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Francesco Antonio (Actor, Writer, Director) is an award-winning actor and one of Toronto's newest rising stars. With a variety of talents, Francesco has managed to excel in projects for audiences of all ages. Francesco is a unique actor, who stands out in every role.
His understanding of the audience and the functions of a set come from his experience in front and behind the camera. Francesco is well-known for being able to develop characters alongside well-known directors and producers which has quickly made him a favourite to work with. His first starring role in the short film Addiction (2018) won awards in festivals world-wide, and in total, Francesco has earned 6 nominations and 3 awards for his work, in less than a year.
Francesco received nominations in Spain for Best Actor at the Barcelona Planet Film Festival (Addiction, 2018), he also received Honorable Mention in Los Angeles for Best Actor and Best Indie Film (Addiction, 2018), from the Los Angeles Film Awards. Most recently Francesco made a splash in Las Vegas where he was nominated 4 times and received the G.I.F.T.E.D award from the Action On Film Festival, making it the first time the award was given to an "actor" in the festivals history. Francesco was also nominated in the Hollywood Dreamz International Film Festival in Las Vegas for Best Actor (Addiction,2018) and Best Young Performer (The Joke Thief,2018) but was awarded the prestigious, Lewis Mitchell Award for Acting (Addiction,2018
Francesco has already worked opposite legends such as Franco Nero (Django, 1966), Danny Aiello (Godfather Part 2, 1974) (Do The Right Thing, 1989) and Giancarlo Giannini (Hannibal,2001) (Quantum of Solace, 2008) in The Neighborhood (2017). Most recently Francesco has worked on What We Do in the Shadows (2019) for FX network with Jermaine Clement (Flight of the Conchords, 2007-2009) (Men in Black 3, 2012). Francesco also just played a memorable roll in the hit show Bad Blood (2017-2018) opposite Kim Coates (Sons of Anarchy, 2008-2014) (CSI: Miami, 2008-2009).
Francesco is set to star in the Short Film Love, Sarah (2018) opposite Diana Confini (Rogue,2016) (Copenhagen Road, 2019) to hit film festivals.
19 NOVEMBER 2020 - Canadian legend Snow has returned home to Toronto after a successful trip from Miami winning 8 Awards; 6 Latin Billboard Awards, 1 iHeartRadio Award & 1 Billboard Award.
Snow is also set to release a new Latin themed single & music video “Together” on all digital platforms on Friday Nov 20, 2020.
The song features & showcases the new talent under his DKO Music Group label that he has been developing for the past few years. Snow and company, Francesco Antonio (artist /actor), William Dinero (artist/record producer) & Balam Kiel (artist) stand out with their spectacular performance on this fun, catchy, dance provoking Latin rhythm committed to keeping you warm this winter. The trailer to the music video teases a novela (Latin soap opera) feel showcasing a love story blended with action & drama.
Last year, Snow had a colossal resurgence into the music world via his worldwide hit collaboration “Con Calma” with Daddy Yankee. On August 6, 2020, RIAA certified Con Calma as 41x platinum & on August 11, 2020, Con Calma surpassed 2 Billion views on Youtube becoming Snow’s first visual to achieve this remarkable target. On Nov 6, 2020, Amazon Prime Video premiered the hit series “Wayne” starring Francesco Antonio which currently holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. William Dinero recently co-wrote & co-produced “Se Prendio” by 71x Platinum selling artist Nio Garcia & Casper El Magico featuring Juan Gaban & Snow which debuted on October 23, 2020. The song currently has 3.3 Million views.
Snow is set to release his next single “Reason to Love” featuring Balam Kiel in December 2020 produced by Juno Award winner Dj Kemo. DKO Music Groups’ co-founder & executive producer, Frank “Genie” Farz says “ This recording, Together, comes to us at a pivotal moment in our lives in which we should embrace and value togetherness & love which we sometimes take for granted.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JhQw... - Together Official Trailer
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Photo by @mycreativesocial @francesco.antonio -
PIPE NATION - An oil and gas community comes together as they navigate a changing industry.
Natallie Gamble had no problem taking on the role of a debt-ridden, single mom working in the oilpatch in the pilot for a planned new TV series called Pipe Nation.
“This is me. I am ‘Pipe Nation,'” she said with a laugh Monday during an interview with The Canadian Press in Sundre, Alta., a picturesque oil town nestled near the Rocky Mountains.
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“I’ve been working in the oil and gas industry for about six years. I took a break when the bust happened and did a little serving, a little bartending. but always went back to the oil and gas,” added Gamble, who is 24.
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“My father, my grandfather, and my great grandfather were all in the oil and gas industry as well.” Natallie.
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Sundre is set to become the fictional community of Hardwell. The drama will focus on day-to-day hardships labourers face, with Gamble’s character as the leader of a pipe gang — workers who position and align the pipe, preparing it for the weld. In real life, Gamble has held a number of jobs in the industry including welding.
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By Bill Graveland The Canadian Press
PIPE NATION is located in the boreal forests of Alberta and British Columbia.
Hardwell is a fictional town near the border of two provinces at odds with each other. Meanwhile, the camp Ashley and Ty work at is called Kilometer 72. They have just crossed over into a province whose energy values don’t align with their own and run into protests and antipathy. A single, debt-ridden mother takes a job as a pipe laborer at a remote camp near the town of Hardwell. As tensions grow between workers and neighboring communities, Ashley is challenged to protect the industry and her only source of income.
Forming an unlikely bond with a member of her crew, Ashley and Ty help one another navigate hostile working conditions and the complexities of an industry in transition. Pipe Nation is a fictional analysis of the historical, political, and economic significance of pipelines. It works to illuminate the unique relationships between individual citizens and the webs of steel which lie below.
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FOLLOW
https://www.facebook.com/pipenationtv/
https://www.facebook.com/NatGambler/
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INTERVIEW BY I'M HERE WITH, PHOTOSHOOT AND VIDEO/AUDIO BY JOSE SORIANO, AND ON SET SUPPORT BY @AYLOLAXO. -
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VIRGIN RADIO 98.5 HOST KYLEE ROMAN TALKS OPENLY WITH US ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH, LIFE DURING COVID AND BEING A PILLER IN HER COMMUNITY BY STANDING UP FOR EQUAL RIGHTS AND HER LGBTQIA2S+ COMMUNITY IN CALGARY.
Kylee brings you everything that's trending and the MOST Non-Stop Hit Music in Calgary, every hour!
Hey! I’m Kylee Roman and my hair is quite possibly one of my most prized possessions alongside my love for carbs. I’m really stoked to get to know you and would love to get in touch! Hit me up at @THEREALKYLEEROMAN on Instagram and Twitter.
You can catch me in your ear holes during week day evenings and yelling at you about how cute your dog is off my balcony during the day. I love being a part of Calgary’s LGBTQ2S+ community and getting into the need to have important conversations. I promise to always keep it 100 with you unless that involves me telling you about your great grandmas recipe passed on from generations and how it needs more salt.
You can follow me @therealkyleeroman on social media and catch me 7-pm-12am on Virgin Radio. Thanks for being a friend!
LISTEN ON 7 PM-12 AM
https://www.iheartradio.ca/virginradio/calgary/shows/kylee-roman-1.4586591?fbclid=IwAR0tqvH3_mUKO6_HMYDjJeHNzYcX74feaOMiectnVPUeMeYTjkOwsGNeun8
CTV INTERVIEW ABOUT THE NEW PRIDE RADIO
https://calgary.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=2026703&fbclid=IwAR0tqvH3_mUKO6_HMYDjJeHNzYcX74feaOMiectnVPUeMeYTjkOwsGNeun8
Don't miss Calgary Pride Radio Launch Party + Drag Show
Sept. 5, 2020, 3 p.m. at Trolley5 - Calgary.
Join us to see some of the best queens and kings in town
while enjoying the new pulse of LGBTQ2S+ Calgary, Calgary Pride Radio.
Saturday, September 5, 2020
$5 Ticket includes first beverage & $1 donation to Calgary Pride.
Doors Open: 2:30 pm
Performances: 3:30 pm + 4:30 pm + 5:30 pm
Trolley 5 Brewpub Atrium
$5 Inclusion Ale Sleeves + $4 Daily Happy Hour (3pm - 6pm)
Your headliners for the afternoon are:
Nearah Nuff
Nada Nuff
Farrah Nuff
DeVery Bess
Tangerine Dream
https://www.showpass.com/prideradiolaunchparty/ -
Christine Blanchette is the Host/producer of Run With It on NOVUS TV, & TELUS Healthy Living Network® & Host of The Closing Act.
Christine is an energetic and enthusiastic host turning her passion for running and everything fitness into a career. Her show Run With It is broadcast monthly on Novus TV (TELUS) and her YouTube channel. Interviewing health and fitness professionals, athletes and celebrities on everything from proper nutrition to training for marathons, Christine brings the best experts in the industry to keep you informed and inspired.
Christine has interviewed celebrities including Andre De Grasse, Bif Naked and Frank Beddor, David Oulton, Jordan Gooden, Jill Maria and more.
Christine’s other program is The Closing Act, a monthly music show profiling musicians and influencers in the industry.
She has interviewed International recording artist Bif Naked, Rock star Lee Aaron, Russell Earl Marsland and others.
The show airs on Novus TV (TELUS) and YouTube.
Photo credit: David Naman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pA1l4KdGwFU
Run With It is a monthly show on running, fitness and nutrition with interviews from health and fitness experts, and celebrities who workout or follow a healthy lifestyle. Run With It also covers events.
Keep Up With Christine:
Website: http://www.runwithit.ca
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/runwithit_ch
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/runwithitshow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/christineruns -
Bill Evans the Executive Director of AMPIA and I'm Here With Magazine talk @yourampia nominees and the October 8th, Online interactive 46th Rosie Awards! A clip from our interview! Stay tuned!
Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA)
FINALISTS and new event date announced for the 2020 Alberta Film & Television (Rosie) Awards.
The Alberta Media Production Industries Association (AMPIA) has continued to work through the delays and difficulty of this unprecedented time of pandemic. Today AMPIA is very pleased to be able to announce their finalists for the 46th annual Alberta Film & Television Awards, celebrating excellence and outstanding achievement in Alberta’s screen industries.
The 2020 Awards were to have taken place on May 23 but have now been rescheduled. The winners will be announced in a FaceBook/You Tube Event Production on Thursday, October 8, 2020.
As for who is up for the 54 prestigious Rosie Awards, a total of 623 class (215) and craft (408) entries were submitted for consideration into this year’s awards, resulting in 308 total finalists; 121 class and 187 craft. For this year’s awards 54 industry professionals outside of Alberta adjudicated the submissions.
These productions, from commercials, new media, and both long and short form fiction and non-fiction are vying for 21 Class awards. In addition, Alberta’s talented screenwriters, costume and production designers, cinematographers, editors, directors, make-up artists, special effects artists, sound technicians and composers are competing in 33 Craft categories.
Of all finalists, 189 are from productions based in the city of Calgary, while 100 are from Edmonton-based productions. There were also 20 finalists from other communities in Alberta. As always, some Edmonton productions used Calgary talent. Similarly, some Calgary productions employed Edmonton talent. This should be kept in mind when comparing the breakdown.
In Calgary SEVEN24 Films had the largest number of finalists with 18, while Bamboo Shoots had the second most, with 14 finalists. With a total of 14, Sticks and Stones had the greatest number of Edmonton finalists. Yardwork Films followed with 7 finalists.
As for individual productions, Calgary based Prairie Dog Film & Television’s production of “Tribal” has the most finalists, with 12. The production receiving the second greatest number of finalists is also Calgary based, SEVEN24 Films’ “Heartland,” with 10. The individual production with the largest number of finalists from Edmonton is Yardwork Productions of “Whiteface” with 7.
The Alberta Film & Television Awards, continues to be the oldest film and/or television awards event in Canada, honouring its provincial production industry.
In order to qualify for an Alberta Film & Television Award a production must be produced or co-produced by a production company based in Alberta. For any craftsperson to be eligible he or she must have been a resident of Alberta for the 2019 calendar year.
Rosie Award Nominees were announced by AMPIA Board member Michelle Wong live from the stage at the Webber Academy in Calgary. Watch it on YouTube or Facebook. -
Photo of Joey by Katherine Calnan for issue 3. Joey was a part of our Uncovering 40 New Stars of Tomorrow spread! Recently his music scored for the film Whiskey Flavoured Toothpaste by Ray Pearson has been nominated over 20 awards world wide.
Joey Pringle a Canadian Metis Blues Singer & Songwriter Releases Devils Game When you first see Joey Pringle you go, who is that?! You instantly want to know more about the 6 foot tall Manitoba Metis blues singer-song writer. Joey's signature dressed in black look resembles a modern-day Elvis. They both come from Indigenous heritages, Pringle is Cree Metis and Elvis was Cherokee. What else they have in common is how they both shake their legs like crazy when they perform. What people love most about this thirty’s old soul, is he’s a excellent singer! People will stop talking and really listen to his booming yet controlled rasp which makes you want to hear more.
He has been working hard for years to sustain his love of singing and performing, he moved from Birch River, Manitoba to pursue his blues singing and song writing career. Joey built a big following especially online. We first met Joey through Allan Stickel, Neil Enock and Paul Fry at a boy’s night out almost two years ago. We all had the pleasure of listening to a solo song right at the table, that he played for his dear friend Allan Stickel, who past away in 2017. Joey made a truly gorgeous blues song about his friend James Allan moments after the news of hearing he had past which he called Heaven's Hero. He said it just poured out of him, it truly honors who Al was and it brings people to tears because it's very relate-able to anyone who has lost someone. Joey is a registered SOCAN member and is in the mist of making his first CD for his fans who keep telling him it’s time and they want a Joey Pringle record! His latest song Devil's Game sounds like a Quentin Tarantino soundtrack song!
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FOLLOW JOEY PRINGLE
https://soundcloud.com/user-726810622/devils-game
FOLLOW
https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyFT -
WILLIAM STEWART IS A RISING VANCOUVER STAR wWHO SPEAKS OUT ABOUT BEING A BLACK MAN IN THE CANADIAN FILM INDUSTRY, HIS LOVE OF ACTING, CREATING HIS OWN PROJECTS, AND WHAT IT WAS LIKE TO WORK WITH STARS, ED HELMS AND TARAJI P. HENSON.
William “BIGSLEEPS” Stewart or “BIGSLEEPS” as he likes to be called. Was born in Toronto, Canada, to an immigrant mother from Grenada and father, from Trinidad. Bigsleeps began his entertainment career as rapper, performing as an opening act for major recording artists, Pioneers from Public Enemy and Ice T, Naughty by Nature, Kool Keith, Maestro, Moka Only, Kardinal Offishall, Usher, 112 and Ludacris to name a few.
Bigsleeps was a Street Team Rep for BMG Music Group, which sparked his love for creativity in marketing and promotions. Bigsleeps decided to host/MC club nights that gave him the opportunity to get new promotional music and Swag, to a mass amount of people at one time. His career in film and television began on City TV’s A-Channel show, Island Underground, whereafter he haphazardly fell into acting, landing roles in independent films and the hit television series, Blade. Since then, he’s been seen on the hit series, Sanctuary, Pretty Little Liars as well as making appearances in the summer blockbuster The Day The Earth Stood Still and the Seth Rogan film, 50/50.
TRUE JUSTICE - Marked “BIGSLEEPS’” first leading role with action star Steven Seagal. His more recent claims to fame have been on the hit television series The LA Complex, Fear the Walking Dead, Grace Point, Impastor, iZombie, The Show, Arrow, Game Over Man, Good Boys and Bigsleeps plays Dee in the Netflix Movie Coffee & Kareem. Bigsleeps also wrote the song, produced by DJ Quiet Storm, Titled “Wud Up Doe” for the movie Coffee & Kareem, performed by his Co-Star Ronreaco Rico” Lee. Additionally, Stewart co-stars in two Drama films currently streaming on Amazon Prime, Torn: Dark Bullets (as Ethan Bell), and Genesis Code (as Charlie Miller).
To add to his multi-talented resume, Bigsleeps also is a writer and producer of the online comedy web-series “Cloud Van” and plays and exaggerated over the top version of himself. He also is the host of his online global radio show called “Hollywood North Radio, where he interviews Actors, Film Industry Department Heads, Musicians, members of the Arts Community and up and coming talent. His intention is to provide support to creatives. This segmented show is important because as a creative himself he understands the vitality of paying it forward. His mother always told him “You can do anything you want in life if you put your mind to it”.
Recently, the talented man of the people received a nomination for the prestigious LEO Awards for Best Actor in a Comedy Series (Bachelor Daddy).
Follow his journal via social on the following platforms!
Instagram:
@big_sleeps
@hollywoodnorthradio
Twitter:
@bigsleeps1
@hollywoodnorthradio
Lesley Logan
Partner | UpscalePR, LLC. - Public Impact Agency -
PATRICK OF I'M HERE WITH INTERVIEWS RISING NEW YORK MUSICIAN LUKE MOCK.
Luke Mock is an 18-year-old singer-songwriter from Auburn, New York. Luke has developed his own unique sound with an overall goal to demonstrate his own emotions and inspire others. Luke has opened for national acts such as Ryan Quinn, John Gorka, Paul Elia, Mark Doyle, Joe Whiting, Neyla Pekarek, and more. He also headlined Perform 4 Purpose In 2019, a non-profit organization which provides opportunities for musicians to perform while raising money for charities, benefits, and more. Luke has raised over $200,000 through Perform 4 Purpose and continues to contribute to their mission.
With much in store, Luke is very excited to be working towards his next releases and first EP. Luke will be
releasing his new single for preorder May 29, and "Universe" will be officially released June 12.
"Universe was inspired by the thought of a relationship being interrupted by another person. The thought of someone being your absolute everything but losing it all because of forces that are hard to control, much like the universe."
LUKEMOCK.COM
Genre: Pop
Hometown: Auburn, New York
Influences: Shawn Mendes, Charlie Puth, Nick Jonas, Lewis Capaldi, John Mayer
"UNIVERSE" REVIEWS
“A song sang exclusively from the heart! The deep pain is felt when your relationship is invaded by an unwelcomed intruder! The feeling of never giving up hope and craving your true love, your person, your everything, return to your existence.”
Janie Gallegos, Editor at “Janie Gallegos”
“I hear HUGE potential in this song and definitely feeling the lyrics and catchy beat. Someone get me an interview with this rising star!”
- Rachel Cruz, Owner/CEO/Editor of FAME MAGAZINE GLOBAL
“What a mesmerizing song and love the unique vocals.”
- “I’m Here With Magazine”
“Luke Mock’s Song Universe has a great feel to it. Also nice hook with a message we can all relate to with our special someone. I can hear this song being in a movie."
- Lance Motogawa, Motogowa Entertainment Show Song Review
You can follow Luke here
https://lukemock.com
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4ybmw...
https://www.instagram.com/lukemockmusic/
https://twitter.com/lukemockmusic
PR Temima Shames -
We have been fans of Bruce Blain since his Supernatual role in 2013 and became major fans of him from his role as Vic on CW's Riverdale, which is the biggest show of this generation!
We couldn't have been more thrilled to interview a cast memeber of the Riverdale franchise and so much more! Bruce shares about his acting journey and his new look. He expresses to new actors how important it is to believe in yourself, to be logical and kind to others.
Bruce opens up about the loss of Riverdale's star Luke Perry and how most of his scenes were with the beloved artist.
You can see Blain in roles on "The Returned", "Supernatural" (TV Series)
Coach Phil Evans / Dwight Charles, "iZombie" (TV Series) as Sonny, "Timeless" (TV Series) as the Plumber, in "Legends of Tomorrow" (TV Series) as Desk Sergeant, "The Good Doctor" (TV Series) as the Bus Driver, "The Magicians" (TV Series) as a Cop 1, "Altered Carbon" (TV Series) as Re-Sleeve Guard, "Once Upon a Time" (TV Series) as Desk Sergeant, "Girlfriends' Guide to Divorce" (TV Series) as the Car Dealer, "Ruby Herring Mysteries": Her Last Breath (TV Movie) as the Police Mechanic, "Christmas Town" (TV Movie) as the Conductor, Far Cry 5 as Casey Fixman, Stolen by My Mother: The Kamiyah Mobley Story (TV Movie) as The Chaplain, "The Impossible" as the American Tourist, "Riverdale" (TV Series) Vic and many more.
Bruce Blain has been a salesman, a bar manager, a managing editor, an entrepreneur, a carpenter, a teacher, but in 2004, while living in Thailand, he became a film, TV, and voice actor. He quickly established himself, booking scores of Films and TV Commercials, most notably working along side Eric Roberts in "The Mark" and Ewan McGregor in "The Impossible" in December of 2010, leading him to the conclusion, finally, that no other career would do.
After a 13 year stay in Southeast Asia, he moved to Vancouver to pursue acting full time. Since arriving there, he has recurred on such TV shows as; Once Upon a Time (9 episodes in Season 7 as The Desk Sergeant), Riverdale (5 episodes and counting as VIC), Supernatural (as Dwight Charles and Coach Phil Evans), along with day player appearances in most of the usual Vancouver shot shows, and such films as Max 2: White House Hero, Leprechaun: Origins, Rampage 2 and 3, and a whole host of Hallmark and Lifetime movies of the week; AND he has been the Campaign Voice for several VO campaigns.
Bruce Blain, is a working actor, and he couldn't be happier. (Oh, and he wrote, produced, directed, and starred in the award winning short film "Mad Santa".)
SIGN UP FOR HIS AUDITIONING 101 ONLINE ACTING CLASS
Reach out to Bruce
https://www.facebook.com/bruce.blain.7
Watch Bruce's work on IMDB!
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4221489/
Credit- Photo on set with stars K.J. Apa and Madelaine Petsch of Riverdale created by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa -
ZYRACK DEAN OSMON is the lead Toronto/Ontario Regional Representative (East Coast) with Ignite Artists.
ZYRACK DEAN OSMON - THE MORE WE TALK ABOUT THE ISSUES THE MORE THE UNIVERSE WILL TAKE CARE OF IT!
"I would like to GIVE BACK to our artists, as much as my very first mentor in the game, Lana Costea of Windsor Ontario to whom I am forever grateful for her guidance." - Zyrack Dean Osmon
Zyrack Dean Osmon has been a performer since a little child. Being mentored under the guidance of Lana Costea, while being instructed for 5 years in cello, voice, choir and acting. Furthering his growth attending high school at Walkerville Collegiate Institute & School of Performing Arts.
Understanding his strong desire for performance, Dean earned an International Fashion contract with MacDonald & Richards Model Management in NYC where he stayed for 6 years. Some of his NY achievements include but not limited to: Working with Robin K. Miller Prods. on a TV Pilot Series called “Gimme A Shot!” He later went on to co-found Full Blaze Records in Queens, NY – where he developed, recorded, and pitched artists to MCI Records. In 2001 Dean won both the NYC Daytime ABC network vocal competition and VH1 network’s “Celebrity Look-a-Like” competition, as Lenny Kravitz.
At the Producer’s Club Theater (Off-Broadway), he landed a role in the production of “Black Man’s Blues” before finally returning home to Canada. Transitioning into film & TV in Toronto, he was able to land a guest star role in the TV Series “Show Me Yours” while continuing his fashion modeling career with NAM Model Management and Giovanni Model Management. You may recognize Dean in Lava Life’s first Canadian National Dating Service Commercial in 2002.
In 2007 Dean moved to Vancouver to further his Film & TV aspirations while training with Linda Darlow before landing roles in a clearly contact commercial and TV series such a Human Target and features such as Tron - Legacy. In 2010 he moved to the agent/management side of his career. Creating and heading up InspirationALL Talent & Modeling Group’s film, TV, commercial, and background Divisions. He worked Briefly with “Top Talent” agency before launching his own talent agency Maijah Lewk of 8 years; along the way Dean fell in love with the development, management and mentoring of talent.
Then in 2020 after taking a break from management to focus on family (something we value very highly at Ignite Artists) he jumped back into his passion and joined the Ignite Team. We are SO happy to have his caring heart and vast industry knowledge on our team!
At Ignite Talent Agency, our mission is to foster lasting relationships with talented artists; managing our artists with compassion and integrity, so they can thrive in the global entertainment industry.
We also strive to include actors with disabilities, those with unique special skills and visible minorities on our roster so that the film industry is proportionally representing everyone from all walks of life.
FOLLOW
http://www.igniteartists.ca/
https://www.instagram.com/ignite_artists/
Machuca Photography -
As soon as we heard Sandi was working on her passion project with Scott Lepp, we had to call her and share her good news with you all.
Independent award-winning filmmaker Sandi Somers is a native of Cape Breton Island who for over two decades has been residing in Alberta. She has worked in Canada and Europe for the past 25 years as a filmmaker, theatre artist, and educator. Sandi's work often revolves around challenges within human nature, discovery of truth, while addressing themes of connection.
Sandi's work has been featured across North America and in festivals worldwide such as The Lesbian International Film Festival in Paris, Los Angeles New Waves, The Melbourne International Film Festival, the St. John's Women's Festival, and The Calgary and Edmonton International Film Festivals. With over 70 films behind her and 40 nominations for her films, Sandi continues to create thought-provoking works in various genres. She creates dance films, music videos, dramas, comedies, video installations and has directed a documentary syndicated TV series. Upcoming projects include directing MUD, a CBC Digital Original series with Seven24 Films and designing the projection and video content for the live theatre production, Making Treaty 7.
Ice Blue (103 mins) with a release date this fall, is her first feature as director/co-producer. This psychological drama delves into themes of secrets and lies when a young 16-year old girl, living on an isolated farm with her father, asks to be reunited with her mother who mysteriously left ten years ago. Ice Blue opened to a sold out house at the Calgary International Film Festival and screened at the LA Femme Film Festival. There she won top honours with Best Feature Director, Ice Blue. Home (25 minutes, writer/director/producer) is a drama about a woman returning home to take care of her ailing and harshly strict parents in the 1950s. The Artistic Taxidermist (5 minutes) is a comedy about a taxidermist who, after discovering the Mona Lisa and fine art, becomes the DaVinci of the taxidermy world.
Sandi is the recent recipient of Alberta's prestigious Legacy Award from the Alberta Foundation for the Arts co-directing the auteur documentary on the pioneers of theatre in Calgary. She is a recipient of Alberta Media Arts Alliance's Spirit of Helen Award for her contributions to Alberta's media arts community and was invited to The Cannes Film Festival's Shorts Corner Program. Sandi is the creator of the revitalized initiative Herland, a workshop and mentorship program for women in film. She was also a finalist for Best Filmmaker in Calgary 2016 and recently received the Dave Kelly Live Force of Nature Award, and has served as current or past board member for the Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers, Emmedia and Fairy Tales Presentation Society where she facilitates the Creative Workshop for the Queer Youth Media Project.
Projects
- Gladiatrix: Crescent Moon (TV Mini-Series) (1 episode) (pre-production)
- The Arena (2021)
2019Realization (TV Series) (2 episodes)
- Lonely People (2019)
- Gaps (2019)
- 2019Hudson (TV Series) (3 episodes)
- Cash Grab (2019)
- Lady Killers (2019)
- Game On (2019)
- 2018/IAll the World's a Stage (Documentary short)
- 2017Ice Blue
Photo by Katherine Calnan -
WE CHATTED WITH SCOTT LEPP, THE FAMOUS CALGARY PRODUCER ABOUT HIS NEW POSITION WITH THE OKOTOKS FILM FESTIVAL AND THE SUCCESS OF HUDSON. HUDSON IS BEING PICKED UP BY AN AMERICAN CHANNEL!
We have been following Mr. Lepp since before our last interview with him about Tribal, Realiztion, Ice Blue and the Heartland.
Scott Lepp worked on Heartland for 11 years and is now the Executive Producer for Hudson on CBC, He is so charming and talented! You can really see his work in Hudson from how strong and how well it flows. As well how much the cast and producers love him on social media. @mslepp.
Scott is working on his next project with Director Sandie Somers (Ice Blue movie Award Winner).
The new CBC series Hudson is based in the world of CBC’s long-running drama Heartland, with new characters alongside familiar faces and locations.
Follow Hudson on CBC
STARRING @madison.cheeatow @_biancaroca@samsogram93 @owencrowshoe@grahamwardle@amber_marshall_farm @alijnewton@allisonlynchmusic@michellemorgan_
CBC Gem
#welcometohudson #cbc #hudsononcbc #scottlepp
Photo by Derek Heisler -
WE ENCOURAGE ANYONE TO JOIN IN ON THE FUN VIRTUALLY!
The Okotoks Film Festival
This year we will be live streaming our Festival from June 11-14, instead of hosting it at the Okotoks Cinemas as usual. A pass gets you access to our entire four day program.
About the Okotoks Film Society
Originally established in March 2016 as the Okotoks Film Festival Society, the Okotoks Film Society changed their name in July 2018 to better represent the increasing scope of their goals and community involvement.
The Society is a group of board directors with the goal of making Okotoks and the surrounding area a viable and attractive place for film creation. They work to educate and connect local filmmakers while providing opportunity for filmmakers and the public alike to take an active part in film culture.
The Okotoks Film Society is also the home of the Okotoks Film Festival and partners with the Okotoks Cinemas to create meaningful film experiences.
Pushing for innovation in both filmmaking and in film watching the Okotoks Film Society is here to answer questions and provide programing to encourage professional development.
About the Okotoks Film Festival
The Festival is a three-day annual international film festival offering programming for all ages including a variety of film screenings, workshops, and galas. This international professional festival is a joy for audience and filmmakers alike. During the Festival we also include networking opportunities for filmmakers and a 48-hour filmmaking competition, an audience favorite.
Filmmaker testimonials
"The team at Okotoks are so welcoming, kind, and hard working - a group of super stars for sure! They put together some valuable panel talks, and provided filmmakers with multiple networking opportunities. The Q&A's after the screenings allowed filmmakers to connect with audiences, and Katie asked some really insightful questions. I will definitely submit to this festival again, and look forward to returning one day!"
– Julia Beney, 2019 – A Girl, A Boy, A Penny and a Very, Very, Very Long Road
"We were honoured to have "Never Been to War" chosen as an Official Selection for the Okotoks Film Festival. Communication is excellent with this festival, and Katie and her team work tirelessly at ensuring filmmakers feel valued, and we had a great time. This is an excellent and growing festival, and I wouldn't hesitate to apply again in the future."
– Cora Selinger, 2018 – Never Been to War
"We have had the privilege of having our animated short films, Raven Steals the Light and Raven Meets the Little Makers, screened over the last two years at Kinder Reels. It's so much fun to attend in person and talk about our work, and then meet the other filmmakers. Katie and her team are awesome!"
– Sharlene Millang, 2018 - Raven Steals the Light
"What a great festival! Very filmmaker focused, with lots of opportunities to network with other filmmakers (filmmaker brunch, podcast panel, Q&A, closing party, etc). The fest was incredibly well organized (which you can't say about a lot of others out there). Communication was great with Katie and her team. They were on the ball every step of the way and never left us in the dark, or an email unanswered. And they do cash prizes! That's not something you see at a lot of festivals these days, but it can really go a long way to helping out up-and-coming filmmakers. Seriously awesome little festival. We had a great time and we hope to be back again someday!"
- Aaron Kurmey, 2018 - Thousand Yard Stare
Lovely, lovely festival filled with international directors and a quality selection from all over the world. The staff was kind and curteous and the atmosphere was professional and fun.
– Giulio Manicardi, 2017 – Like
"Although I could not attend, it was an honor to be selected and to take part of this year's lineup. They were very helpful and easy to communicate with. Thumbs up to all involved!"
- Adam Losurdo, 2017
Thanks to all our sponsors, donors, and the Community Initiatives Program Grant from the Government of Alberta that fund our Festival and keep us running!
Festival Director: Katie Fournell
Katie is our bouncy, fun-loving face of the festival. Katie is a filmmaker herself with a few films under her belt, such as “I Got You a Balloon” and “Be the Hero”. An avid film lover, she was really into the festival scene in Edmonton. When she moved to Okotoks and realized we didn't already have a festival in place she knew she was going to have to do something about that.
Questions about what the festival is? Want to Sponsor or Donate? Have a film you want to know how to submit? E-mail Katie:
[email protected]
Board of Directors
President – Elisa Shigehiro
Vice-President – Brendan Rose
Secretary – Ashley White
Treasurer – Brian Fea
Director – Ian Rose
Director – James Lozinsky
Director – Scott Lepp
Lead Volunteers
Front of House Manager - Patrick Brown
Application Manager - Sue Moore
Programmers
Katie Fournell
[email protected]
Ashley White
[email protected]
Tony Igeb
[email protected]
Festival Passes
Festival Pass: $30
Opening Night Special: $40; gets you a Festival Pass, as well as popcorn delivered to your door courtesy of Okotoks Cinemas! Delivery available for Okotoks residents only.
Are you looking to include our festival beer, the OFFTop, from Hubtown Brewing in your package? Head over to their Website to get the HubTown Opening night package, it includes your pass, popcorn, swag, and OFFTop!! -
You might say that Marie Y. Lemelle is a PR Warrior. She is the founder and CEO of Platinum Star Public Relations, Inc., a woman-owned, minority business enterprise, located in Glendale, California. For more than 20 years, Marie has fearlessly worked in the trenches representing a gamut of clients in the entertainment and sports industries, small businesses, lifestyle brands, and non-profit and for-profit corporations.
Marie Y. Lemelle’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Platinum Star Public Relations, an award-winning, global marketing and communications firm. Services include strategic planning, research, creative development, media planning and buying, community organizing, casting/talent relations, red carpet logistics/VIP publicity, grassroots outreach, event production and management, and media relations.
Platinum Star PR, a certified Small Business Enterprise and Woman-owned Business Enterprise, was established to assist under-served businesses and women business owners to achieve their goals through positive and consistent exposure. Ever evolving, her clients have covered the gamut from boxing to fashion, the entertainment, film, live theater, and music industry and from health and wellness, corporations and to nonprofit organizations that provide services to military veterans and other vulnerable populations. As an entertainment publicist, Marie has increased the star ranking of several actors, producers, directors, writers, musicians, stylist and fashion icons at red carpet events, special events, and beyond. She utilizes her passion and savvy for public relations, community outreach and branding/marketing to assist nonprofits.
Marie has diversified and expanded her company to manage some of the best in the entertainment industry from award-winning directors, writers, actors to singers, songwriters, and musicians. She has taken her company globally through her collaboration with the African Country Sierra Leone and to the next level as a one-stop shop to provide distribution, production and more. Marie is a certified TV/Film producer at Pasadena Media and Foremost Entertainment. She produced the feature film, "Flint Tale," about a family affected by the Flint Water Crisis.
Her entertainment clients include, but not limited to, Century Studios, a recording studio in Jacksonville, Florida; Foremost Entertainment, a film production company founded by Marc Cayce; and Eyedeal Image founded by Giselle Mendoza. Marie is a former member of Women in Film and the Association of Talent Agents.
For her unwavering commitment to empowering and mentoring women, young girls, and the community at large, she has received numerous honors and certificates from elected officials and national organizations such as the National Association of Female Executives Women of Excellence Award for Community Service and the Community Advocate of the Year. Marie was nominated by the San Fernando Valley Business Journal for the 2014, 2019 and 2020 and the Los Angeles Business Journal 2016, 2017 and 2018 Women in Business Award. For nearly 4 years, she wrote a weekly column, "Health Matters" in the Los Angeles Wave Newspaper. Since COVID-19, she is writes a weekly column, "Rx Report" for the Los Angeles Wave Newspaper.
Her community outreach is evidenced by years of civic service as a former commissioner for the City of Glendale’s Commission on the Status of Women and formerly as an appointed State Board Member by then-Speaker Emeritus Karen Bass to the State of California Department of Consumer Affairs Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
Ms. Lemelle earned a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of La Verne. Her Bachelor of Science degree was obtained from Excelsior College. Marie also received a Professional Certificate in Journalism and Public Relations at UCLA. She is a 2008 graduate of the Los Angeles African American Women Public Policy Institute's Public Policy/Leadership Program offered at USC. In 2020, she earned a certificate in Cultural Diversity and Inclusion from the City of West Hollywood.
She is currently working on two books, "I am Not My Illness: Personal Stories of Inspiration and Hope," and "Lights, Camera, Action Plan! How to Survive and Succeed in Hollywood."
How to connect with Marie:
Email: [email protected]
Social media
Instagram: @platinumstarpr
https://www.platinumstarpr.com/
Photo of Marie with Sidney Poitier -
The news hit the world that the horror, Z movie was picked up by Shudder USA! We had to find out more about Luke's role as the character Z who really scared us!
https://www.instagram.com/lmcinematics/
Luke Moore: A hardworking freelance videographer, specializing in cinematography, props and set design. No matter what, we can make it work.
Luke Moore is a set decorator and actor, known for Super Drycleaners (2017), Karma (2016), Sex, Lies & Murder (TV Series), The Shocking Truth (TV Series documentary) (6 episodes) and Z (2019).
Z, a family find themselves terrorized by their eight-year-old son's imaginary friend.
Director: Brandon Christensen
Writers: Brandon Christensen, Colin Minihan
Stars: Keegan Connor Tracy, Jett Klyne, Sean Rogerson and Luke Moore -
NEWFOUNDLAND-CALGARY-ALL OVER CANADA, TRENT MCCLELLAN TALKS ABOUT KEEPING GROUNDED AFTER YOU DO MAKE IN YOUR CAREER! HE WAS A BLAST TO TALK TO AND MUCH LAUGHS WERE HAD.
Trent McClellan is a comedian who has been performing stand-up across Canada for over 14 years. Some of his most notable appearances include sets at the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival, Winnipeg Comedy Festival, St. John’s Exit Realty Comedy Fest, the Moncton HubCap Comedy Fest, the Edmonton Comedy Festival, and the YYC Calgary Comedy Festival. Trent has also appeared on CBC’s The Debaters, defended “February” by Lisa Moore on CBC Canada Reads, and has opened for acts such as Bob Saget and Gerry Dee. In 2016, Trent was a guest writer and performer on This Hour Has 22 Minutes and officially joined the show for its 25th season in 2017/2018.
He has toured extensively across Canada, both as a headlining performer and as an opening act for Gerry Dee, and has performed at the Just for Laughs Festival, the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, the Halifax Comedy Festival and other comedy festivals. He performed a half-hour special for The Comedy Network's Comedy Now! series in 2008, and has appeared on CBC Radio's series The Debaters.
He defended Lisa Moore's novel February in the 2013 edition of Canada Reads. The novel won the competition.
Originally aired on The Generators Podcast
Anyone who works or makes a difference is actually creating. They create a product or a feeling in others that is tangible. Each week comedian Trent McClellan talks with those who generate any kind of creative work in an attempt to explore what motivates them. You’ll get an inside peek at the thought and creative process of some of the most talented folks around. You’ll laugh and learn insight into the minds of makers. These conversations are raw and genuine as all great ones should be. Enjoy The Generators!
We were a part of the taping of a pilot for Trent (because he’s a big deal te he) excited to see where it goes for him with Jake Hirsh Entertainment.
https://trentscomedy.com/
Originally from Corner Brook, Newfoundland, Trent McClellan is a stand-up comedian, writer, podcaster and actor known for his approachable, candid and effortless observational comedy.
Booking Inquiries
Trent McClellan's schedule is managed by the Jake Hirsch Entertainment Group. For booking inquiries please email [email protected]. -
Quinn Teechma star of February's Dog Shares Her Mental Health Experience with Patrick of I'm Here With Mag
Quinn shares about her experience with mental health, the growth of the @februarysdog mental health platform that she’s building with creator @pauljchinook
Stay tuned on February's Dog FB for her Let's Talk Mental Health show, Wednesdays at 5 MDT.
februarysdogmovie.com
https://www.facebook.com/februarysdog/
#canadianmentalhealthassociation #canadianmentalhealth #quinnteechma #imherewithmag #februarysdog
Interview by Patrick Saulnier -
February’s Dog BREAKING THE STIGMA OF MENTAL ILLNESS IN ALBERTA
PAUL J. CHINOOK IS BREAKING THE STIGMA OF MENTAL HEALTH AND BRINGING AWARENESS FOR ALBERTA OIL FIELD WORKERS AND PEOPLE IN CANADA
What did you like most about playing Dale Walters in February’s Dog?
Dale is an extremely like able character. He’s very charismatic, charming, and easy going. There are layers to his character that the audience get exposed too as the story plays through. At first glance, it appears as though he doesn’t have a care in the world. That he’s just kind of like a big friendly dog eager to make everyone happy like he’s fed off smiles and laughter. We catch glimpses of the depth of thought he is capable of at the rare moment when he lets his guard down.
“Hopefully what we can do is draw attention to mental health issues and draw attention to the resources and get people talking about these issues.” - Chinook
February's Dog takes place in Alberta in modern time and is set against the beautiful and iconic back drop of the Canadian Rocky Mountains under a shroud of winter snow. It follows two uniquely different, yet typical men – Dale Walters (played by Paul J. Chinook) is a very charismatic and lighthearted man that works hard to enjoy a life of adventure and excitement. His work partner, Nigel Loggins, (played by Kevin Davey) is a military veteran who is quiet and calculated in his approach towards life. The film opens with these two men as they are finishing up work on a Friday. They get called into the office at the end of the day and are laid off by their boss Arthur Newbury, (played by Doug Wilson) a very clean cut, to the point, middle aged manager. Arthur is a friend and suggests that this is just temporary, and that they will be back at work in three months – just as soon as market oil prices recover. Dale and Nigel interpret this “break” quite differently and act accordingly. Ultimately though, both men find themselves in a merciless battle against desperation and depression. How will they get out? Or will they? The story is a hard one but one that needs to be told as it is far too common silent battle in today’s society.
The film stars Paul J. Chinook, Quinn Teechma, Kevin Davey, Will Webster, Sarah Wheeldon, Dan McDougall, Doug Wilson, Felipe Paredes and more.
Chinook has been in the Calgary television and film industry as an actor and writer since 2013 and wanted to take that next step.
“It’s really challenging as a Calgary or an Alberta actor to land those auditions, because nine out of 10 the production already has a Vancouver or a LA actor established for that role before you even go in there.” I started writing this story to keep busy and what a topic it was to write about. So many people have gone through this, losing their job in the oil field.”
“It’s got a very strong mental health aspect to it. We watch two of the characters go through some extremely challenging situations and sadly are far too real in Alberta right now with losing work and struggling and bills piling up.”
He has written five screenplay ideas and this is the first one that went into the production.
“It’s kind of all been surreal,” shares Chinook. - Regina Leader Post
Starring and created by Paul J. Chinook as (Dale Walters Writer/Producer), also starring Kevin Davey as Nigel Loggins, Quinn Teechma as Emily Walters, Doug Wilson as Arthur Newbury, William Webster as Jedd Wilson, Sarah Wheeldon as Kate Carter, Jill Maria as the Store Clerk, Sheridan Peirens as Tamara, Dan McDougall as Pastor Frank, Felipe Paredes as Jimmy Walters, Scott Dumas as Fertility Doctor, Stephanie Wilson as Marv’s Diner Waitress and Marianne Hutchings as Nurse Jean.
Production: Jose Luis Gonzalez Cinematographer, Directed by Candace Gonzalez and LnC STYLE as the 1st AD. Paul De Toit Schreve Sound Technician, Camera Operator Derek Wilder and Mardell Chinook Executive Producer. Editor Geordy Day.
INTERVIEW BY HOST QUINN TEECHMA
https://www.facebook.com/februarysdog/
WATCH THE FACEBOOK INTERVIEW ON FEBRUARY'S DOG SOCIAL MEDIA -
Brad Krauza, Publisher & Promoter GonzoOkanagan.com talks about how he's dealing with life during COVID-19 in Kelowna.
Brad is also the Producer of Gonzo Okanagan Music Industry Golf Tournament & Festival Musician.
GONZO OKANAGAN
GO! Music, Film, Arts & Entertainment, Technology, Travel, Sports, Culture… LIFE!
We are devoted to supporting the local arts & entertainment scene in the Thompson/Okanagan region of British Columbia, Canada. Written subjectively, with an up-close and personal flare, we strive to promote the best that Canada has to offer by putting our local artists, musicians, actors, comedians, writers, and cultural advocates first. We are also dedicated to the support and perpetuation of music education, film organizations, literature, and to supporting non-profits, businesses and venues. At Gonzo Okanagan, we believe that the world can be transformed through the arts, whether through music, on a canvass, or through the written word, the arts has a power to bring people and communities closer together, creating happiness, love, healing and even peace. We are inspired to make a difference. Keep the arts alive and GO a little Gonzo!
This upcoming special edition magazine will include a feature on the Gonzo Okanagan Golf Tournament and Festival, interviews with Canadian musicians, and an important piece on local musicians, venues, and promoters and how they contribute to the community. Our special edition features a tribute to Canadian icon Gord Downie, a true example of how music can change lives. This issue will also contain articles on wineries and restaurants in the Okanagan, updates about local sports teams, and local news as well as many other great stories from our amazing writers and special guest contributors.
Gonzo Okanagan is not only one of the best Online Arts & Entertainment sources in the Thompson/Okanagan, but also offers very competitively priced Web Design & Hosting Plans and Marketing & Search Engine Optimization Packages with a direct and personal appeal designed to help your business grow! -
We did a fun chat on instagram live with Britt in Vancity, to talk all about social media and how she got to be a famous social media influencer!
Britt is a Social Media Expert who specializes in content creation, brand development and digital marketing. She provides a full service marketing agency handling all aspects of planning to implementation. Working with brands from all over the world, she is an entrepreneur who helps business owners monetize their online marketing efforts. Britt has become a micro influencer on Instagram, using the platform to build a huge audience and promote her work in an amazing way. Now she has fans from all over the world following her. She leverages the power of Instagram Stories speaking and connecting with people through her thought provoking captions. Britt is truly passionate about making brands grow online by improving their social media presence in an inspiring way. Over the years, she has also worked with media and entertainment brands to create compelling content and to help them connect with their audience through engaging social content.
Follow her and get inspired by what she has to say.
Britt is an influencer who uses her lifestyle curating brand to specialize in brand ambassador activations, sponsorships, social media and public relations. Her social media content consists of creating and experiencing some of the best events all over North America. She is compared to Shabar Ewing as the “go-to” for Vancouver. Her followers come to her for authenticity, vulnerability and thought-provoking content.
I’ve officially partnered up with @birchandfogcanada on a 30 day journey to learn and educate myself about cannabis. My goal is to educate you all how cannabis can help you, fit into your lifestyle and how it can possibly help me. Anyone who knows me knows that I never had any interest in the topic but with legalization commencing on October 17th, I thought why not see what cannabis is really about?! Stay tuned for my journey and please tell me, do you use cannabis? If you do, how does it fit into your lifestyle? Use my promo code binvancity for a discount.
Britt supports two charities on the regular! We asked her how and why she supports...
@bigsistersbclm - Big sisters was because I found myself homeless at a young age and I would have benefited from having a mentor. So I joined to give back in that regard which is more one on one my little is trans as well!
One of the only trans matches!
@covenanthousebc - With Covenant House kinda same thing with being homeless I wanted to be able to help the teens and also mentor with the trans homeless youth there as well.
https://www.instagram.com/brittinvancity/ - もっと表示する
