It felt like coming home. When Barbara (she/her) returned to the stage a few years ago after a long hiatus, it sparked a renewed passion for acting. It was in those quiet moments backstage waiting for her cue that she remembered the magic of the theatre and how much she loved being an actor.
That performance motivated Barbara to return to the world of acting. Most recently, she booked a principal role in a Lifetime Network movie of the week, scheduled for release later this summer. She’s also been active in her community, contributing to the development of young filmmakers by appearing in several of their films. On stage, Barbara has appeared in the Magnus Theatre Short Play Festival for four years running. During the pandemic, she also took part in a number of online performances and readings. Barbara is in acting class regularly when she’s not working, refreshing and further developing her skills, and frequently works one on one with acting coaches. She believes progressing as an actor never stops. Whether in class, in the rehearsal room, on set or on stage, there is always opportunity for growth.
Barbara brings intelligence, maturity, creativity, compassion, and general good nature to all her work. But more than that, she brings a spark and strength of spirit that draws audiences in.
So what happened in those hiatus years? Barbara’s early work as an actor in her twenties and thirties was primarily in regional theatre. But life, as it often does, took her in a different direction. Barbara became an award-winning broadcast journalist, working as host, producer, editor, and documentary maker for CBC Network Radio. In radio, she learned to “write the way people talk”, bringing a deep understanding to the honest delivery of dialogue. Her creativity shone in her work, resulting in several international awards for her documentaries.
After leaving the CBC, Barbara launched her own business focused on workplace learning, conflict resolution, leadership, and meeting facilitation – each requiring its own unique type of performance. This work has instilled a strong belief in the importance of working collaboratively, supporting and making space for her co-creators.
On a personal note: Two children, three step kids, and eight grandchildren bring her constant joy and help keep her young. And she’s grateful to have found a life partner who makes her laugh every day and lets her know she is loved.