Independent record label Predominant Studios’ CEO Jacqueline Best is being recognized as one of Canada’s most influential Women Entrepreneurs
Jacqueline Best, Founder, and CEO of Predominant Studios Inc. is recognized as one of Canada’s most influential Women Entrepreneurs. Jacqueline has been announced as a nominee in the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards Women of Influence with the winners being announced this September 2023. In 2022 Jacqueline was the recipient of North America’s Top 40 under 40 awarded in New York. Business Elite Awards’ officials named her “one of North America’s leaders and industry disruptors with the undoubted attitude, quality, potential, desire, determination, and ambition to shape the world of business over the coming decades.” Jacqueline has also written a book entitled “So they say you can’t. SCREW THEM,”
Partner Alister Brodie joined Jacqueline in 2022. Together Jacqueline and Alister offer expertise by assisting musicians in an industry where competition is stiff. Predominant Studio is redefining the next generation of music, signing pop artist Scotty Berg, country artist Jason Kirkness, and Hip Hop Artist Mr. ESQ, to name a few.
Jacqueline and Alister are joined by some of the best in the business that includes the multi-platinum producer and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Chris “The Glove” Taylor, who has collaborated with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. Other members of the team include Rick Noble, Music/Radio Promotion Manager, Lance Bolton, CFO, David Malysheff, Director of Film/Film Scores, and The Real Richie Rich – Producer/Consultant.
Predominant Studio’s new talent includes Pop artist and rising star 15-year-old Scotty Berg, who has left an indelible impression on the Canadian and US music scene. Scotty’s song “Dreams” is hitting charts across the country opening at #44 on the Top AC tracks in the US. With over 500,000 streams of his music and millions of views on TikTok, anticipation is growing for what comes next. Scotty was thrilled to play and walk the red carpet at the 90th Hollywood Christmas parade on a National US TV network. Scotty will be gracing the cover of POPSTAR! Magazine this March 2023.
Country music artist Jason Kirkness has raised the bar with the release of his single “Anywhere The Night Goes” which continues to top the billboard charts as well as his new release “Over My Head” garnering praise from consumers and critics across North America.
According to Jacqueline Best. “We not only provide services to our aligned musicians, but we also provide services to independent artists, assisting them in navigating the complicated music industry and its different processes. Services include US & Canadian, and UK radio promos, music testing & research, marketing, PR, Studio time, legal advice and so much more. As well as safeguarding their best interests, artists must also be protected from music business fraud.”
Predominant Studios has become a hub for many musicians by signing them and/or helping them handle their arrangements with other indie companies. Predominant Studio assists its growing roster of talented musicians by creating fair contracts, music business consultations, and career coaching.
With so much excitement on the horizon for Predominant Studio to share, Jacqueline, her team, and artists are available for interviews upon request.
For more information, interviews, and photos please contact with publicist:
Scotty Berg continues impressive rise in the music industry with top 40 hit on Top AC Radio Chart
‘Dreams’ lands in the #35 spot on Top AC Radio Charts in U.S. this week
Photo credit: Nicole Richard
To say young pop/country star Scotty Berg has had a record year would be an understatement. After years of building popularity through his TikTok and Instagram videos and performances, he signed with his first record label, Predominant Studios, in 2022.
Now, his first release since signing with the label has landed his single, Dreams, at #35 on Top AC Radio Charts.
The rising singer/songwriter has been performing since he was 10 years old and has progressed from busking for passing audiences to performing at SXSW, on national TV for the 90th Hollywood Christmas Parade and gracing the cover of POPSTAR! Magazine (hitting stands in March 2023).
His catalogue of previous releases includes the singles You Don’t Have to Be Alone, an uplifting anti-bullying anthem and No Time to Waste, a song about living life with passion.
Photo credit: Nicole Richard
Scotty has garnered fan and industry accolades alike, winning numerous singing contests and being honoured with nominations for the City of Kelowna’s Civic Award for Teen Honour in the Arts, acknowledging his donations to non-profit organizations through performing at fundraising events.
The natural talent has drawn comparisons to Shawn Mendes – and for good reason. The charismatic young performer has the voice, talent, stage presence, drive and personality to follow the ascent of the fellow Canadian singer.
When Scotty isn’t on stage he enjoys cooking, golf, and hanging with family and friends.
Scotty Berg is available for interviews upon request.
There is something magical about Kauai, Hawaii. The air, the scenery, the mountains, the sea, the people and the stories. Your first step off the plane is reminiscent of stepping into a new world. One that is underdeveloped, with no skyscrapers blocking the view of the natural beauty of the island. Compared to the other islands, Kauai is smaller, less populated, more rural and more laid back.
With so many destinations to choose from around the world, why do so many keep going back to Kauai, Hawaii? With Westjet offering direct flights from Vancouver, BC to Lihue between October to April, it’s an easy trip to this special piece of paradise. It has been said that you might not remember what someone says but you will always remember how they make you feel. That statement is true for getaways as well. Destinations that reliably create beautiful memories are hard to come by and worth holding onto.
If you want to tour the island (which you should!), the first thing on your to-do list is to rent a car. After reading the five-star reviews for SIXT car rental and my association with Brian Jessel BMW magazine, we were delighted to drive a brand new BMW X5 to do our sightseeing.
My son takes great pride in the cars he drives. The smile on his face driving to pick me up with our luggage was ear to ear as he reveled in the extraordinary performance and dynamics of the BMW X5. Immediately, we thought what a great way to test drive a car when you are on vacation. Donavan was more than impressed and continually said, “I just love this car.”
Kauai is known as the Garden Island that has endless charms—from spectacular beaches, lush rainforests to world-class golf courses. You will want to take time to drive to some of the wonderful attractions and activities located all around the island.
What fascinated me most was how much land philanthropists have given back to the island to prevent Kauai from becoming over-commercialized like many other tropical islands. A strict cap on building heights (hotels can be no more than 40 feet high), prevents the development of the mega-resorts and towering skyscrapers found on the other islands. The local rule is that nothing can be built taller than a coconut tree.
We headed to the tunnel of trees, the gateway to Poipu, to stay at the Sheraton Kauai Resort – a welcoming hotel oasis nestled on 20 acres on the shores of Hawaii’s world-famous Poipu Beach. With access to pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, this was the perfect place to anchor our adventures.
Their renovated guest rooms and suites face the sparkling oceanfront or lush garden views. A home away from home. One of the few hotels grandfathered in, the hotel is situated right on the beach, with two fresh-water pools and a hot tub. The resort offers everything from being able to pick up your morning coffee to catch the sunrise to dining at Rum Fire Restaurant to watch spectacular sunset views. Lava’s on Poipu Beach has views from every table or you can enjoy drinks and cuisine poolside. Everything we could want during a relaxing vacation was at our fingertips. When you have the opportunity to meet and chat with most of the same staff over the years that says a lot about the resort.
Executive Chef Gabe Balenzuela oversees all food and beverage operations for Sheraton Kauai Resort and the result is the level of hospitality is nothing short of outstanding. Dining at Rum Fire Poipu Beach at sunset is an awe-inspiring experience offering a modern Kauai dining experience with spectacular 180-degree ocean views. Rum Fire’s menu serves locally sourced cuisine with a global influence, featuring selections that will please even the most discriminating palates.
The resort is also an involved member of its community, with several charitable programs set up at the resort to give back to the island. When dining at Table 53 in Rum Fire or when you book Bungalow No. 5 poolside for full-day access to the amenities, the proceeds go directly to Charity Walk Kauai to benefit more than 60 non-profit organizations providing critical services on the island.
Whatever brings you to Hawaii, its golden-sand beaches and misty sea breezes ensure you will never want to leave. Daily resort activities include Lei making, arts and crafts, ukulele lessons, snorkeling, surfing, swimming, Luau and walking the seawall all available on site. With so many activities you can be as active as you like or just relax with a good book poolside or beachside. Showcasing an array of indoor and outdoor event venues, the hotel is also a brilliant location for a corporate retreat, wedding, or family reunion in Kauai.
Sheraton Kauai Resort is one of the few resorts to offer daily yoga classes to their guests included in the resort fee. I took part in yoga classes beachside rain or shine every morning at 8:00 am, joining all ages and levels. Every instructor brings something different to their class. Yoga is a great way to start the day and meet people from around the world. By practicing yoga you can slow down from your busy world and connect to yourself.
The elements on the island are conducive to yoga. The classes guide us to be grateful not only for our practice but our bodies and the beautiful location. You are encouraged to honor your body where it is today by not competing with anyone else, just gingo at your own pace.
I spoke to a number of guests staying at the Sheraton Kauai Resort to ask them why they keep returning to this precious property. Doug and Mandy from Yakima, Washington have been coming for six years with friends and co-workers. They love the ocean, the water is the perfect temperature, and they appreciate the great customer service at the resort. They love Kauai as it is quieter and has hundreds of acres of green space, which are wonderful to see from helicopter rides. Fishing and snorkeling is beautiful and the island and resort provide entertainment for all generations. You can do absolutely nothing but enjoy the view or do a lot. Your choice. Both are fabulous.
One of our most special days was spent on the award-winning Poipu Bay Golf Course. This outstanding course is backed by lush emerald mountains and sculpted from a rolling plateau eight stories above the Pacific Ocean. Nestled among the gentle contours of Poipu Bay you’ll discover the remains of Hawaiian heiau (places of worship) and ancient stone walls. Mother Nature presents you with one distraction after another. Even the most focused golfer will be challenged by the breathtaking views. Poipu Bay features the latest technology in rental golf clubs. Play on the same course challenged by even the best of the best professional golfers in the PGA Grand Slam of Golf from 1994 to 2006. A unique and unforgettable golf experience awaits you—one that will bring every aspect of your game into fresh and thrilling focus. For more information, check out the Course Overview or take the Hole-by-Hole Tour. www.poipubaygolf.com
If you aren’t an experienced golfer the Kukuiolono Park and Golf Course may be the course for you as they only charge $7 – $9 dollars a day for unlimited play. Walter McByde donated the course to the state of Hawaii so the locals have a golf course that they can afford to play on. Expect wind sweeping over the terrain, lots of trees, a few fairway hazards, and maybe a wild chicken pecking at the greens. https://kukuiolonogolf.com
On previous trips, we have taken Sea Tours on a Deluxe Catamaran Snorkel Trip to experience the majestic Na Pali coast, on the spacious 60-foot, custom-designed catamaran. As we headed up north to NaPali along the southwest coast of Kauai we got to see playful spinner dolphins skimming and leaping out of the waters, sea turtles, sea birds, and Humpback Whale watching in season (December – April) and more.
Our experienced captain was entertaining with the history and legends of Kauai, marine life ecology and tales of all the land that has been given to the island. He also points out where feature films and TV series were shot, the last battle place and where Jacqueline Kennedy went to recuperate after JFK’s assassination. We also stopped to swim and snorkel enjoying the underwater sights of a variety of fish and turtles swimming by.
Another adventure was Kauai Backcountry Adventures’ Mountain Tubing experience. We learned about the island’s history, culture and natural environment, while we visited spectacular lands with breathtaking vistas and fantastic scenery as we jumped into the gently flowing waters through open canals and tunnels hand-dug a century ago by plantation workers. The waters originate near the top of Mount Waialeale, one of the wettest spots in the world.
One of our most memorable days was an afternoon trip on Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, a trip of a lifetime. As stated on their website: Six million years of powerful natural forces have sculpted Kauai into what it is today, a natural masterpiece. The incomparable Na Pali Coast, Waimea Valley (the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”) and stunning Mount Waialeale (the second wettest place on earth), are among Kauai’s incredible wonders that are so remote, they are only accessible by helicopter. www.bluehawaiian.com
Photo credit Lesley Diana – David Sancious
Many celebrities have homes on Kauai including Carlos Santana, Bette Midler, Ben Stiller and Pierce Bronson to name a few. World-renowned musician David Sancious, an original member of the E Street Band (named after his family home) who has toured with Bruce Springsteen, Sting and Peter Gabriel, also calls Kauai home. His radio show ” THE PLEASURE OF SOUND” airs on KKCR Kauai Community Radio 90.9 fm Hanalei / 91.9 fm Kauai / 92.7 Moloa’a / 88.9 FM Honolulu / KKCR.org David plays music from around the world and different genres such as Classical, Jazz, Rock, Blues, Folk and more.
The show airs from 6 pm to 8 pm every other Tuesday. You can see his schedule at KKCR.org. It’s a great show to listen to as you drive around the island. David is also back in the studio with Bruce Springsteen so watch for new music.
You will also find special shops on Kauai that you can’t find anywhere else. My dear friend Kiran Sancious (David’s wife) is from Vancouver and has been in fashion since her teens, modeling, designing and creating new and chic upcycled clothing. You can find her at Tropical Tantrum in Historic Hanalei Town and Old Kapaa Town. Tropical Tantrum designs and creates Hawaiian-style clothing that is colorful, fun and exciting, offering men’s and women’s fashions for all occasions. Their quality, hand-painted batik fabrics and fun, beautiful, comfortable styles make them a must-shop. Topical Tantrum manufactures all of its own clothing so you can custom order to your specifications. TropicalTantrum.com
The list is endless for things to do, see, enjoy and explore in Kauai. But I’m off to book my next vacation there so I will leave you this: If breathtaking scenery, extraordinary hospitality and limitless fun are on your list, you might want to consider Kauai as your next vacation destination.
Lesley Diana is an entertainment publicist based in Vancouver, BC. She loves to travel and write about her experiences. www.thepromotionpeople.ca
Writer Kat Sieniuc Signs With United Talent Agency one of the world’s leading talent and entertainment companies
Kat Sieniuc has signed with United Talent Agency (UTA) for representation. UTA is one of the world’s leading talent and entertainment companies that helps the world’s most inspiring people make the world a more inspiring place.
Sieniuc was most recently in the writers room for Amazon Studio’s adaptation of The Left/Right Game podcast starring Tessa Thompson. Previously, she was a writer on the Netflix horror-drama The Order and is a celebrated alum of the Pacific Screenwriting Program, a highly-coveted fellowship for professional screenwriters that is sponsored by Netflix and the Canadian Media Producers Association.
Sieniuc is currently underway on writing a new pilot and is pitching a feature project to producers.
Sieniuc spent her childhood in Vancouver, Canada and began her writing career as a journalist in Toronto and New York City, writing for publications including Canada’s national newspaper, The Globe and Mail, and NYC-based Law360, where she covered local, national and legal news. She was also the senior producer of Ana Marie Cox’s Crooked Media podcast With Friends Like These.
With this background, Sieniuc excels at telling stories ripped from the headlines and rooted in real-life experience. Her work explores female relationships from a darkly comedic and social-commentary lens, and she’s particularly passionate about writing women who dominate spaces traditionally occupied onscreen by men.
Sieniuc was shortlisted for the Sundance Episodic Lab with her pilot, THE LIFT, a dark comedy about a Lyft driver who is drawn into a world of organized crime, and she was named an emerging writer to watch on The Tracking Board’s 2021 Next List. Her dramedy pilot, GUTS N’ GLORY, was a finalist in the Austin Film Festival and is on Coverfly’s Red List, in the Top 1% of more than 25,000 scripts.
Sieniuc’s other accolades include a PAGE International Screenwriting Gold Prize and she is a winner of WeScreenplay’s TV Writing Contest.
She continues to be represented by Grandview and The Characters Talent Agency.
Big Time Decent Productions announces premium documentary featuring completely blind surfer Derek Rabelo.
Calgary post-production facilities are open to accommodate service work.
Matt Shewchuk launches new production company Happy Heart Studios Inc. with Indigenous filmmaker Joy Haskell.
Matt Shewchuk, President & Executive Producer, is pleased to announce that Big Time Decent Productions has an exciting year ahead with growth in all areas of its business.
Big Time Decent is currently producing a premium feature documentary about Derek Rabelo on his quest to become the first completely blind surfer to ride the biggest waves in the world. The story takes viewers from small town Brazil to the “liquid mountains” of Nazaré, Portugal. The production company is producing this documentary with director/cinematographer Pablo Garcia, whose documentary work has been featured on HBO and Netflix. They are simultaneously producing an IMAX version with plans to bring the project to distributors at MIPTV in April 2023.
2022 opened the doors for Big Time Decent to take on more post-production service work at its Vancouver headquarters. They completed post-production on three MOWs including Key 2 Love and Dream Wedding for Super Channel and A Fabled Holiday for the Hallmark Channel. To keep up with demand, Big Time Decent has launched a new post-production facility in Calgary, Alberta. With a footprint in two major production hubs, this gives Big Time Decent the ability to service clients where they need to be, and the opportunity to leverage incentives in both BC and Alberta.
Shewchuk has teamed up with Indigenous filmmaker Joy Haskell to launch a new production company called Happy Heart Studios Inc. They plan to pool their resources to collaborate on unscripted and scripted projects that will entertain and inspire audiences. The new company is currently developing a slate of three docu-series featuring a wide range of characters and stories, from Southern Alberta to the Northwest Territories. “After meeting Joy, it was clear that we share the same love for storytelling and homegrown characters. It was a natural fit,” says Shewchuk.
ABOUT BIG TIME DECENT PRODUCTIONS – BOLD STORYTELLERS
Big Time Decent’s hit show, Rust Valley Restorers (Produced with Tyson Media), has received wide acclaim and accolades, including a nomination for a Canadian Screen Award. Seasons 1-4 are available on Netflix, MotorTrend, and History Canada, with Season 5 currently in production. Backroad Truckers’ second season has been green-lit by Corus and will air on History Canada and Hulu in the US.
Beyond their slate of scripted and unscripted projects, Big Time Decent also offers full production and post-productions services for feature films, MOWs, and TV series. Their post facilities in Vancouver and Calgary include edit suites, 5.1 sound mixing studios, and one of the most state-of-the-art colour grading suites in Western Canada.
The production company’s team includes Matt Shewchuk, President & Executive Producer, René Brar, Head of Development, Jeff Kinnon, VP of Factual, and Pricilla Hui, VP of Finance.
For more information and interviews please contact:
Actor Charles Andrew Payne is Pastor Bruce Barnes in the feature film LEFT BEHIND: RISE OF THE ANTICHRIST coming to theatres nationwide beginning Thursday, January 26th, 2023.
Charles stars alongside Kevin Sorbo, Neal McDonough, and Corbin Bernsen
Actor Charles Andrew Payne has a vast resume. One of his proudest roles is Pastor Bruce Barnes in the feature film LEFT BEHIND: RISE OF THE ANTICHRIST. Pastor Barnes is the bedrock of the story, a man torn between the faith he professes and what he believes. His family is taken in the rapture, but he has been left behind. Charles also narrates the film as his character Pastor Barnes.
LEFT BEHIND: RISE OF THE ANTICHRIST is coming to theaters nationwide beginning Thursday, January 26. Charles joins a stellar cast. Starring Kevin Sorbo (GOD’S NOT DEAD, SOUL SURFER), Neal McDonough (MINORITY REPORT, “Arrow,” TIMELINE), Corbin Bernsen (“Psych,” MAJOR LEAGUE, “The Resident”), Bailey Chase (“Longmire,” “Saving Grace”), Greg Perrow (ACTOR FOR HIRE, THOSE WHO KILL), Sarah Fisher (“Degrassi: The Next Generation,” ROXY) and Sam Sorbo (LET THERE BE LIGHT, HOPE BRIDGE, MIRACLE IN EAST TEXAS), LEFT BEHIND: RISE OF THE ANTICHRIST is the next chapter of the mega-hit LEFT BEHIND film franchise, based on the 80 million-copy New York Times bestselling book series of the same name.
LEFT BEHIND: RISE OF THE ANTICHRIST is directed by Kevin Sorbo and written by Paul Lalonde, John Patus and Jessica Parker. It is produced by Paul Lalonde, Michael Walker, Ed Clydesdale, James Quattrochi, Jason Wan Lim and John Duffy in association with AMCOMRI Entertainment Inc., Polyscope Pictures and Stonagal Pictures Inc.
LEFT BEHIND: RISE OF THE ANTICHRIST delivers an updated storyline from the 2014 LEFT BEHIND movie starring Nicolas Cage, which earned more than 30 million worldwide at the box office. The sequel shows how today’s events set the stage for the return of Christ and the coming apocalypse.
Past television series and feature films include Miracle In East Texas where Charles played Reverend Reece. He had the role of Jock on the television series Wynona Earp and the role of Darryl in The Surrogate While living in Vancouver one of the roles he most enjoyed was playing Breeze on MacGyver with Richard Dean Anderson and worked with Richard again on Stargate. He had the pleasure of working with Johnny Depp on 21 Jump Street in one of his earlier TV roles. He also worked with Kevin Sorbo on Andromeda and Miracle in East Texas. He joined both Pam Grier and Snoop Dog on The L – Word. A fun fact is that Charles often gets mistaken for Samuel L Jackson. People get mad when he tells them “I’m not him”. Considering Samuel is 20-plus years older and taller, “I think it will be a great day when he gets mistaken for me, then I’ll know I’ve made it.” add Charles.
As a professional comedian, Charles has toured across Canada and the USA, appearing as a featured headliner at comedy clubs and festivals. He speaks at corporate events providing talks on various business topics, perseverance, and resiliency, weaving in comedy and storytelling styles. His writings have been featured in various publications and produced on the theatrical stage as well as on television. Payne was the head writer and starred in the Rosie-nominated (Best Web Series 2017), and The Parent Council (2018). He is the writer and co-producer of the short film Choice, which will be out in 2023.
Payne co-founded Vancouver’s The Fox & Hounds Theatre Company and has appeared in most of their productions, as well as producing and directing several shows. Charles was born in Grenada and moved to Canada when he was nine. He grew up in Richmond BC where he started acting as a child, intrigued by the art of storytelling after seeing Grease in the theatres, he knew that he wanted to be part of that world. Charles trained with teachers Michael David Simms, and Alex Bruhanski as well as at the Gastown Actors Studio and Company of Rogues A fitness enthusiast who works out regularly and loves hot yoga and running. Pretty adept in the kitchen he loves to cook. Movies and books are his outlets and escape. Charles is married and resides in Calgary Alberta.
Charles is available for interviews and photos upon request:
The Smoking Gun Collective is back with Nobel Prize Winner Harold Pinter’s No Man’s Land.
Under the direction of William B. Davis, The Smoking Gun Collective, which brought you the thrilling J.B. Priestley’s, An Inspector Calls and Chekhov’s masterpiece, The Cherry Orchard, is proud to present, “No Man’s Land”.
A rare opportunity to see this classicby Harold Pinter, considered by the Nobel academy “The foremost representative of British drama in the second half of the twentieth century.”
The story seems simple but is anything but. A reclusive but once famous writer – Hirst – has invited the struggling minor poet – Spooner – for a late-night drink. Spooner, it seems, has more in mind than a mere drink but has to deal with Hirst’s manservants, Foster and Briggs. Pinter’s characteristic menace leads to a deeper exploration of memory and the meaning of life.
About the Cast:
X-File star, William B Davis, leads a cast with Jack Rigg, John Prowse and Chris Walters, all familiar members of The Smoking Gun Collective (An Inspector Calls, The Cherry Orchard).
About the Director:
William B. Davis’ directing career spans decades, from directing Donald Sutherland in Two for the Seesaw at the Chesterfield Rep in England, Brian Cox in A Man for All Seasons at the Dundee Rep in Scotland in the early sixties to directing No Man’s Land in Vancouver in 2022. In between he has directed well over 150 plays in various theatres across Canada, the UK, and the US. His most recent plays include The Cherry Orchard (2018) An Inspector Calls (2017) A Man For All Seasons (2015), The Habit of Art (2013), Hay Fever (2011) at Jericho Arts Centre, and Homeward Bound with Western Gold Theatre in 2017.
About the Creative and Production Team:
Directed by William B. Davis. Assistant Director: Douglas Abel. Set & Lighting design by Glenn MacDonald. Props design by Linda Begg. Costumes design by Julie White. Stage management by Andy Sandberg. Graphic design by Caroline Soudani. Produced by Emmanuelle Davis.
The play will be at PAL Theatre, 581 Cardero st, Vancouver, From November 26 to December 9 Tuesday to Saturday evenings at 7:30 PM Sunday matinees at 2:00 PM Talkbacks on Tuesdays and Sundays
Ticket price: $30 or email us for special discount for groups of 10 people or more.
More about the play: https://www.williambdavis.com/nomansland
Buy your tickets: https://www.williambdavis.com/nomansland-tickets
Canadian Filmmaker Corey Large reunites Hollywood A-list actors Bruce Willis and John Travolta after 27 years in the action-packed feature film “Paradise City”
Bruce Willis is Detective James Knight in the trilogy. “Detective Knight Rogue”, “Detective Knight: Redemption” and “Detective Knight: Independence”
Canadian Producer/Actor/Director/Screenwriter Corey Large of 308 Enterprises is one of North America’s most prolific filmmakers. His enthusiasm and love of the entertainment industry have helped him garner the trust of A-list actors Bruce Willis and John Travolta bringing them together after 27 years in the feature film “Paradise City” shot in Maui is now available On Demand. Also starring Bruce Willis “Detective Knight Rogue” is the thrilling first of a trilogy of films. Filmed in Vancouver, BC the feature film being distributed by Lionsgate is available on Digital and On Demand. “Detective Knight: Redemption” will be released on December 9, 2022, and “Detective Knight: Independence” will be released on January 20, 2023.
The action-packed movie “Paradise City” is the first movie to reunite Bruce Willis and John Travolta in 27 years. Corey has been looking to reteam the pair since 2006. This is the fifth time the two have starred together; the last movie was “Pulp Fiction.” In “Paradise City” Willis plays renegade bounty hunter Ryan Swan, who must carve his way through the Hawaiian crime world to seek revenge on the kingpin, played by Travolta, who killed his father. Corey is a co-writer, and producer and acts in the feature film. Actress Praya Lundberg (Strange Girl in a Strange Land) is the lead female role with Stephen Dorff (True Detective) and Blake Jenner (Glee) rounding out the cast. Chuck Russell (The Mask) directs.
In “Detective Knight Rogue” Bruce Willis stars as veteran Detective James Knight, dedicated to navigating the demanding streets of Los Angeles, in this thrilling first of a trilogy of films. As the city prepares for Halloween, mask-wearing armed robbers critically wound Knight’s partner in a shootout following a heist. With Knight in hot pursuit, the bandits flee L.A. for New York, where the detective’s dark past collides with his present case and threatens to tear his world apart… unless redemption can claim Knight first. “Detective Knight Rogue” was shot in Vancouver with Canadian actors Corey Large, Lochlyn Munro (Riverdale, Peacemaker), Michael Eklund (Wynonna Earp, The Call), and Cody Kearsley (Riverdale, River Road) joining Willis.
Other action films including “White Elephant”, “Cosmic Sin”, “Apex”, and “American Siege” are Bruce Willis starring vehicles with Large producing and acting so their friendship and working relationship have a long history.
With over fifteen productions underway since 2020, Corey Large’s company has found a productive niche in genre titles with A-list names with films that do well in theatres and on streaming and transactional platforms worldwide. Growing up in Victoria, Corey moved to Vancouver in 1997 and booked roles in TV series including “Breaker High.” He realized early in his career to take matters into his own hands by not waiting around to be cast in other people’s films. With sixty-four producer credits, thirty-six actor credits, and fourteen writer credits on IMDB, Corey made the right decision.
Garnering press coverage worldwide Corey is eager to share his story with Canadians. He has filmed a number of other feature films in Canada including ‘Broil” in Vancouver and “Apex” and “Poker Night” in Victoria. Corey splits his time between Victoria, Vancouver, and Los Angeles.
Corey Large is available for interviews upon request.
For more information, photographs, or interviews please contact:
Agam Darshi, Eric McCormack and Stephen Lobo AMONGST WINNERS AT THE 2022 UBCP/ACTRA AWARDS
The 11th annual awards gala celebrates the best of British Columbia’s talent in film, television and recorded media.
Vancouver, B.C. (November 19, 2022) – This year’s UBCP/ACTRA Awards ceremony honoured performers in six categories during the live ceremony at The Vancouver Playhouse on November 19th, 2022.
Award Highlights:
Beginning with a star-studded red carpet hosted by Vancouver media mogul, Sabrina Furminger, the interviewees included fan-favourite Eric McCormack (DRINKWATER), actor and director, Agam Darshi (DONKEYHEAD), and Taylor Hickson (Motherland: Fort Salem).
Actor and comedian Kalyn Miles hosted the Award Ceremony.
The John Juliani Award of Excellence was bestowed posthumously to revered actor Michael Kospa.
This year’s UBCP/ACTRA Award winners are:
Best Lead Performance, Female
Agam Darshi – Donkeyhead
Best Lead Performance, Male
Stephen Lobo – Donkeyhead
Best Supporting Performance, Female
Leah Gibson – Joe Pickett – The Most Hated Man in 12 Sleeps
Best Supporting Performance, Male
Eric McCormack – Drinkwater
Best Voice Performance
Ian Hanlin – Angry Birds: Summer Madness – Much Ado About Pudding
Best Stunt Performance
Marny Eng, Colby Chartrand, Kevin Fortin, Leif Havdale and Jeff Sanca – Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Steph Schumann Photography
“I am so grateful to be able to celebrate the exceptional calibre of acting that is represented here tonight,” says Ellie Harvie, UBCP/ACTRA President. “We have all enjoyed countless hours of entertainment by the performers who were nominated and it is exciting to think of what we will see from these talented actors in the future. I am proud to be a part of this community.”
The sponsors of the awards show include the Event Sponsor AFBS; Silver sponsors ACTRA, Bakertilly, Canadian Media Producers Association BC Branch, Casting Workbook, The Characters, Industrial Alliance, Koskie Glavin Gordon, Stuntlist, Teamsters Local 155; and Bronze sponsors Directors Guild of Canada BC, eOne, IATSE Local 891, ICG 669, Lighthouse Pictures, Lucas Talent, Play Management, Red, The School of Motion Picture Arts – Capilano University and Stunts Canada.
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The Union of British Columbia Performers (UBCP/ACTRA) is an autonomous branch of ACTRA (Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television, and Radio Artists), the national organization of professional performers working in the English-language recorded media in Canada. ACTRA represents the interests of 28,000 members across Canada – the foundation of Canada’s highly acclaimed professional performing community.
Media Contact: Lesley Diana | The Promotion People
Michael Kopsa to receive the John Juliani Award for Excellence at UBCP/ACTRA 11th Annual Awards Gala
VANCOUVER, BC (November 8, 2022) On November 19, Michael Kopsa, a revered actor and longtime member of the UBCP/ACTRA community will be honoured posthumously with the distinguished John Juliani Award of Excellence, at the 11th annual UBCP/ACTRA awards show. The John Juliani Award of Excellence is bestowed upon a performer for achievement as a performing artist and their distinguished contribution to the film and television industry.
“Michael was an incredible actor with a commanding presence that embodied the humility, pride, intensity, skills, and individuality required to navigate, and thrive in our industry. Throughout his career, he actively sought opportunities to make a difference and support the next generation of talent. He truly cared about his community. He was very loved and will be truly missed,” said Ellie Harvie, President of UBCP/ACTRA.
Born in Toronto, Michael attended Jarvis Collegiate and the University of Toronto before being accepted into the Neighborhood Playhouse conservatory in New York. From there, he was invited to study at the prestigious Circle in the Square.
Michael was a prolific voice, film, and stage actor, who, off-camera, was a superb carpenter and an accomplished musician and painter.
Michael’s road to amassing over 200 acting credits includes selling his carpentry tools and packing up his pickup to move across the country to follow his dreams of being an actor. A move that proved to be the best path for him with the impressive career in the entertainment industry that followed.
Michael became a force in the anime world, voicing Gundam, Death Note, Ghost in The Shell, and Galaxy Angel. He wasthe Beast in X-Men: Evolution, Samukai in Lego Ninjago, and the Controller in Iron Man: Armored Adventures. He was also the voice of Roger Baxter in Littlest Pet Shop. His film credits include TheFantastic Four,Rise of the Planet of the Apes, The Twilight Zone, Apollo 18, and Love Happens. His TV credits include Barry in Beggars and Choosers, Ray Ellis in Falcon Beach, General Kerrigan in Stargate, Jack Truax in The Dead Zone, Raul in Van Helsing, and the chilling Captain Windmark in The Fringe. As for the stage, his powerful performances in Hospitality Suite and Playland at Pacific Theatre are legendary. He won an outstanding actor award for his role as Satan in The Last Days of Judas Iscariot with Pound of Flesh theatre.
Michael was a devoted father and well respected and admired in the arts community. He fought a courageous battle with a brain tumor, facing each day with humor, grace, and tenderness. He passed away on October 23, 2022.
NOTE TO PRESS: A red carpet will precede the Awards Gala, starting at 5:00 PM (all media must be set up by 4:45 PM). Media must RSVP to Lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca to secure a spot on the carpet. Interviews and photos are available.
Actor/Comedian Kalyn Miles will be hosting the UBCP/ACTRA Awards to be held on Saturday, November 19, 2022, at the Vancouver Playhouse. Over 600 industry professionals, including UBCP/ACTRA members, the press, and politicians will be in attendance. Meet the nominees here.
The Union of British Columbia Performers (UBCP/ACTRA) is an autonomous branch of ACTRA (Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television, and Radio Artists), the national organization of professional performers working in the English-language recorded media in Canada. ACTRA represents the interests of 28,000 members across Canada – the foundation of Canada’s highly acclaimed professional performing community.
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Media are invited to interview nominees on the red carpet and/or leading up to the awards.
