THREE LEGGED DOG PRODUCTIONS

A Non-Profit Performing Arts Society offering Musical theatre and performance opportunities

to the adult community of the Comox Valley, since 2016.

The 9 to 5 Team

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Valerie Canon - Director

Valerie is originally from Oklahoma in United States and holds a BFA from the University of Oklahoma. Her directing credits include: Violet, Addams Family the Musical, Heathers, The Drowsy Chaperone, Children of Eden, Oklahoma, Guys and Dolls, Chicago, Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson, and Lizzie the Musicals. Mrs. Canon is a proud founding member and the Musical Theatre Director for Next Generation Performing Arts Camp based in Lawton, Oklahoma and also formerly the president of Minds Eye Theatre Company in Louisville, Kentucky. Valerie worked with many companies directing and choreographing many shows in the Kentuckiana area for Clarksville Little Theatre, Pandora Productions, Center Stage, The Chicken Coop, Wayward Actors Company, and Mind’s Eye Theatre Company. She currently teaches ballet for the Comox Community Center. She's honored to lead this production for Three Legged Dog and looks forward to creating more art in the Comox Valley.

Paul Gerritsen - Choreographer

Paul began his formal training at Decidedly Jazz Danceworks in Calgary and later expanded his performance foundation by graduating from the Canadian College of Performing Arts.
Paul’s career has taken him across the globe. He performed internationally with Norwegian Cruise Lines and, after relocating to Europe, appeared in Sleeping Beauty at the historic King’s Theatre in Glasgow, Scotland. One of his most memorable roles was joining Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 20th Anniversary cast of Starlight Express in Germany, where he performed the high-energy musical—on roller skates—eight times a week for more than two years!
Paul spent the majority of his professional career in Berlin, performing in major musical theatre productions including West Side Story, Fiddler on the Roof, My Fair Lady, and Kiss Me, Kate. He also danced in numerous operas and operettas at the renowned Komische Oper Berlin, where he served as Dance Captain. Beyond theatre, his work spans industrials, film, television, and award shows.
Now calling the beautiful Comox Valley home, Paul teaches at Pantuso Dance Studio under the direction of Lindsay Sterk. He is thrilled and honoured to be choreographing 3LDP’s production of 9 to 5!

Kolya Kowalchuk - Music Director

Kolya Kowalchuk is an accomplished music educator, performer, and conductor with a lifelong passion for musical theatre and ensemble performance. He brings decades of experience to the pit orchestra of 9 to 5.
Kolya grew up on Quadra Island, where his love for musical theatre began early as he played in pit orchestras for Shoreline Musical Theatre’s productions of Li’l Abner, Anything Goes, and Hello, Dolly! While living in Montreal, he was an active member of the McGill Savoy Theatre Society, performing as a percussion for numerous Gilbert and Sullivan operettas including The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, and Iolanthe, before stepping into the role of musical director for Trial by Jury. He also performed as a drummer with the West Island Theatre Society for their productions of Legally Blonde and Gypsy.
Kolya returned to Campbell River in 2013 and continues to be deeply involved in community music-making. He conducted the Campbell River Community Band for eight years, played percussion for Carihi Secondary’s production of The Addams Family, and directed the pit orchestra for Carihi’s James and the Giant Peach. He currently teaches band and guitar at École Phoenix Middle School where he shares his passion for music and performance with the next generation of musicians.
Kolya holds two Bachelor’s degrees from McGill University—one in Education and the other in Music—and a Master’s degree in Music Curriculum and Instruction from Acadia University.

Wendy Nixon Stothert - Vocal Director

Wendy Nixon Stothert, B.Ed, M.EdL, was hooked on music from an early age. She taught K-12 Music in the Comox Valley school district for 17 years and has now shifted to self-employment as a choral director, workshop facilitator, performer, and choral arranger. She currently directs 5 local adult community choirs that sing a wide variety of repertoire, including the 3 Just in Time Choirs contemporary ensembles, the Canadian Military Wives Choir Comox, and the Berwick Choir. Wendy also leads the CV Pop-Up Choir, facilitates the Resonation Community Song Circles, and teaches collaborative vocal improvisation. As a performer, Wendy sings and plays as a soloist and with the 80’s cover band, Ricochet!. She enjoys serving on the boards of the Sid Williams Theatre Society and DIG FM, Community-powered radio in the Comox Valley. Wendy runs Choral Valley, a business that provides singing-related Workshops and Events in the Comox Valley. http://www.choralvalley.ca

Rosie Smith - Producer / Assistant Stage Manager / Props Lead

Rosie is one of the founding members of Three Legged Dog Productions and has been involved, in some capacity, with every production since the beginning. Her favourite place to watch a show is from the wings on stage left. She is constantly impressed by the talent found in the Comox Valley from set builders to triple threats. She would like to thank her partner, Steve Boothman, for always being by her side through these years of musical theatre.

Stephen Donaghy - Producer / Lighting Designer

Stephen is a highly skilled and versatile lighting designer and technician with extensive experience in the world of theatre. With a career spanning numerous years and provinces, he has honed his craft across a variety of roles, including Assistant Technical Director (ATD), designer, set builder, production manager, and stage manager. His broad skill set has made him a cornerstone of many productions, bringing a unique blend of technical expertise and creative vision to every project he undertakes. Originating in Ontario, Stephen has contributed to countless productions, from small-scale high school performances to large, complex professional shows, including helping 3LDP with Cabaret, Mamma Mia, and Fun Home. Stephen’s expertise in lighting design is complemented by a deep understanding of all technical aspects of theatre production. Stephen is excited to bring 9 to 5: The Musical to life alongside this talented cast and crew!

Kendahl Cardinal - Violet

Kendahl is delighted to “tumble out of bed” and return to the stage with 3DLP. With more than 20 years of acting experience, she holds a BAH in Drama from Queen’s University. She previously “poured herself a cup of ambition” on the Sid Williams stage last spring as Donna in Mamma Mia. Kendahl has enjoyed bringing Violet to life “around here” alongside such a dedicated and talented Cast & Crew. Endless thanks to Jhod, London, and Waverly for their support, which truly “shines like the sun,” and thank you for continuing to support local theatre.

Erin Foster - Doralee

Erin Foster is a Capilano University Musical Theatre graduate who works as an early childhood educator by day, and a theatre artist at night, wearing many hats as a performer, producer, costume designer, and hair & makeup artist. She is the founder of Kitty’s Kabaret, a local burlesque company led by her alter-ego Kitty Glitter, and has performed on stages from Vancouver to New York City.
Her previous 3LDP credits include the Emcee in Cabaret, the Lady of the Lake in Spamalot, the Baker’s Wife in Into the Woods, and Columbia in The Rocky Horror Show. Erin is thrilled to return to the 3LDP stage and can’t wait to bring Dolly Parton’s signature sparkle and sass to life!

Lexy MacGregor - Judy

Lexy is thrilled to be back on stage with Three Legged Dog Productions as Judy in 9 to 5: The Musical. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance from Concordia University and a Master of Education from the University of British Columbia. After a long hiatus, she returned to performing last spring as Sophie in 3LDP’s production of Mamma Mia! By day, Lexy is happily “workin’ 9 to 5” as a teacher with Comox Valley Schools, and in her spare time she loves supporting the 3LDP community both as a performer and as a board member. She is grateful to be part of this creative, collaborative company both on and off the stage. Lexy would like to thank the cast, creative team, and her incredible family for making this all possible. Dreams and plans are in the making!

Colin Richardson - Franklin Hart

Colin is thrilled to be reunited with 3LDP for their production of 9 to 5 as Franklin Hart Jr: Man, Leader, Visionary - at least according to his press office. He and his family resettled to the valley relatively recently, having previously spent nearly twenty years in the UK where he was a regular "enthusiastic amateur" in the Edinburgh and Glasgow theatre scene.

Colin most recently appeared as Harry in 3LDP's production of Mamma Mia!, and has once again been astounded at the incredible things that can come about when you surround yourself with wonderfully, riotously talented people. He is having *far* too much fun, and would like to thank his wonderful wife and goofball kids, all of whom are endlessly patient of his theatrical shenanigans.

Liz Wootton - Roz

Liz Wootton trained at the Manchester Metropolitan School of Theatre and has performed professionally across the UK, showcasing her versatility in a wide range of theatrical genres, from Musical Theatre to Shakespeare to Mask Performance. Whether comedy or drama, Liz’s passion for acting lies in creating a genuine emotional connection with the audience. Most recently, Liz made them cry as Helen Bechdel in 3LDP’s highly acclaimed production of Fun Home, and had them laughing out loud as Rosie in the smash hit Mamma Mia! She can’t wait to find out how you’ll react to her performance as Roz in 9-5.
By day Liz works as a Leadership Consultant in her own company, Human Nature Development, and strives in real life to end the culture of sexist egotistical lying hypocritical bigots in management.

Ross Foster - Joe

Ross Foster is excited to be appearing in 9 to 5 with Three Legged Dog Productions. Since moving to the Comox Valley, he has performed in several productions with the company, including Cabaret, Spamalot, Into the Woods, and The Rocky Horror Show. He has also appeared locally with Courtney Little Theatre in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.
Outside of musical theatre, Ross performs burlesque under the alter ego Rocket Sauce and has spent many years performing in Vancouver’s theatre and burlesque scenes. He loves hosting shows and bringing live music into his work whenever possible, whether as a performer, emcee, or creative collaborator.

Alex Schwalm - Dwayne / Ensemble

This is Alex's 2nd show with 3LDP and his 6th show here at the Sid Williams Theatre. He was most recently in the Sleeping Beauty Panto as The Dame (Nanny Hugswell), and in numerous other shows since 2023. Alex would like to thank everyone who has helped put this show together, and the community for supporting us. A special thanks goes out to his wife, Leanne, who has been a constant source of love, motivation, and support.

Jessica Wittman - Margaret / Ensemble

This is Jessica’s first musical as an adult, and she is delighted to be stepping into the world of 9 to 5. She recently became curious about getting involved in musical theatre, which led her to the role of Margaret. While she is new to singing on stage, she has performed before—it’s just been a while!
For the last 20+ years, Jessica has focused on teaching adult dance and fitness programs. She has created a wide range of choreography for these formats, and the fun times and connection in the studio have been endless.
She especially wants to thank Leanne Zdebiak-Eni and the Studio IPF platform for the space where she has been able to master her craft and for inspiring her to take on this exciting new adventure. Huge thanks to Three Legged Dog Productions for this opportunity.

Steve Boothman - Tinsworthy / Ensemble

Steve found his love of theatre through the love of his theatre producing partner, Rosie Smith. His first show was thirteen years ago when Rosie said “sure, try out for a towns folk or maybe a tree in the back row”. This is his seventh show with Three Legged Dog. And he is still having fun.
Steve has always felt welcomed and had so much fun participating in theatre in the Comox Valley. He would like to thank Wendy Nixon Stothert, Carrie Lemke, and Carol Anne Parkinson for helping him find his voice, Danette Bell for helping him find his dancing feet and Kymme Patrick for helping him deliver a line. Thanks of course to Rosie for getting him to try.

Tim Petkau - Bob / Ensemble

Tim Petkau is thrilled to return to the stage after a multi-year hiatus. His previous credits include The Music Man (Oliver Hix), Gilbert and Sullivan operettas, Mary Poppins, as well as German and Italian opera. Tim's experience in large and small vocal ensembles covers everything from Scarlatti to Sting. These days Tim focuses more on his roles of accompanist for Discovery Singers in Campbell River and "Dad." In addition to his regular "9 to 5," Tim dabbles in breakdance, skateboarding, and tenor sax - though not at the same time. In this debut appearance with 3LDP, Tim is honoured and grateful to be performing alongside an incredibly talented and hardworking cast.

Kate Morrison - Ensemble

A founding member of Three Legged Dog Productions, Kate has been actively involved in our local arts community for many years. Kate has previously graced the Sid Williams Theatre stage as Janet van de Graaff in The Drowsy Chaperone, Sarah Brown in Guys and Dolls, Cinderella in Into the Woods, and Fritzie/Fraulein Kost in Cabaret. She could also be seen performing in 3LDP's 2021 Summer Series at the Filberg Lodge and Park. Kate is thrilled to be part of bringing 9 to 5 to the Sid Williams Theatre stage for the first time.

Alyssa Moores - Ensemble

Alyssa Moores is absolutely thrilled to be returning to the stage for her second show with 3LDP in 9 to 5: The Musical! She has had an incredible time singing, dancing, and of course “working” alongside such a talented and supportive cast and crew. Valley audiences may recognize Alyssa from her previous 3LDP performance as Lisa in Mamma Mia!
Offstage, Alyssa serves as the Vice President of the nonprofit children’s theatre company Rainbow Youth Theatre, which has recently announced its upcoming summer production of Mary Poppins Jr — a project she is excited to also be involved in. By day, Alyssa is a teacher in the local school district and a passionate drama educator. A lifelong theatre lover, Alyssa can’t wait to bring more theatre to an already vibrant, thriving, creative, and inclusive valley community.
She hopes you enjoy 9 to 5: The Musical and this high-energy story of friendship, empowerment, and a whole lot of working nine to five.

Coralee Daniels - Maria / Ensemble

Coralee Daniels is thrilled to be part of 9 to 5: The Musical! A passionate performer with a love for storytelling, Coralee has been involved in community theatre both on and off the stage for many years. From lively ensemble numbers to meaningful character roles, she loves the magic that happens when a cast comes together to tell a story.
In addition to performing, Coralee is an active board member with Three Legged Dog, where she enjoys helping productions come to life in any capacity. Whether she’s organizing, supporting fellow artists, or stepping into the spotlight herself, she never fails to bring heart, humour, and a whole lot of energy to every show she’s part of.
When she’s not rehearsing, Coralee can be found working with children, hitting the bowling lanes, or singing along to her favourite show tunes. She is grateful to share the stage with such a talented cast and sends heartfelt thanks to her friends and family for their endless love and support.

Anna Davies - Missy / Ensemble

Anna Davies is beyond excited to be a part of 9 to 5, her first 3LDP Production. She was heavily involved in community theatre during her university years in Missouri, but life took her a different direction. After many countries, many adventures, and many babies, she has come back to the joy that theatre brings. She is thrilled to be a part of this incredibly gifted ensemble.

Recently, she played the part of Robbie Hart in The Wedding Singer : The Musical while living in Squamish. Years prior, she has been in the Ensemble in Oklahoma!, Cinderella, & Once On This Island.

She would like to thank her four daughters for being willing to share her for rehearsals and being keen to listen to 9 to 5 on repeat throughout the house. She would also like to thank her husband for being so supportive.

Anika Plitt - Josh / Ensemble

Anika is excited to put their theatre hat back on after a 5-year hiatus from the stage. They hold a Bachelor of Arts with a Drama Major from the University of Alberta, and have been seen in such productions as Bring it On: The Musical and The Great Gatsby. Anika is incredibly psyched to be a part of 9 to 5 and hopes you have as much fun watching as they’ve had doing it.

Rachel Bood - Ensemble

Rachel Bood is a musical theatre enthusiast who will happily burst into choreography at any given moment. A lifelong lover of dance (and jazz hands), she has appeared in multiple 3LDP productions, including Cabaret and Mamma Mia! — where she fully embraced the joy of ABBA and false eyelashes. When not onstage, Rachel can usually be found rehearsing in her head, humming show tunes, or resisting the urge to make everyday life a full-out production number.

Jillian Christison - Ensemble

Jillian’s love of the performing arts has been shaped by decades of training across multiple dance styles, including tap, jazz, ballet, modern, hip hop, and flamenco. Earlier in her career, she was fortunate to perform internationally — from dancing on cruise ships in the Mediterranean, to choreographing cabaret shows in Japan, to working professionally with the BC Lions as both a cheerleader and assistant choreographer. After stepping away from the stage to focus on family life, Jillian recently returned to performing, with Three Legged Dog Theatre’s production of Cabaret marking her first show back. Her stage credits include Anything Goes, A Chorus Line, Cabaret, and most recently Mamma Mia!. Jillian is delighted to once again share the stage with such a talented cast and hopes you enjoy the show!

Tristan Poelzer - Ensemble

Tristan is very excited to be a part of her second show with 3LDP! Having just played Joan in 3LDP's Fun Home, Tristan is grateful to be back in her comfort zone of dance ensemble! Be sure to catch her this summer at the Village Theatre in Qualicum Beach, where she is portraying Juliet in "Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet)." She is thrilled to share the stage with such a talented cast and hopes you enjoy 9-5!

Chelsea McCannel-Keene - Ensemble

Growing up, Chelsea was immersed in our valley’s Arts community, born and raised on Kʼómoks Ancestral lands. She now operates Puddleduck Early Learning Society and works on Comox Valley School’s Board of Education as well. Before returning to the valley, Chelsea first studied at The Canadian College of Performing Arts and later at The University of Victoria. Following graduation, travel and one’s adventurous twenties, Chelsea settled with her husband, their children and their giant dog ‘Dumptruck’ in Royston.

Outside work and family time, Chelsea serves on a number of nonprofit boards and spent years with Three Legged Dog Productions Society as well! Her recent adventures in Theatre include portrayals of Penny Pingleton (Hairspray) and Miss Honey (Matilda) in Qualicum, as well as Magenta (The Rocky Horror Show), Simon Zealotes (JCS) and most recently in the Ensemble of Mamma Mia! with 3LDP. Though her days stretch far beyond 9 to 5, Chelsea is grateful to have truly found a labour of love, both in work and in play! She is delighted to be part of this dynamic company, and to share with you a story of tenacity, fierce friendship and the power of people to overcome and ‘Change It’!