Our History

History

Kelowna Actors Studio Inc. (KAS) was formed in May of 2003 to: produce vibrant, exciting presentations of the worlds best loved Broadway productions, present fun, challenging and enriching learning experiences for students of all ages, become the premiere forerunner and prime example of a high quality theatre company and enrich the cultural landscape of the Okanagan valley.

The studio located at 1379 Ellis Street (across from the Kelowna Public Library) offers an approximately 11,000 square feet of space divided into four main areas; 190-seat dinner theatre, mirrored rehearsal/dance studio, set and props construction/storage; costume workshop/storage; kitchen, licensed bar and a general office area.

KAS positions itself in the local cultural scene as a comprehensive home for the theatre arts, offering educational, volunteer and performance opportunities for children and adults in all aspects of a theatre production.

KAS’s mission statement, “Providing quality education, entertainment and enrichment for all ages through the performing arts” is showcased by their strong contribution to the Kelowna Cultural District. Over the past 7 years, Actors Studio has successfully produced 37 major productions, grown to accommodate over 150 students a semester and with the acquisition of the Greenroom Restaurant, have made the block a local ‘hotspot’ for fun and entertainment.

Founding Owners

Randy Leslie, Artistic Director / Producer

Randy has over 120 directorial credits in Toronto, Ottawa and Kelowna. He was the Director of Programming and Marketing for the St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts in Toronto for 10 years and the founder and Artistic Director/Executive Director of City Centre Theatre Productions Inc. also in Toronto. Randy held the original position of Executive Director for the Rotary Centre of the Arts, directed, produced, and starred in various local productions and held positions on various local cultural boards before focusing 100% of his attention to KAS. Randy was the recipient of the first ever Okanagan Angel Award for his contribution to the local arts scene and recently received a civic award for Honour in the Arts.

Nathan Flavel, General Manager/Executive Producer

Nathan holds a very diversified skill set. He has produced over 500 promotions, events and campaigns in the local market ranging from fundraisers to performances. Nate was the Network Promotions Manager for 19 radio stations across Alberta and the Promotions Manager for local media Sun FM and The Bullet. Nate also exhibits strong strengths in graphic and web design as well as a proven track record as a competent sales representative. Nate’s passion for business and marketing is second only to his love of the performance and set and decor design. Nate was the recipient of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Young Entrepreneur Of the Year award for his his work with Kelowna Actors Studio.