When you think of remarkable people of impact, many people in Kamloops would put Lori Marchand at the top of their list. And it’s little wonder why! Her accomplishments are many, and the way she builds up people of diverse backgrounds to help them shine in the spotlight is her superpower. We have a wonderful nomination today from James MacDonald, Artistic Director of Western Canada Theatre (WCT) for Lori.
James writes: “Lori was key in building a thriving, sustainable professional theatre organization and community in Kamloops in her 15 years of work at WCT and continues that work in Ottawa as the first Managing Director, Indigenous Theatre at the National Arts Centre. She brings an artistry to her administrative work and great managerial skills to her creative work, while building a team culture of mutual respect and appreciation. But her greatest contribution to the arts is how she has spent a lifetime fostering the work of Indigenous creative artists across Canada and many First Nations, leading the process of bringing Indigenous stories and artists to our stages, and contributing indelibly to the process of reconciliation and decolonization. Without her, theatre in Canada would be a much different place. She also has an enormous heart and is so well-beloved by her friends and wonderful family.”
"Her greatest contribution to the arts is how she has spent a lifetime fostering the work of Indigenous creative artists across Canada and many First Nations."
Lori is simply amazing! In 2018, she was recognized for her commitment to live theatre and the production of Indigenous work that has contributed to the arts and to reconciliation with a Doctor of Letters, honoris causa, from Thompson Rivers University, and in 2021 she was honoured with the Mallory Gilbert Leadership Award for outstanding leadership in Canadian theatre. Although deeply missed in Kamloops, her legacy lives on in this community and we love to see the significant impact she is making in our Nation’s capital. We couldn’t be more proud to honour her!
Lori – you are a remarkable person of impact. As is our team at Amplify Consulting Inc.’s commitment, we will donate $100 to a charity of your choice to further amplify both your remarkable impact and the charity’s.
We were thrilled to amplify Lori Marchand's remarkable impact last week. As a part of AmpliFriday, we donate $100 to a charity of choice for our amplified individual, and Lori chose the Western Canada Theatre (WCT).
Reflecting on her experience, Lori shares,
"My time at WCT enabled many productions that engaged audiences and communities in profound and personal conversations through theatre, leading to greater understanding and compassion and creating moments for unheard stories and experiences to take centre stage."
"Not only did the productions travel across the country, but they also helped establish cultural protocol practices when producing and hosting Indigenous artists and stories. WCT remains committed to this work. And I am sure James and the team at WCT join me in extending our never-ending thanks to the elders and community members from the Secwepemc, the Syilx and the Nlaka'pamux Nations, without whose true generosity this work would not have been possible.”
Western Canada Theatre in Kamloops, BC, is a member of the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres and endeavours to provide the Kamloops regional community with challenging professional live theatre to entertain, educate, enrich, and interact with the cultural mosaic of its community. Productions include a five-play main stage season, a two-play second stage series, and one to two alternative pieces during the season at their Pavilion and Sagebrush Theatres. WCT also offers theatre classes for kids and adults alike. Their second musical of the season, Jesus Christ Superstar, is set to debut on April 4th.
Congratulations again, Lori, on being amplified; we are happy to make a $100 donation to the WCT in your honour.
Nominate someone remarkable. Link in bio.
Amplify Consulting Inc. is a company that helps leaders, and their organizations amplify their impact through communications and stakeholder engagement. #Amplifriday is our passion project we started in 2018 to amplify remarkable people of impact to inspire you, honour them, and support local charities. You can join the #Amplifriday movement as a supporter. Reach out for details.