Canadian Actors' Equity Association to honour Elsa Bolam, Grant Reddick,
Susan E. Wallace and Frank Glenfield

TORONTO, Oct. 25 /CNW/ - "Each year Equity's Council undertakes the ever-challenging task of selecting award recipients from a deep pool of deserving candidates." said Allan Teichman, Equity President. Director Elsa Bolam and performer Grant Reddick will both be presented with Life Membership in Equity in recognition of their extraordinary careers in the performing arts.

Elsa Bolam's (Montreal, Quebec) distinguished career includes her 25-year tenure as founding artistic director of Geordie Theatre and as the director of numerous productions at the Centaur Threatre, both in Montreal. Elsa's vision and leadership made Geordie Theatre an innovator in the field of theatre for young audiences. Grant Reddick (Calgary, Alberta) is a revered actor, teacher, and mentor within his community. He has performed across Canada and the western region for over 50 years.

"It is, in fact, Equity's honour to recognize and celebrate the special individuals who have given so selflessly of their skill and enthusiasm." continued Teichman. "Elsa's work as a director has provided inspiration to almost every English speaking actor in Montreal for over 30 years. Grant's generosity of time and expertise has encouraged several generations of Equity artists in Calgary."

This year's recipient of the Larry McCance Award is former Equity Executive Director Susan E. Wallace (Toronto, Ontario) in recognition of her distinguished service to the Association and its members. Susan was a dedicated and passionate advocate for Equity during her tenure. Among her many accomplishments Susan is most often remembered as a steadfast advocate for member employment and training opportunities and for her leadership during the Blue Man Boycott in 2006.

Dedicated arts supporter and advisor Frank Glenfield (Edmonton, Alberta) is this year's recipient of Honorary Membership in Equity. Frank has made an outstanding contribution to theatre life in the province of Alberta through his dedicated service to the amateur theatre scene inspiring many artists to embark on professional careers in live performance.

The 2010 Stage West - Equity Emerging Theatre Artist Award winner is Bethany Jillard of Toronto, Ontario. This Award and its $2,000 cash prize was initiated in celebration of Equity's silver anniversary in 2001, and recognizes an Equity member of three years or less who has already made a significant contribution and impression as an artist. Bethany is a multitalented performer with considerable energy and drive for artistic exploration. Her work in Toronto and Stratford has already distinguished her as a hard-working and devoted young actor.

Equity is the voice of professional artists working in live performance in English Canada. It is a  national artists' association representing more than 5,500 performers, directors, choreographers, fight directors and stage managers working in theatre, opera and dance from coast to coast.

Awards Presentation: Monday, October 25, 8:00 - 9:15 p.m.

The Hotel Arts, 119 12 Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta

For further information:

Lynn McQueen, Communications Director 416-476-7037 or [email protected]