Creative Essays Exhibition

The exhibition is part of the Grant Burnyeat Student Series, supported by longtime theatre supporter and former Arts Club board member Justice Grant Burnyeat.

Karen Chong—scholarship recipient
I am a grade 10 student at Killarney Secondary. I love movies! However, my first love will always have to be musicals. When I was turning eight, Descendants came out on Disney Channel. I loved everything about it and immediately became obsessed with musicals leading me to Wicked (My favourite musical!!!!!). Theatre is something that I never thought I would be able to be a part of, but I am so glad that I am. Outside of theatre, I love the outdoors, especially the ocean, going on hikes, and running! I also love to read! I just finished this book called Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. It is such a beautiful read, and I highly recommend you read it! In my spare time, I enjoy hanging out with my friends, baking, and anxiously wait for summer. I can't wait for summer!!
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Alex Macaulay—scholarship recipient
Hi, my name is Alex and I’m from Killarney! I have been apart of Killarney Mainstage since grade 8 and am so glad I made that choice. I have gained so much knowledge thanks to theatre and I will forever be grateful for it. I have always loved theatre and the arts. Some of my favourite theatre performances are Beetlejuice, Chorus Line, and The Sound of Music. Thanks to Ms. Mattock and Mr. Rochetta not only have I gotten to see these musicals, but thanks to the experiences they have offered us drama kids, I have made a family who I will forever cherish. Thank you for everything you have created and will continue to do. You have greatly impacted so many kids lives for the better. Besides theatre, I enjoy art such as painting, drawing, and crocheting. I have my own business where I make so many different creations. With this grant I plan to apply to Emily Carr University and become an artist, possibly animating movies in the future. After that I will travel the world and maybe even make my art permanent on peoples’ skin. I love the outdoors and music as well has history, especially true crime history. Overall, I’m excited for what my future has in store for me and I can’t thank enough the people who have helped along the way.
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Maya Schoof—scholarship recipient
I am a grade 12 student currently attending Kitsilano Secondary School. I have been involved in theatre throughout my time in high school as an actress, costume and set designer, director, writer and producer. Ever since I moved to Vancouver, I have immersed myself in the diverse and lively theatre culture here. I enjoy attending plays, musicals and improv performances. This year, I also premiered my first original play at the Kitsilano Theatre company. In September, I will be moving to France to study film production and animation. I have always wanted to see the world and embrace different cultures and tell thought provoking and entertaining stories. Thank you to my family and friends for supporting me, and Sangster and Mr. Parker for giving me so many opportunities in theatre throughout high school.
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