Research Funding Generously Provided by the Future Focus Grant

THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING IN OUR RESEARCH

MISSION STATEMENT 

HISTORY

Our goal is to evaluate what the impact of the closures of all Costume and Props technical specific training programs in Alberta has been on our community. Committed to excellence, innovation, and collaboration, our mission is to empower aspiring screen and stage technicians in Alberta with industry-specific training, fostering a new generation of skilled professionals who will excel in the dynamic world of entertainment production. We are currently in the exploration phase of our work, focused on reaching out to all local Calgarian Theatrical and Film workers. 

With a flourishing film industry, and a passionate theatre arts scene Alberta is at risk of facing a serious labor shortage for skilled technicians. Alberta no longer has technical specific training available for those interested in pursuing careers as Costume/Props workers. The closures began in 2009 when Red Deer College shuttered their Costume Cutting and Construction Diploma program. This was followed by Mount Royal University, who cut their Theatre Arts Diploma in 2013, More recenenty, in 2021 Olds College announced the closure of their Apparel technology program. How have these closures impacted our industry?

RESEARCH TEAM

Gina Bennett
​

Costume Alchemy
Co-Founder/Owner
Professional Textile Artist and
Administrator
CostumeAlchemy.com​

With over 20 years in the Performing Arts, Gina brings a diverse skill set from Alberta's vibrant film and theatre industry. As a Stage Manager and Costumer, she swiftly expanded into lighting, staging, and production management. Gina spent 8 years at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, four as Production Manager, overseeing numerous production and training programs. Co-founding Costume Alchemy in 2019, Gina worked as both the administrator as well as providing the technical expertise in sewing for props and set dec. She is dedicated to advancing education for theatre and film technicians through specialized training programs. Committed to nurturing the next generation, She prioritizes education and mentorship, aiming to uphold excellence in the arts community.

Cathleen Sbrizzi

Canadian Costumer’s Digital
Research Initative
Author/Coordinator/Funding
procurement
QuarterlyCutter.com
Cathleen.Design​

Cathleen is a formally trained Cutter, Designer and Technician. In addition to a decade of industry experience she brings with her credentials which
include a BA from Dalhousie Universities Costume Studies program, Auxillery fashion classes from NSCAD University, the 'Innovative Pattern Cutting' certificate from Central Saint Martins (London Uk), and a certificate in Digital Patternmaking from The New School - Parsons NYC. She is focused on technical innovation and research within the costume production process. Her educational work ranges from workshops for highschool students to University level instruction.

Kim Lennox

Costume Alchemy
Owner/Operators, Instructors,
Professional breakdown artists and
Dyer’s
CostumeAlchemy.com​
​​

Kim Lennox is a highly experienced breakdown artist in the film and theatre industry, boasting a career that began in 2011. Having graduated from Mount Royal College in 2009 with a diploma in Technical Theatre, Kim's thirst for knowledge led her to London, England, where she delved into technical effects for performance at the esteemed University of Arts London.
Since completing her studies in 2011, Kim has been an integral part of the costume departments in Calgary, Alberta, primarily focusing on breakdown work for various bl ockbuster movies such as "Ghostbusters: Afterlife," "Interstellar," "The Revenant," and acclaimed television series like "Fargo," "Hell on Wheels," and "Last of Us." Recognizing the scarcity of formal education in breakdown techniques, Kim and her best friend from Mount Royal College co-founded Costume Alchemy in 2019. Their mission was to impart their knowledge through workshops focused on costumes and props in film and theatre, with a passion for nurturing the next generation of artists. With her extensive industrial knowledge and her ability to connect with others through her love for her craft, she envisions creating a rewarding experience for aspiring artists in the local community. 

Celina Baharally

University of Calgary
Professional Props Master​
​

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​Celina is a Props Master, born and raised in Calgary, Alberta. She graduated from Mount Royal University’s Technical Theatre diploma. She has over 14 years experience as a theatrical prop builder and scenic painter. Since 2021 she has worked at the University of Calgary as the Props Master and Head Scenic Painter for their School of Creative and Performing Arts. Celina is passionate about finding out new and better ways to create props as well as
passing on the knowledge to future prop builders. Celina strives to impact the technical theatre art industry with a commitment to excellent craftsmanship and education.

The Future Focus Grant is administered jointly by the Community Organizations below