Creative Full Time

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In this episode of Creative Full Time, Alison Mullings sits down with Paulina Luciani and Zachary Mansfield to discuss their exciting new venture, Vita Bella Entertainment, and their upcoming production: "The Confidential Musical Theatre Project".

They share the inspiring story behind their company’s creation, emphasizing the importance of positivity, inclusivity, and collaboration within the theatre community. Paulina and Zach open up about their shared passion for creating meaningful artistic spaces and reflect on how the industry has evolved in a post-pandemic world.

Listeners will also get an inside look at the unique concept behind the Confidential Musical Theatre Project, where neither the cast nor the audience knows what show they’re about to experience until the curtain rises!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Vita Bella Entertainment
03:05 Creating a Positive Theatre Environment
05:59 The Confidential Musical Theatre Project
08:45 Casting and Auditioning for the Show
12:00 Production Details and Unique Aspects
14:47 Future Aspirations of Vita Bella Entertainment
17:48 Audience Engagement and Experience
20:48 Final Thoughts and Excitement for the Show

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In this episode of Creative Full Time, Alison Mullings sits down with Julien Franceschin, a rising creative talent to explore their inspiring journey into acting and the entertainment industry. The guest opens up about their cultural background, early artistic influences, and the challenges of balancing education with a growing acting career.

They share highlights from the Toronto Web Fest, upcoming creative projects, and how they’ve developed a unique comedic voice through performance, writing, and music. The conversation also dives into the importance of skill-building, creative exploration, and perseverance as an artist navigating today’s entertainment world.

This episode is packed with insights, laughter, and heartfelt advice for anyone pursuing a creative career in Canada and beyond.

Chapters

00:00 Intro
03:08 Cultural Background and Early Influences
06:00 The Journey into Acting
09:04 Balancing Education and Acting
11:40 Experiences at Toronto Web Fest
14:50 Upcoming Projects and Aspirations
17:51 Creative Process and Character Development
20:34 Advice for Aspiring Actors
23:27 Musical Talents and Creative Exploration
26:24 Reflections on Growth and Future Goals

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In this episode of Creative Full Time, host Alison Mullings dives into a rich conversation with Nadine Charleson about the journey of becoming an actor and the many paths that shape a creative career. We explore the importance of training and education in the arts, how life experiences influence creativity, and what it truly means to grow as an artist.

We also discuss the craft of directing, the unique skill set behind voice acting, and the challenges of navigating the ever-changing entertainment industry. Nadine talks about the value of failure, resilience, and personal evolution, offering practical advice for aspiring actors and creatives who want to make their mark.

If you're interested in theatre school, voice over acting for video games like STAR WARS or are thinking of going into directing this episode is for you! 

Chapters

00:00 The Journey to Acting
02:47 Training and Education in the Arts
06:06 Life Experiences and Their Influence on Creativity
09:08 The Art of Directing and Storytelling
12:02 Voice Acting and Performance Capture
15:01 Navigating the Industry and Creative Constraints
17:57 Embracing Failure and Growth
21:03 Advice for Aspiring Creatives
23:51 Reflections on Life and Career

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In this episode of Creative Full Time, Alison Mullings sits down with Jesse and Ahmed, the creative minds behind King Gilgamesh and the Man of the Wild. Together, they share the story of how their collaboration began, the artistic choices that shaped the production, and the thematic depth woven into their work. We also talk about Ahmed's band and their JUNO NOMINATION! 

The conversation explores how musical fusion enhances storytelling, what it’s like to navigate the rehearsal process as a team, and how Canadian theatre continues to evolve. Jesse and Ahmed also offer inspiring advice for young creators, highlighting the importance of authenticity, resilience, and collaboration in the arts.

GET YOUR TICKETS: https://www.soulpepper.ca/performances/gilgamesh

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
00:43 The Origin Story of a Creative Partnership
03:28 The Evolution of Their Show
06:39 Creative Collaboration and Its Challenges
09:47 The Journey of Touring and Performing
12:55 The Formation of The Band
15:27 Rehearsal Dynamics and Performance Preparation
18:41 Insights on the Canadian Theatre Scene
20:59 Advice for Young Creators
24:07 Thematic Elements of Their Show
26:54 Final Thoughts and Show Promotion

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What does it take to build a career as an actor in today’s competitive industry?

In this episode of Creative Full Time, host Alison Mullings sits down with actor Agape Mngomezulu to talk about his journey from discovering a love for performance in high school to building a career on both stage and screen starting with his current project Romeo Pimp at the King Black Box Theatre (get your tickets now!) 

Agape shares candid insights into his time at Vancouver Film School, and how his training shaped his craft and prepared him for the realities of the industry. He reflects on the differences between working in theatre vs. film, the importance of character development, and how actors can continue to grow their skills over time.

The conversation also explores the business side of acting, including the impact of social media in casting decisions, the value of having a supportive agent, and what resilience looks like when facing rejection and uncertainty. Agape opens up about his personal growth as an artist, lessons learned along the way, and his excitement for future projects.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

- How early experiences shaped Agape’s passion for acting
- The role of professional training at Vancouver Film School
-Key differences between theatre and film performance
- Why character development is central to great acting
- The influence of social media 
- The importance of agents, community, and mentorship in acting
- How resilience and personal growth fuel long-term success

This episode offers practical advice and inspiration for actors at any stage of their career, as well as a behind-the-scenes look at the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry.

Subscribe to Creative Full Time for more conversations with actors, directors, and creatives shaping the Canadian entertainment industry.

Resources & Links

Follow Agape Mngomezulu: [at]off.agape

Follow Creative Full Time on Instagram: [at]creativefulltime

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe AND share your thoughts in the comments: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned on your own creative journey?

Chapters

00:00 The Creative Journey Begins
02:55 Education and Training in the Arts
05:44 Theater vs. Film: A Balancing Act
08:59 Character Development and Challenges
11:44 Advice and Insights from Experience
14:39 Finding the Right Representation
17:48 The Evolution of Artistic Preferences
24:35 Navigating the Transition: Film, TV, and Theater
27:30 Building Chemistry: The Importance of Collaboration
30:30 The Role of Social Media in Casting
36:33 Lessons from the Journey: Advice for Young Creators

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In this episode of Creative Full Time, Alison Mullings speaks with playwright Jesse McQueen about her journey from childhood performances to the development of his powerful play "Romeo Pimp". The play explores the realities of sex trafficking, blending creativity and social impact in a way that challenges both the artist and the audience.

Jesse opens up about the unique challenges of adapting a screenplay into a stage play and the lessons she learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration in writing, the courage it takes to share vulnerable and personal work, and the responsibility artists carry when telling stories that deal with difficult but essential topics.

We also explore the broader role of art in creating awareness and education around issues that are often overlooked. Jesse reflects on how creativity can be a force for change, while also offering insight into her own process as a playwright and storyteller. She shares advice to her younger self about embracing failure, taking risks, and allowing the creative process to unfold without fear.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
- How early creative experiences can shape a lifelong artistic journey
- The challenges of adapting a screenplay for the stage
- Why collaboration is essential in writing and theatre-making
- The role of vulnerability in sharing personal work with an audience
- How theatre can address social issues such as sex trafficking
- Practical advice for creatives on overcoming fear of failure

This episode is an honest and inspiring look at the intersection of personal creativity and social responsibility. Whether you are a playwright, actor, filmmaker, or someone passionate about the power of storytelling, Jesse’s journey offers valuable lessons about courage, resilience, and the impact of art.

Subscribe to Creative Full Time for more in-depth conversations with actors, playwrights, filmmakers, and creatives working in the Canadian entertainment industry.

Resources & Links

Learn more about Jesse McQueen: www.jessemcqueen.com  or on Instagram [at]jessssmcqueen
IMDb: imdb.me/jessemcqueen
Follow Creative Full Time on Instagram: [at]creativefulltime

Chapters
00:00 The Creative Journey Begins
04:48 From Script to Stage: The Birth of Romeo Pimp
09:38 Understanding Romeo Pimping and Its Impact
14:39 The Challenges of Adapting Stories for Theater
19:36 Messages of Hope and Awareness in Art
22:03 The Journey of Collaboration
24:54 Finding a Writing Process
30:14 Advice to Younger Creatives
33:13 Embracing Vulnerability in Creation
38:04 Anticipating the Premiere

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In this episode, Vivien shares her journey through theater and performance, from starring in "Enormity, Girl and the Earthquake in Her Lungs" to navigating the challenges of directing her own work. She opens up about the importance of mentorship, the joy of collaboration, and why strong writing and complex characters are essential to meaningful storytelling.

You’ll hear Vivien’s reflections on:
- The collaborative nature of theater and rehearsals
- Early inspirations and the role of mentorship in acting
- Directing your own work and the lessons learned
- Why good writing and layered characters matter most
- Practical advice for aspiring actors
- How the acting industry is evolving in 2025

This conversation is perfect for actors, theater enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the creative process behind live performance.

Follow Vivien at her website: www.vivienendicottdouglas.ca 
IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1659389/
Instagram: [at]vivien.e.douglas

If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with Canadian actors and storytellers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
00:49 The Role in 'Earthquake in Her Lungs'
05:59 The Script and Its Unique Qualities
11:53 Rehearsal Process and Collaboration
17:53 Early Inspirations and Career Beginnings
23:34 Advice and Personal Growth
29:29 Creating Your Own Work and Directing
31:11 Honoring Grandmothers: A Personal Journey
33:35 The Challenges of Directing and Acting
35:46 Learning Through Collaboration
38:15 The Joy of Directing: Working with Actors
40:25 The Editing Process: A Director's Perspective
42:24 Theater vs. Film: A Passion for Process
48:10 Favorite Projects: Theater and Film Experiences
50:32 Advice to Younger Self: Embracing Authenticity

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In this episode of Creative Full Time, host Alison Mullings sits down with Hools Kay Wyder, the creator of the web series Aced It, to talk about the power of storytelling, representation, and bringing visibility to underrepresented voices in film and television.

Follow Hools on IG [at]hookslaybae 
and follow ACED IT on Tiktok [at]AcedItSeries 
Hools Website: www.hoolskay.com
Link to Tata tata's, help Hools pay to snip the nip!:  https://chuffed.org/project/132934-tata-tatas-help-hools-pay-to-snip-the-nip


🎬 What we cover in this conversation:

The inspiration behind Aced It and why representation matters for the asexual community

The realities of showrunning a web series from concept to production

Challenges faced while navigating the film industry as a creator

How personal storytelling and vulnerability can transform audiences

Lessons Hools has learned as an artist, both creatively and professionally

The importance of building community through authentic stories

This episode is an honest and inspiring look at the creative process and the impact of telling stories that challenge societal norms. Whether you’re a filmmaker, actor, or simply someone passionate about diverse representation in media, you’ll walk away with powerful insights from Hools’s journey.

👉 Subscribe to Creative Full Time for more in-depth conversations with actors, filmmakers, and creatives shaping the Canadian entertainment industry.

✨ Don’t forget to like, share your thoughts in the comments: What stories do you want to see more of in film and TV?

Chapters

00:00 The Birth of Aced It: A Personal Journey
19:58 Navigating the Creative Process: From Concept to Production
39:38 The Challenges of Showrunning: Lessons Learned
57:38 Embracing Vulnerability: The Power of Personal Storytelling

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What does it take to run one of Canada’s most innovative theatre companies?

In this episode of Creative Full Time, host Alison Mullings sits down with Andrea Donaldson, Artistic Director of Nightwood Theatre, to explore her creative journey, the company’s vision, and the upcoming production "Enormity, Girl and the Earthquake in Her Lungs".

🎭 What we cover in this conversation:

Andrea’s path to becoming Artistic Director at Nightwood Theatre

The rehearsal process behind "Enormity, Girl and the Earthquake in Her Lungs" and what makes it unique

Why the audience experience is central to Nightwood’s mission

An inside look at Nightwood’s Write From the Hip program and how it supports artists

Andrea’s personal creative background and influences

A sneak peek into Nightwood Theatre’s upcoming season plans

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about theatre, artistic leadership, or the Canadian performing arts scene. Whether you’re an emerging actor, director, playwright, or simply a theatre lover, Andrea shares valuable insights into the collaborative process, the role of community in storytelling, and how theatre companies adapt to challenges while staying true to their vision.

👉 Subscribe to Creative Full Time for more in-depth conversations with actors, directors, and creatives working in the Canadian entertainment industry. Every episode offers real-world lessons, behind-the-scenes stories, and inspiration for pursuing your own creative path.

📌 Resources & Links

Learn more about Nightwood Theatre: [Nightwood Theatre Website]

Follow Creative Full Time on Instagram: [your link]

Listen on Spotify: [your link]

Watch more episodes: [playlist link]

✨ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe — and let us know in the comments: What do you think makes theatre a powerful storytelling medium today?

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Nightwood Theatre
01:38 The Upcoming Show: Enormity, Girl and the Earthquake in Her Lungs
05:25 Rehearsal Process and Unique Approaches
09:30 Overcoming Challenges During Production
12:39 Adapting the Show for Different Cast Sizes
14:51 Themes and Audience Experience
18:14 Write From the Hip Program Overview
21:58 Andrea's Creative Journey and Background
26:35 Nightwood Theatre's Season Plans
28:17 Show Details and Closing Remarks

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Ever wondered what it really takes to build a career as an actor?
In this episode of Creative Full Time, we sit down with Wyatt Dorion to explore the journey from being a shy child to becoming a determined actor navigating the ups and downs of the film industry.

🎭 What you’ll learn in this episode:
-The importance of persistence and resilience in acting
-How to handle auditions and rejection with confidence
-Why joining the actors’ union matters and what to expect
-The role of acting classes in developing your craft
-Insights from creative projects like the 48-Hour Film Challenge
-The realities of being an actor, from expectations to self-care
-How networking and collaboration open doors in the entertainment industry
-Whether you’re just starting your acting journey or looking to push your career to the next level, this episode is full of practical advice and inspiring lessons.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey Begins: From Shy Kid to Actor
02:54 Navigating the Acting World: Challenges and Triumphs
05:56 The Role of Persistence in Acting
08:50 Finding an Agent and Joining the Union
11:53 Filming Gen V: Behind the Scenes
14:48 The Importance of Collaboration on Set
17:53 Creative Projects: The 48-Hour Film Challenge
20:51 Acting Classes: Learning and Growth
23:50 The Art of Patience in Acting
26:49 Embarrassing Auditions and Learning Experiences
29:54 Dream Roles and Genres
32:46 Keeping the Creative Juice Flowing
35:37 Advice for Aspiring Actors
38:47 The Reality of Being an Actor
41:38 Reflections on College and Personal Growth
44:37 The Importance of Self-Care and Focus
47:45 Closing Thoughts: Embracing the Journey


👉 Subscribe to Creative Full Time for more interviews with actors, filmmakers, and creatives who share their stories, struggles, and strategies for success in the entertainment industry.

📌 Resources & Links

Follow Creative Full Time on Instagram: [at]CreativeFullTime and follow Wyatt [at]wyatt.dorion
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✨ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe — and let us know your biggest takeaway from this episode in the comments!