AMPD Testimonials

Most training is foundational for an artist and York was no exception. At York I began to develop both my creative practice as well as my voice as an artist. I'm grateful for the four years of exploration. I also think theatre school is a great training ground for long hours, and a rigid schedule. That was helpful when I left and started booking work.

Nadine Bhabha (BFA ‘16)
Actor, Heated Rivalry (2025)
Canadian Screen Award nominee

My time at York and the opportunity to experience a plethora of different theatre classes helped to cultivate respect and understanding about all the hard work that occurs behind the scenes. At AMPD, I had classes about costuming, lighting, and carpentry, and each class taught me new skills and gave me a new appreciation for the people who have made careers out of these skills.

Ellise Roth (BFA ’22)
Actor (Theatre and Film)  

My time at York gave me the foundation I needed to step into professional design work. I was encouraged to develop my artistic voice and translate that into my designs, and many of the artists I met there remain collaborators to this day.

Michelle Tracey (BFA Theatre ’13)
Award-winning costume & set designer

At AMPD, I learned how essential it is to stay organized, manage my time and approach each project with a clear method for breaking down a script. Acting taught me the importance of storytelling and understanding an audience.

Asha James (BFA Theatre, ’18)
Dora Award winning actor

York has given me incredible opportunities to explore a wide range of theatre practices. This year, I’m taking classes in directing, playwriting, performing, devising and theatre studies. I truly feel that AMPD is preparing me for a successful, fulfilling career as an employable artist. One of the most exciting experiences I've had was participating in the student-run playGround Festival.

Charlie VanStone

Third-year Theatre Student

I was about to accept my offer to NYU Tisch's acting conservatory (my former dream school) when my guidance counselor suggested applying to York University. The flexibility and autonomy that York's Theatre program offers are unparalleled! I've had opportunities to learn about producing, screen acting, playwriting and devised theatre, truly becoming a multidisciplinary artist. The moment I came for an on-campus visit, I had an instinctual feeling that York was the right place for me. Four years later, I can confirm that it's true.

Natasha Advani Thangkhiew

Current Student, Theatre

When looking at Canadian university Theatre programs, I was most impressed by York’s. There was something about the structure of the program, the choices to specialize, and of course, access to Toronto - a lively theatre city.  My program encouraged me to get to know myself as a person as well as an actor/performer/English Lit nerd. Since graduating from York, I’ve been working at Mass Culture, where I do my part to support a thriving research infrastructure for the Canadian arts sector.”

Kathryn Geersema

Alumna, Theatre

International Alumna - Singapore

What I valued most during my time in York’s undergraduate and graduate Theatre programs was the excellent mentorship I received from faculty who deeply shaped my path as a scholar, and the opportunity to engage with advanced courses in theatre and drama that challenged me to think critically and creatively about the field.

Benjamin Gillespie, PhD (BA ’09, MA ’10)

Assistant Professor of Theatre History and Performance Studies
Santa Clara University

What I valued most about my time at AMPD was the culture with its vibrant passion for theatre arts coupled with inclusivity––where different voices and perspectives were not just welcomed but celebrated. The training—equal parts theory and hands-on practice—pushed me to think deeper, grapple with time management, and trust my instincts. My professors encouraged me to see storytelling as both an artistic calling and a responsibility, reminding me of the power it can hold. That foundation has guided my career and my creative path, shaping the kind of work I strive to make: authentic, inclusive, and transformative.

Stafford Arima (BA ’92)

Artistic Director, Theatre Calgary