in today's world are sometimes overwhelming. I hope this simple story that John Arendt has brought us will, in some small way, bring a measure of comfort.
Emilia grew up in Armstrong, BC. She has worked as an essayist, storyteller and documentary producer for CBC Radio and is the co-artistic director of The Chop Theatre, with over 25 playwriting credits to her name. She is the creator of the popular blog and radio show that became an audiobook, Trying to Be Good: The Healing Powers of Lying, Cheating, Stealing, and Drugs (Author’s Republic, 2017). After living an urban life for many years, Symington-Fedy and her family are now enjoying life in the Shuswap, on their
rural property near a lake.
Emilia grew up in Armstrong, BC. She has worked as an essayist, storyteller and documentary producer for CBC Radio and is the co-artistic director of The Chop Theatre, with over 25 playwriting credits to her name. She is the creator of the popular blog and radio show that became an audiobook, Trying to Be Good: The Healing Powers of Lying, Cheating, Stealing, and Drugs (Author’s Republic, 2017). After living an urban life for many years, Symington-Fedy and her family are now enjoying life in the Shuswap, on their
rural property near a lake.
Erick Thompson is a communications professional and filmmaker. He is communications supervisor with the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS). Erick is also the information section chief in the RD05 Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). He joined the EOC in 2018 during region-wide flooding and wildfires. Erick is an avid trail runner and recently produced and directed a short trail running film called Fifty. Erick has spent more than 20 years working as a television and radio broadcaster.
Erick Thompson is a communications professional and filmmaker. He is communications supervisor with the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS). Erick is also the information section chief in the RD05 Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). He joined the EOC in 2018 during region-wide flooding and wildfires. Erick is an avid trail runner and recently produced and directed a short trail running film called Fifty. Erick has spent more than 20 years working as a television and radio broadcaster.
Fereidoon started acting recently in Cat's Paw Productions' Rocky Horror Picture Show in 2022 and is an active member of Peach Gravy Improv. He is performing in Cat's Paw’s second show, Nevermore, and is co-star in the Theatre Trail play, "The Button."
Fereidoon started acting recently in Cat's Paw Productions' Rocky Horror Picture Show in 2022 and is an active member of Peach Gravy Improv. He is performing in Cat's Paw’s second show, Nevermore, and is co-star in the Theatre Trail play, "The Button."
Travis Andrews is a Kelowna-based poet turned musician. He got his start on stage with
Inspired Word Cafe in early 2020, quickly falling in love with it and became involved as a volunteer and
participated in many of their competitive poetry slams, eventually winning Slam Champion of 2021. He
has performed his poetry at Kelowna's Arts on the Avenue, Summerland's Ryga Fest and Penticton's
Ignite the Arts Festival, among many more. He then transitioned to music, wherein he creates original
pieces combining elements of theatre, classical, and hiphop to craft his signature bombastic style. His
current project is a three album fantasy-inspired concept piece which he has been releasing throughout
2024, quickly accumulating over 100,000 streams on Spotify. Keep an eye out for the release of the first
of the three albums in late 2024.
Travis Andrews is a Kelowna-based poet turned musician. He got his start on stage with
Inspired Word Cafe in early 2020, quickly falling in love with it and became involved as a volunteer and
participated in many of their competitive poetry slams, eventually winning Slam Champion of 2021. He
has performed his poetry at Kelowna's Arts on the Avenue, Summerland's Ryga Fest and Penticton's
Ignite the Arts Festival, among many more. He then transitioned to music, wherein he creates original
pieces combining elements of theatre, classical, and hiphop to craft his signature bombastic style. His
current project is a three album fantasy-inspired concept piece which he has been releasing throughout
2024, quickly accumulating over 100,000 streams on Spotify. Keep an eye out for the release of the first
of the three albums in late 2024.
Harold Rhenisch’s family first sank their fingers into the glacial soils of the Okanagan in 1929, when his grandparents took the Sternwheeler SS Sicamous up Okanagan Lake to Okanagan Mission and sharecropped for John Casorso. Come hear him speak about the terroir of the wines of Summerland, in their geological and social history, as he launches his new book of poems, The Salmon Shanties. This is the official launch party for a book that took Harold across the length and breadth of Cascadia, from Yellowstone through the vineyards of the Umpqua, up through the Willamette, Walla Walla, Columbia Gorge, Rattlesnake Hills and Waluke appellations. Harold will pair the wines of the lake bottoms and glacial rivers of Summerland with poems weaving in the rainforests of the coast, Okanagan salmon, the early history of Summerland, and his long experience with Okanagan orchards and vineyards. This is an event that places the Okanagan in its deep history and links it to wines you can taste on your tongue and hear in your ear all at once. If you love this land of water and sun in North America’s greatest watershed, Cascadia, you will love it even more after this celebration.
Harold Rhenisch is the Okanagan author of 34 books and the 3,000 posts of the fabled blog okanaganokanogan.com, which has been called the best online writing about the Okanagan. He wrote the orcharding history Out of the Interior, and won the George Ryga Prize for Social Responsibility in Literature for his feminist history The Wolves at Evelyn. He won two CBC poetry prizes and worked with the photographer Chris Harris to create the defining book of the grasslands of BC, Spirit in the Grass, and Motherstone, its volcanic history. In 1979, he made a trip to Sunnyside Washington, to bring home a truckload of some of the first vinifera grape vines in the Okanagan. Harold is launching two books at the festival this year.
Harold Rhenisch’s family first sank their fingers into the glacial soils of the Okanagan in 1929, when his grandparents took the Sternwheeler SS Sicamous up Okanagan Lake to Okanagan Mission and sharecropped for John Casorso. Come hear him speak about the terroir of the wines of Summerland, in their geological and social history, as he launches his new book of poems, The Salmon Shanties. This is the official launch party for a book that took Harold across the length and breadth of Cascadia, from Yellowstone through the vineyards of the Umpqua, up through the Willamette, Walla Walla, Columbia Gorge, Rattlesnake Hills and Waluke appellations. Harold will pair the wines of the lake bottoms and glacial rivers of Summerland with poems weaving in the rainforests of the coast, Okanagan salmon, the early history of Summerland, and his long experience with Okanagan orchards and vineyards. This is an event that places the Okanagan in its deep history and links it to wines you can taste on your tongue and hear in your ear all at once. If you love this land of water and sun in North America’s greatest watershed, Cascadia, you will love it even more after this celebration.
Harold Rhenisch is the Okanagan author of 34 books and the 3,000 posts of the fabled blog okanaganokanogan.com, which has been called the best online writing about the Okanagan. He wrote the orcharding history Out of the Interior, and won the George Ryga Prize for Social Responsibility in Literature for his feminist history The Wolves at Evelyn. He won two CBC poetry prizes and worked with the photographer Chris Harris to create the defining book of the grasslands of BC, Spirit in the Grass, and Motherstone, its volcanic history. In 1979, he made a trip to Sunnyside Washington, to bring home a truckload of some of the first vinifera grape vines in the Okanagan. Harold is launching two books at the festival this year.
Author, Isobel Rondeau was born and raised in Edmonton Alberta and eventually settled in northern Alberta where she and her husband raised their two children. Currently residing in beautiful British Columbia, Isobel finds peace and tranquility while writing close to nature. Fiction stories about everyday people are what she enjoys writing about. Isobel also writes under the pen name Belle Rondeau.
NOVELS:
“Wings Of An Angel”
The life after residential school is not an easy one. Follow Mark Whitestone as his life unfolds before your eyes, laugh at his stories, cry at his heartbreak, love who he is and watch as his wings open.
“Absence Of Breath”
Walk with Sahtu as he meets various people in the afterlife and why they are important to him and his future self.
“Ava’s Curse”
Travel the country as young witch, Ava, and her friends try to break the curse that follows her family from generation to generation. Along the way you meet several characters who help or hinder their progress, in the end her magic must prevail. Book one.
Author, Isobel Rondeau was born and raised in Edmonton Alberta and eventually settled in northern Alberta where she and her husband raised their two children. Currently residing in beautiful British Columbia, Isobel finds peace and tranquility while writing close to nature. Fiction stories about everyday people are what she enjoys writing about. Isobel also writes under the pen name Belle Rondeau.
NOVELS:
“Wings Of An Angel”
The life after residential school is not an easy one. Follow Mark Whitestone as his life unfolds before your eyes, laugh at his stories, cry at his heartbreak, love who he is and watch as his wings open.
“Absence Of Breath”
Walk with Sahtu as he meets various people in the afterlife and why they are important to him and his future self.
“Ava’s Curse”
Travel the country as young witch, Ava, and her friends try to break the curse that follows her family from generation to generation. Along the way you meet several characters who help or hinder their progress, in the end her magic must prevail. Book one.
Born and raised in the Okanagan, Jamie found a passion for musical theatre at a young stage. She has performed across Canada on stage, commercials, and music videos, before settling down in Calgary. For six years she taught the Musical Theatre Program at the Calgary Actors' Studio, worked in the Learning and Engagement department at Theatre Calgary, all while continuing to perform on stage. Jamie is excited to be back in the Okanagan raising a family, and thrilled to call Summerland home. She recently started teaching with the Soundstage Youth Performance Arts Group in Penticton, and performed on stage earlier this year in Soundstage Productions' Disney+ Broadway Musical Showcase. Currently, Jamie is assisting and directing in The Ryga Festival’s Theatre Trails and continues to be an instructor at In House Performing Arts Studio in Summerland.
Born and raised in the Okanagan, Jamie found a passion for musical theatre at a young stage. She has performed across Canada on stage, commercials, and music videos, before settling down in Calgary. For six years she taught the Musical Theatre Program at the Calgary Actors' Studio, worked in the Learning and Engagement department at Theatre Calgary, all while continuing to perform on stage. Jamie is excited to be back in the Okanagan raising a family, and thrilled to call Summerland home. She recently started teaching with the Soundstage Youth Performance Arts Group in Penticton, and performed on stage earlier this year in Soundstage Productions' Disney+ Broadway Musical Showcase. Currently, Jamie is assisting and directing in The Ryga Festival’s Theatre Trails and continues to be an instructor at In House Performing Arts Studio in Summerland.
John Arendt lives in Summerland, British Columbia. He has written short fiction and short stage plays, and has been on stage and behind the scenes in community theatre. Much of his fiction and playwriting comes from observations in his role as the editor of the Summerland Review.
John Arendt lives in Summerland, British Columbia. He has written short fiction and short stage plays, and has been on stage and behind the scenes in community theatre. Much of his fiction and playwriting comes from observations in his role as the editor of the Summerland Review.
A desire to put a smile on the faces of home dialysis patients propelled John to take an Improv class. The instructor encouraged John to audition where he landed his first role as Mr. Beaver in the New Vintage production of The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Since then John has appeared in a few productions with the most recent being William Blore in And Then There Were None and Greenway in Elf (New Vintage) as well as Wadsworth in Clue (Crossing Creek). John did not start acting until well into his 50s proving that you are never too old to try something new.
A desire to put a smile on the faces of home dialysis patients propelled John to take an Improv class. The instructor encouraged John to audition where he landed his first role as Mr. Beaver in the New Vintage production of The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Since then John has appeared in a few productions with the most recent being William Blore in And Then There Were None and Greenway in Elf (New Vintage) as well as Wadsworth in Clue (Crossing Creek). John did not start acting until well into his 50s proving that you are never too old to try something new.
John has spent the last 3 years involved in the Okanagan theatre scene, as both an actor and sound technician. As lead sound tech for Cats Paw Productions Rocky Horror Picture Show in 2022, John got to flex his talents, working tech with a 13-cast ensemble and a 5-piece band. Even during Covid years, he stayed busy by teching the 2021 and 2022 Ryga Arts Festival events. He has performed in Summerland Singers and Players' Murder on the Rails in 2022 and Blackmail on the Rails in 2023 and assisted with story development for Covid the Musical: We're All In This Together and for The Button. Stepping out from the tech side is a new and exciting adventure and he looks forward to unleashing a longtime and unexplored passion.
John has spent the last 3 years involved in the Okanagan theatre scene, as both an actor and sound technician. As lead sound tech for Cats Paw Productions Rocky Horror Picture Show in 2022, John got to flex his talents, working tech with a 13-cast ensemble and a 5-piece band. Even during Covid years, he stayed busy by teching the 2021 and 2022 Ryga Arts Festival events. He has performed in Summerland Singers and Players' Murder on the Rails in 2022 and Blackmail on the Rails in 2023 and assisted with story development for Covid the Musical: We're All In This Together and for The Button. Stepping out from the tech side is a new and exciting adventure and he looks forward to unleashing a longtime and unexplored passion.
Jordann Wolff is a classically trained actor making her comeback to the stage as the bicyclist, in CarbonNation. During her three years at Victoria School of the Performing and Visual Arts, Jordann was involved in a number of musicals, plays and improv shows. In 2016, Jordann took a theatre hiatus to focus on her academic aspirations, and has since become a paramedic.
Jordann Wolff is a classically trained actor making her comeback to the stage as the bicyclist, in CarbonNation. During her three years at Victoria School of the Performing and Visual Arts, Jordann was involved in a number of musicals, plays and improv shows. In 2016, Jordann took a theatre hiatus to focus on her academic aspirations, and has since become a paramedic.
Playwright - GPS/GPS Voice/Venue Manager
Karla Hennig has directed, acted, stage managed or designed for more shows than she can remember and spent the last 12 years of her "working" life running a 700 seat roadhouse. She has received four "Best Female Actor" awards from Theatre BC Competitions and has seen three of her plays jump off the page and onto the stage. When not in theatre mode she sings, plays harp and piano, gets lost while hiking, designs fundraising activities for non-profits and tries to ignore housework.
Playwright - GPS/GPS Voice/Venue Manager
Karla Hennig has directed, acted, stage managed or designed for more shows than she can remember and spent the last 12 years of her "working" life running a 700 seat roadhouse. She has received four "Best Female Actor" awards from Theatre BC Competitions and has seen three of her plays jump off the page and onto the stage. When not in theatre mode she sings, plays harp and piano, gets lost while hiking, designs fundraising activities for non-profits and tries to ignore housework.
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Kim Palmer is honoured to be part of the Theatre Trail in the cast of Wings of an Angel. She has performed locally with Showtime! Community Theatre, Many Hats, and Summerland Singers & Players (Murder on the Rails). She would like to thank Isobel for the opportunity, and everyone with whom she’s shared a stage for helping her grow as a performer.
Kim Palmer is honoured to be part of the Theatre Trail in the cast of Wings of an Angel. She has performed locally with Showtime! Community Theatre, Many Hats, and Summerland Singers & Players (Murder on the Rails). She would like to thank Isobel for the opportunity, and everyone with whom she’s shared a stage for helping her grow as a performer.
Loni has been a resident of Penticton since 2017. She works in social work and is new to the theatre scene. Loni recently appeared as the intrepid reporter in last summer’s Blackmail on the Rails, with the Summerland Singers and Players. Loni loves improvisation, gardening, cosplay, and making people laugh.
Loni has been a resident of Penticton since 2017. She works in social work and is new to the theatre scene. Loni recently appeared as the intrepid reporter in last summer’s Blackmail on the Rails, with the Summerland Singers and Players. Loni loves improvisation, gardening, cosplay, and making people laugh.
Playing “Vancouver” in CarbonNation and new to the Summerland community, MacKenzie has settled here for the long haul, to be near family. When not on the local theatre stage, he’s working in the high-tech crypto startup realm and building saunas.
Playing “Vancouver” in CarbonNation and new to the Summerland community, MacKenzie has settled here for the long haul, to be near family. When not on the local theatre stage, he’s working in the high-tech crypto startup realm and building saunas.
Melissa is happy to be participating in Theatre Trail at the Ryga Arts Festival for the first time. She has had the opportunity to act in a handful of productions over the years. She is thankful to be cast in CarbonNation and hopes you enjoy it.
Melissa is happy to be participating in Theatre Trail at the Ryga Arts Festival for the first time. She has had the opportunity to act in a handful of productions over the years. She is thankful to be cast in CarbonNation and hopes you enjoy it.
Michael is a local Okanagan song slinger healing himself and the world around him with music. The experienced songsmith crafts intentional and lyrically rich music infused with intimate storytelling that resonates deep within the human experience. Michael Stanley Edward believes music can transmute pain and suffering into beauty and that this magical medicine of music should be experienced, celebrated, and encouraged by all.
Instagram: @michael.se.music
Spotify: Michael Stanley Edward
Website:michaelstanleyedward.bandcamp.com
Michael is a local Okanagan song slinger healing himself and the world around him with music. The experienced songsmith crafts intentional and lyrically rich music infused with intimate storytelling that resonates deep within the human experience. Michael Stanley Edward believes music can transmute pain and suffering into beauty and that this magical medicine of music should be experienced, celebrated, and encouraged by all.
Instagram: @michael.se.music
Spotify: Michael Stanley Edward
Website:michaelstanleyedward.bandcamp.com
Michele Rule is a disabled writer from Kelowna BC. She is especially interested in the topics of chronic illness, relationships and nature. Michele is published in Pine Cone Review, Five Minute Lit, Spillwords, WordCityLit, Okay Donkey, Poetry Pause and the anthologies F*ck the Patriarchy, Chicken Soup for the Soul, and To Live Here, among others. She is an associate member of the League of Canadian Poets and co-edits the Solitary Daisy Haiku Journal. Michele lives in a beautiful garden surrounded by people who love her just the way she is. You can read some of Michele’s work at www.linktr.ee/michelerule
Michele Rule is a disabled writer from Kelowna BC. She is especially interested in the topics of chronic illness, relationships and nature. Michele is published in Pine Cone Review, Five Minute Lit, Spillwords, WordCityLit, Okay Donkey, Poetry Pause and the anthologies F*ck the Patriarchy, Chicken Soup for the Soul, and To Live Here, among others. She is an associate member of the League of Canadian Poets and co-edits the Solitary Daisy Haiku Journal. Michele lives in a beautiful garden surrounded by people who love her just the way she is. You can read some of Michele’s work at www.linktr.ee/michelerule
Nicole Browne is an actor/writer/performer based in Kelowna BC. She recently played Margaret in Shakespeare Kelowna’s 2024 production of Much Ado About Nothing, and has spent the past few years working with the Living Things International Arts Festival as a festival manager. Nicole graduated from UBCO in 2023 with a BA in French, Spanish and Theatre, and is returning this fall for her Bachelor’s in Education. She is excited to join the cast of Tidepool as Naomi!
Nicole Browne is an actor/writer/performer based in Kelowna BC. She recently played Margaret in Shakespeare Kelowna’s 2024 production of Much Ado About Nothing, and has spent the past few years working with the Living Things International Arts Festival as a festival manager. Nicole graduated from UBCO in 2023 with a BA in French, Spanish and Theatre, and is returning this fall for her Bachelor’s in Education. She is excited to join the cast of Tidepool as Naomi!
Ollie Rankin is a Kiwi-Canadian creative technology pioneer, award-winning multidisciplinary
artist and futurist. He’s worked at the forefront of the global visual effects industry, from The Lord
of the Rings to Alice Through the Looking Glass and is recognized as a pioneer of virtual reality
(VR) entertainment. Rankin has produced music festivals in the metaverse that were seen by
millions, has won accolades for his virtual production and virtual reality films, and has contributed
to groundbreaking technological advancements in spatial computing. He’s worked with the
creators of Fortnight, been an industry advisor to NASA and has repeatedly been recognized as a
top ten thought leader in VR. But Rankin’s true calling is as a champion of human destiny. He is
co-founder and director of the United Humans Foundation, a non-profit that advocates for
collective decision-making based on love, fairness and science. As a writer, poet and performer,
he challenges the conventional wisdom that exploitation, greed and inequality are inevitable and
strives to inspire audiences with the potential for an inclusive, fair and sustainable future.
Ollie Rankin is a Kiwi-Canadian creative technology pioneer, award-winning multidisciplinary
artist and futurist. He’s worked at the forefront of the global visual effects industry, from The Lord
of the Rings to Alice Through the Looking Glass and is recognized as a pioneer of virtual reality
(VR) entertainment. Rankin has produced music festivals in the metaverse that were seen by
millions, has won accolades for his virtual production and virtual reality films, and has contributed
to groundbreaking technological advancements in spatial computing. He’s worked with the
creators of Fortnight, been an industry advisor to NASA and has repeatedly been recognized as a
top ten thought leader in VR. But Rankin’s true calling is as a champion of human destiny. He is
co-founder and director of the United Humans Foundation, a non-profit that advocates for
collective decision-making based on love, fairness and science. As a writer, poet and performer,
he challenges the conventional wisdom that exploitation, greed and inequality are inevitable and
strives to inspire audiences with the potential for an inclusive, fair and sustainable future.
A veteran of film & theater, Peg Barcelo has spent much of her career either performing in various bands, as an improv actor or stand up comic at clubs or corporate events in Alberta. She came back to community theater after a 19 year hiatus in May of 2019 & is now performing again in music, film & theater, having been in 3 movie of the weeks, playing music in vineyards in the valley & is thrilled to be casted in her 3rd Ryga festival play.
A veteran of film & theater, Peg Barcelo has spent much of her career either performing in various bands, as an improv actor or stand up comic at clubs or corporate events in Alberta. She came back to community theater after a 19 year hiatus in May of 2019 & is now performing again in music, film & theater, having been in 3 movie of the weeks, playing music in vineyards in the valley & is thrilled to be casted in her 3rd Ryga festival play.
Rob has been involved with community theatre since 2017, and enjoys both comedy and mystery. He’s been involved in the production of Baskerville and has recently played “Jonas” in the production of Jonas and Barry at Many Hats. With Summerland Singers and Players, he’s enjoyed participating in several Murder on the Rails productions. In addition, he has particularly enjoyed being part of the Ryga Arts Festival and has written & performed in short plays for the RygaFest Theatre Trails.
Rob has been involved with community theatre since 2017, and enjoys both comedy and mystery. He’s been involved in the production of Baskerville and has recently played “Jonas” in the production of Jonas and Barry at Many Hats. With Summerland Singers and Players, he’s enjoyed participating in several Murder on the Rails productions. In addition, he has particularly enjoyed being part of the Ryga Arts Festival and has written & performed in short plays for the RygaFest Theatre Trails.
Opening Night Artist
Opening Night Artist
Taylor Williams (they/them) is an American-Canadian Poet, born in Los Angeles California. Their poems stem from complex relations of loved ones struggling with addiction, finding and recovering from love, and finding oneself. The journey is bittersweet, but promising. Taylor currently resides in British Columbia, Canada, always writing, and redefining their world.
Taylor Williams (they/them) is an American-Canadian Poet, born in Los Angeles California. Their poems stem from complex relations of loved ones struggling with addiction, finding and recovering from love, and finding oneself. The journey is bittersweet, but promising. Taylor currently resides in British Columbia, Canada, always writing, and redefining their world.
I have lived in Summerland for most of my life and have been involved in acting, writing and directing for over thirty years.
In 2019, I wrote and directed a short movie called Remember Me which made it to Hollywood's Directors Guild of America where I got to walk the red carpet.
Theater has always been a passion
I have lived in Summerland for most of my life and have been involved in acting, writing and directing for over thirty years.
In 2019, I wrote and directed a short movie called Remember Me which made it to Hollywood's Directors Guild of America where I got to walk the red carpet.
Theater has always been a passion
A visual artist, songwriter, composer and now playwright, Trista has participated in art exhibits and musical performances across Canada, including Vancouver, Victoria, Toronto and Dartmouth, NS. She is half of a folk music duo named Small Kitchen Chaos, and a Canada Heritage and BC Arts Council Grant Recipient for performance and scoring of Covid the Musical: We’re All In This Together. She was blind-selected for her first 10-minute play, The Buton for this year’s 8th annual Ryga Arts Fesval, which she will be directing for the first me. Trista has also been the general manager of the Ryga Arts Festival since 2021 and is excited about this year’s upcoming festival!
A visual artist, songwriter, composer and now playwright, Trista has participated in art exhibits and musical performances across Canada, including Vancouver, Victoria, Toronto and Dartmouth, NS. She is half of a folk music duo named Small Kitchen Chaos, and a Canada Heritage and BC Arts Council Grant Recipient for performance and scoring of Covid the Musical: We’re All In This Together. She was blind-selected for her first 10-minute play, The Buton for this year’s 8th annual Ryga Arts Fesval, which she will be directing for the first me. Trista has also been the general manager of the Ryga Arts Festival since 2021 and is excited about this year’s upcoming festival!
Tristan Joseph Boisvert, a settler of French and English descent, shaped by the smalqmix lands
(Similkameen) before leaving at 17 years old. As a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+, OLMCs, and
MAD artistic communities, they are driven by a profound desire to spark dialogues about the
multifaceted terrain of identity. A poet, writer and film photographer, their work traverses the
dichotomies inherent in urban and rural environments, grapples with mental health, reclaims
language, and interrogates notions of positionality and objectivity. Their written and visual work
has been published internationally. They currently work as Director of the Penticton Arts
Council.
Tristan Joseph Boisvert, a settler of French and English descent, shaped by the smalqmix lands
(Similkameen) before leaving at 17 years old. As a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+, OLMCs, and
MAD artistic communities, they are driven by a profound desire to spark dialogues about the
multifaceted terrain of identity. A poet, writer and film photographer, their work traverses the
dichotomies inherent in urban and rural environments, grapples with mental health, reclaims
language, and interrogates notions of positionality and objectivity. Their written and visual work
has been published internationally. They currently work as Director of the Penticton Arts
Council.
Vince is excited to be involved in this year's Theatre Trail and hopes you enjoy all that these plays have to offer. You may have seen Vince in a show with Many Hats or doing his best to keep up with all the fantastic singers with Showtime Community Theatre. There's a chance you might also get a glimpse of him at the Venables Theatre, in SOAP's version of the Play That Goes Wrong this November.
Vince is excited to be involved in this year's Theatre Trail and hopes you enjoy all that these plays have to offer. You may have seen Vince in a show with Many Hats or doing his best to keep up with all the fantastic singers with Showtime Community Theatre. There's a chance you might also get a glimpse of him at the Venables Theatre, in SOAP's version of the Play That Goes Wrong this November.