Tammy Gillis continues busy year with world premiere of feature film ‘Menorca’ at the Whistler Film Festival

Tammy also has upcoming roles in ‘Once Upon A Time’, ‘The Arrangement’ and the feature film ‘Thirty-Seventeen’

Tammy Gillis is gearing up for a busy end to 2016, with a number of notable film and television appearances on the horizon. First up is Tammy’s lead role in the the feature film ‘Menorca’, which she traveled to Spain and Winnipeg to film. ‘Menorca’ is the dramatic feature film directorial debut by John Barnard of Farpoint Film, who also wrote the film. Tammy plays a hedonistic soccer mom who indulges in her fantasy world, breaking away entirely from her family and life of motherhood. As she embarks on a journey through bad decision-making, she comes to a conclusion to the singularity of her life purpose — she needs to win back her son’s affection. The film has been chosen an entrant in the Borsos Film Competition for Best Canadian Feature and will be screening at the Whistler Film Festival, on Saturday, December 3 at 5:30 p.m., and Sunday, December 4 at 3:30 p.m. in the Village 8 Cinemas in Whistler, before having a wider theatrical release across Canada.

On the small screen, Tammy has two exciting upcoming appearances, starting with a guest starring role on ABC’s hit series ‘Once Upon a Time’. Audiences will have to tune in on November 27th to see which famous fable character Tammy brings to life. After that, Tammy can be seen in a recurring role on the E! Network’s new series ‘The Arrangement’. Tammy plays an actress on the show, which follows fellow actress Megan, who is desperate for that really big break. Megan lands the role of a lifetime, quickly winning the affections of her A-list co-star-to-be, the fabulously successful and wealthy Kyle West. However, her world is rocked when she is presented with a life-changing “arrangement”, for which she will be compensated lavishly.

In theatres, Tammy has the feature film ‘Thirty-Seventeen’ on the horizon. The film follows tech billionaire Adam Vine as he attends his 20^th high school reunion. Convinced that he and his classmates have unfinished business that dates back to 1997, he uses his immense cash flow to buy the impossible: a brief return to high school for all of them. Tammy plays Claire in the film, one of the popular girls in high school who wants to relive her youth by getting wild at the reunion party. The film is set for theatrical release in December of this year.

Tammy is a Hallmark Channel fan favourite, with many popular appearances in the channel’s movies, including her most recent release in a co-starring role opposite Danica McKellar in ‘Wedding Bells’. Also on the Hallmark Channel, Tammy had a lead role in one of the network’s most highly rated movies, ‘Unleashing Mr. Darcy’. In this modern day spin on ‘Pride & Prejudice’, Tammy starred along with Cindy Busby, Ryan Paevey and Frances Fischer.

Tammy is widely recognized for her multitude of film and television appearances. In a challenging role Tammy played a profound character in Signed Sealed Delivered: Impossible Dream. Her character is based on the real story of the Band of Sisters, an ultra-secret Joint Special Operations Command – which sent female soldiers in the field to go out on combat missions alongside the Rangers. Tammy’s role displays the diversity and talent of her acting. http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/23/opinions/lemmon-band-of-sisters-special-ops/

Tammy’s directorial debut came earlier this year for the web series THE SUPPORT GROUP, which she also produced and acted in. The original comedy web series follows three unlikely friends, each facing their own challenges and coming together to save their beloved support group. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUDm2tEohHSBaZYZHvtKlfg

This exceptionally talented actress has over 50 credits to her name and has made TV guest appearances on Ties that Bind (UPTV), Motive (CTV/ABC), Girlfriend’s Guide to Divorce (Bravo), Supernatural (CW), Lost Girl (Showcase), Blue Mountain State (Spike TV), Endgame (Showcase), and many more. She has recurred on the critically acclaimed award winning HBO Canada series Less Than Kind and jPod (CBC) .Additional work in which Tammy has appeared includes the feature films White Noise 2, Shooter, No Men Beyond This Point, and The Pinocchio Project, as well as leading roles in A Novel Romance (Hallmark), and Stolen from the Womb (Lifetime).

Divvying up her time between Vancouver, the east coast of Canada and Los Angeles, Tammy is a rising star who brings years of entertainment industry experience to the table. A well-respected member of the community, she served as a jury member for the Canadian Screen Awards this past year. Tammy also volunteered as a mentor in the 2015 and current 2016 WIFTV actor mentorship program.

For more information and interviews please contact:
Lesley Diana | Lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca | 604-726-5575
Talent Agent – Play Management, Samantha Jewell | samantha@playmgmt.com | 604 677 7529

Social Media Handles

Website: tammygillis.com, menorcafilm.com, thesupportgrouptheseries.com,
Twitter: @RealTammyGillis, @menorcafilm, @TSGtheseries
Facebook: Tammy Gillis, Menorca Film, The Support Group Webseries
IMDb: Tammy Gillis
YouTube: THE SUPPORT GROUP – the Web Series Teaser Trailer, Menorca Trailer

The Promotion People

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People
Instagram: @thepromotionpeople

Todd Talbot of Love it or List it Vancouver will host the exclusive ‘THE FAST, THE FURIOUS AND THE FASHIONABLE’ Special Fund Raising Event for Covenant House on Friday, November 4th from 7:00 – 10:00 pm in conjunction with Strellson, OpenRoad, Fairmont Vancouver Airport, Trading Post Brewing

Todd will join other celebrities and business leaders by sleeping out and raising money for Covenant House on November 17^th in Vancouver

Todd Talbot of Love It or List It Vancouver is so moved by the work that Covenant House is doing to bring attention and compassion to kids sleeping on the streets of Vancouver that he will be joining other celebrities and business leaders by sleeping outside for one night in solidarity on November 17^th, 2016.

To raise money for Covenant House Todd has created a special fund raising event ‘THE FAST, THE FURIOUS AND THE FASHIONABLE’ by inviting 50 gentlemen to join him for a night of style, fine cars, high-end scotch tasting and food at Strellson Vancouver located at 1108 Alberni Street on November 4^th from 7:00 – 10:00 pm. In conjunction with OpenRoad, Fairmont Vancouver Airport and Strellson, this exclusive party will be raising money and awareness for Covenant House.

Upon arrival the gentlemen will be given a choice to get behind the wheel of a Rolls-Royce, a super slick orange BMW i8 or a jet black Audi R8. They will then enter into the exclusive Strellson store located on Alberni St. at the base of the luxurious Thurlow Tower. Inside, there’ll be a ton of special surprises, guests will receive style tips from Strellson’s fashion director David Altow, shop and enjoy 30% savings, plus partake in tasting samplings served by Fairmont Vancouver Airport chef Colin Burslem. They will also get to sip high end scotch and Trading Post Beer. This is the second annual event and Todd’s goal is to raise a whack of money for Covenant House prior to the ‘Sleep Out’ on November 17th.

Tickets are limited and cost $250. A full tax receipt from Covenant House will be provided. Todd encourages everyone to consider adding a few extra bucks for this amazing organization.

** CLICK HERE FOR INVITE AND TICKETS*

https://www.picatic.com/fastfuriousfashionable

“I am inspired to raise as much money and awareness as possible for Covenant House. Having friends and family who have struggled with addiction, mental illness, and being on the streets, I know they need a last line of defence and the resources to stay safe. Covenant House delivers support that is desperately needed,” says Talbot. “I am so fortunate and admittedly lucky to be in the position I’m in. As a father of two, I am aware that there are no promises when it comes to my children’s future. I see these young adults who could be my kids. Imagining them struggling and lost, breaks my heart. I know that a safe haven is essential. Protection, warmth, and a supportive environment is a necessity for all of us. We have an opportunity to provide that for youth who can’t provide for themselves at the moment.”

The SLEEP OUT is on November 17th and Covenant House is challenging local executives, community luminaries and notables to Sleep Out for one night in solidarity with the youth we serve at Covenant House. With only a sleeping bag and a piece of cardboard, participants will get a small glimpse of what it’s like to “sleep” on the street.

Covenant Houses throughout the United States and Canada will host Sleep Out events this fall to raise critical funds and awareness about the issue of youth homelessness. We hope you consider joining the movement. Many youth who have nowhere else to turn spend many cold and lonely nights sleeping on the streets.

Covenant House’s Crisis Program takes in homeless, runaway and at-risk youth between the ages of 16 and 24.

Homeless, lost and afraid, more than 1,500 street–involved youth come to Covenant House Vancouver each year to find sanctuary and a brighter future. Cold, hungry and alone, the reality of sleeping on the streets is harsh and unforgiving. Many of the youth who make their way through our doors have had to endure cruel life circumstances on the pitiless streets before they finally find hope here at Covenant House Vancouver. We welcome them unconditionally, helping them begin their journey to leave life on the streets behind them for good.

Todd Talbot is available for interviews upon request.
For more information, photos and interview requests with Todd please contact:
Lesley Diana | Lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca | 604-726-5575

Social Media Handles

Website: toddtalbot.ca, covenanthousebc.org openroadautogroup.com chvsleepout.kintera.org
Twitter: @toddtalbot @LoveitorlistitV @hgtvcanada @strellsoncan
Facebook: ToddTalbot.Acting.RealEstate
Instagram: @toddtalbot

Contact The Promotion People

Lesley Diana – Founder, President and Publicist
lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca
604.726.5575

Busy Actor Viv Leacock has roles in three upcoming TV productions BBC America’s ‘Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency’, Hallmark Channel’s ‘Hailey Dean Mystery: Murder with Love’ and CW’s ‘Frequency’

With over ninety roles in film and television productions Viv Leacock has a busy fall season ahead on three TV shows that include BBC America’s “Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency”, Hallmark Channel’s “Hailey Dean Mystery: Murder with Love”, and the CW’s new series “Frequency”. Then following up in January 2017 on ABC TV Viv is part of an ensemble cast in the TV series “When We Rise”.

On the much anticipated “Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency”, created by Max Landis, premiering on BBC America and AMC on October 22^nd, Viv takes on the role of ‘Gripps’, part of a group of supernatural beings called ‘The Rowdy 3’ – all four of them – composed of the aloof Martin (Michael Eklund), the manic Vogel (Osric Chau), the ever-stoic Gripps (Viv Leacock) and the deranged Cross (Zak Santiago), are vampires. Not the night walking bloodsucking kind, but rather something much stranger…if that’s possible. They feed on emotion and the electrical energy of the human mind, which they extract in blasts of crackling electricity. Ex-test subjects, the Rowdy 3 have tried to make a life for themselves out in the real world, forever hunting Dirk Gently; deliberately entering his life in moments where it will cause him the most emotional terror.

A four-member clan of ‘energy vampires’, Gripps showcases his dominance and strength. “Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency” centers on the titular holistic detective (Samuel Barnett) who investigates cases involving the supernatural alongside his reluctant sidekick, Todd (Elijah Wood). Based on the ‘Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency’ novel series, written by Douglas Adams and published by Simon and Schuster in 1987. http://www.bbcamerica.com/shows/dirk-gentlys-holistic-detective-agency/cast-crew/the-rowdy-3

On October 23^rd on the Hallmark Channel’s “Hailey Dean Mystery: Murder with Love” he plays ‘Fincher Garland’, an investigator for Altanta’s D. A. a work husband and sometimes bodyguard for Hailey Dean (Kellie Martin). Former prosecutor-turned-therapist Hailey Dean is a powerhouse, Mensa bright, and acutely observant. During a tragic week, one of her patients loses her parents to separate fatal accidents along with millions of dollars that has seemingly vanished into thin air. When the police begin to question Hailey’s patient, she knows she is innocent. But who is the culprit?

CW’s series “Frequency” follows a police detective, Raimy Sullivan (Peyton List) who discovers that in 2016 she is able to speak via a ham radio with her estranged father; Frank Sullivan (Riley Smith), a detective who died in 1996. The two must work together to change the history of tragic events to come while also getting the chance to heal their complicated relationship. Viv plays ‘Chester’ a dirty cop with a guilty conscience who is a reluctant co-conspirator.

Set to air in January 2017, Viv is part of an ensemble cast on the ABC TV series “When We Rise” an upcoming ABC TV series written, created and directed by Dustin Lance Black and starring Guy Pearce, Mary-Louise Parker and Rachel Griffin. It chronicles the personal and political struggles, set-backs and triumphs of a diverse family of LGBT men and women who helped pioneer one of the last legs of the US Civil Rights movement from its turbulent infancy in the 20^th century to the once unfathomable successes of today. Viv plays a father whose daughter writes a poignant letter to President Obama.

In the early 90’s his first love was Stand Up Comedy. Viv credits being an actor to his brother Richard Leacock (Doc, Lake Placid, Saving God) as the reason he is in the entertainment industry. He wouldn’t be here without him. Acting came to him in 1997 just after his mother passed away. Although Viv hasn’t had any formal training, in addition to his brother, he also credits Mark Brandon, Jeff Seymour and Ben Ratner for being instrumental in helping him find his way as an actor.

It is his role as ‘T. J.’ in the feature film “I Spy”(2002) with Eddie Murphy that paved his way. Eddie Murphy had to approve Viv in his role of T. J., one of Kelly Robinson’s (Murphy) entourage. Eddie’s first words to Viv were “You’re really funny man!” Something that Viv still treasures today. Growing up, Eddie Murphy was his idol, so working along side him was an amazing experience. Both he and his brother booked supporting leads, but Richard’s TV schedule prevented him from doing the role but the fact that they booked it together meant a lot to both of them. They did have the opportunity to work together on TV series “Doc” with Richard starring in a lead role.

Other memorable roles in feature films include the comedy “Intern Academy” (2004) starring Dave Thomas of SCTV fame, Dan Aykroyd, Dave Foley, Matt Frewer and Maury Chaykin. In 2010 he was nominated for a Leo Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in “The Thaw” starring Val Kilmer. Viv plays Bart, a helicopter pilot that will do anything to save everyone.

Currently on the film festival circuit “Dark Harvest”(2016) is screening to rave reviews. The film stars Cheech Marin, James Hutson, Hugh Dillon and Alan J. Pederson, Viv plays Earl Freeman, a partner in a Grow Op, with dreams of getting out alive. In the Award Winning feature “Becoming Redwood” (2013) Redwood Forrest Hanson dreams that if he can beat Jack Nicklaus at the 1975 Masters of golf, he’ll reunite his parents forever. Starring Chad Willett, Ryan Grantham, Jennifer Copping and Derek Hamilton Viv plays Ruben Malone a figment of Redwood’s (Grantham) imagination that is literally the voice in his head.

“On The Farm” (2016) is a TV Movie that hit Viv hard, as he was a close friend with one of Robert “Willie” Pickton’s victims. He plays Sgt. Sarin, the forensic investigator that was instrumental in the DNA finds that put Pickton away. The character was an amalgamation of a few different real life officers and ironically would have been the person responsible for identifying his friend’s DNA remains.

Although he has a successful acting career it is his family life with his wife Divina, and their three children, Vienna 10, Lennox 8 and Elias 6, that Viv cherishes the most. He claims it is his reason for being. He credits his wife for taking care of them and his kids for keeping him fit. Viv currently resides with his family in Vancouver.

For more information and interviews please contact:
Lesley Diana | Lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca | 604-726-5575

Social Media Handles

Twitter: @VivLeacock
Instagram: @VivLeacock
Facebook: VivLeacock
IMDb: Viv Leacock, Frequency, Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency

http://www.hallmarkmoviesandmysteries.com/hailey-dean-mystery-murder-with-love

The Promotion People

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People
Instagram: @thepromotionpeople

Gritty mystery Dark Harvest, starring James Hutson and Cheech Marin, hits New York City Cannabis Film Festival on October 16th

The critically acclaimed feature has won a number of accolades on its festival tour, including Best Picture (Audience Choice & Best of the Fest) at the Columbia Gorge International Film Festival, and Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Cheech Marin, and Best Thriller at the Oregon International Film Festival

The gritty marijuana murder-mystery, Dark Harvest, is set to screen at the New York City Cannabis Film Festival on October 16^th, following an impressive festival run brimming with critical acclaim and festival accolades.

The feature film stars an impressive ensemble cast, including: James Hutson, Hugh Dillon, Tygh Runyan, Bernie Coulson, Alan C. Peterson and Cheech Marin. The film marks the first feature from James Hutson (Insomnia, Reindeer Games), a passion project that he not only stars in, but also wrote, directed and produced.

Dark Harvest chronicles the struggles of two growers and a suspended narcotics officer as they deal with a series of murders on the eve of marijuana legalization. When Carter Holmes (Hutson), a veteran marijuana grower determined to retire, is robbed of a quarter million dollars worth of weed, he goes against the advice of his mentor (Cheech Marin; Up in Smoke, Desperado) and seeks out a legal medical cultivation license to secure an income stream. Violent crimes, murders shrouded in mystery, and a race to find who is responsible, leads Carter to work with an unlikely partner to survive.

Hutson was inspired to write Dark Harvest while working at his former job that involved acting out scenarios for the Vancouver Police Department to train new officers. While on the job, he would ask veteran cops to share stories with him. After hearing about a drug bust that went sideways, the story for Dark Harvest began to brew in the filmmakers mind. The film was then cast with an ensemble of award winning actors that bring years of experience and engaging performances to the project. The movie, which takes audiences on a dramatic, 87-minute ride, was shot in Vancouver, Toronto, Cuba and Mexico.

Dark Harvest has screened at festivals across North America to audience and critical acclaim alike, including at the Portland Film Festival, Williamsburg International Film Festival, Oregon Independent Film Festival, Columbia Gorge International Film Festival, and Edmonton International Film Festival.

For more information, visit: http://darkharvestmovie.com

James Hutson is available for interviews upon request.

For interviews, photos and more information please contact:
Lesley Diana | Lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca | 604-726- 5575

David Lewis appearing across networks this fall in multiple television roles

David has roles in ‘Zoo’, ‘Motive’, ‘Rogue’, and the new series ‘Travelers’ and ‘Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency’

Veteran actor David Lewis is appearing on television screens across North America this fall on a number of popular returning shows and two anticipated new series poised for premieres this month.

Having recently played the role of Dr. Vickers in the CBS drama ‘Zoo’, David is switching gears to the land of law when he appears in the new season of the CTV hit, ‘Motive’, as Sergeant Gavin Saunders. David also has guest starring and recurring roles on ‘Travelers’, ‘Rogue’, ‘Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce’ and ‘Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency’, all airing this fall.

Coming up next for David is the role of Agent Weedle on the anticipated new series ‘Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency’, starring Elijah Wood, which premieres later this month on BBC America and on Netlfix in November. Elsewhere on the small screen, David plays Major Gleason in the original time-travel sci-fi series ‘Travelers’, starring Eric McCormack, airing on Showcase in Canada, and streaming on Netflix internationally. David also returns for a second season in his recurring role as Mitchell, an over-the-top magazine editor in the series ‘Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce’.

David will also be hitting the big screen at the Austin Film Festival in the short ‘The Goodnight Kiss’, screening on October 16 & 18. David co-wrote and stars in the film, which follows two people who fall in love, but the belief that successful love is forever turns their love into misery and only a catastrophic event can bring them back together.

The Leo Award-winning actor has garnered industry acclaim while amassing almost 200 film and television credits to his name. Career highlights include working with Harrison Ford, Paul Giamatti, Ben Affleck and William H. Macy on films such as ‘Door to Door’, ‘The Day the Earth Stood Still’, ‘Paycheck’ and ‘Grumpy Cat’s Worst Christmas Ever’. He has written and directed a number of short films including ‘Stalled’ and ‘Theatrics’. David also had a lead role in the Cannes Film Festival Best Short Film award-winning short ‘Shoes Off’.

Other film and television credits include ‘Man of Steel’, ‘Lake Placid’, ‘The Butterfly Effect 2’, the ‘Fairly Odd Parents’ string of movies, and the CBS mystery series ‘Harper’s Island’.

David Lewis is available for interviews upon request.

For interviews, photos and more information please contact:
Lesley Diana | Lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca | 604-726- 5575

Social Media Handles

Twitter: @davidjlewis11
IMDb: imdb.com/name/nm0507082

The Promotion People

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People
Instagram: @thepromotionpeople

Actress Alison Wandzura Plays With Vampires in Van Helsing SyFy Series Premiering September 23rd at 10/9c

Actress Alison Wandzura will be lighting up the screen in the highly anticipated TV series Van Helsing. From the Producers of Emmy winning Fargo and Hell on Wheels, Van Helsing features Alison Wandzura as a key character in an apocalyptic vampire world. The new series premieres on September 23, 2016 at 10/9c on the SyFy network.

Van Helsing is described as “a twist on the classic vampire adventure tale”. In Van Helsing, Alison’s character was originally written only into the pilot episode but was expanded over the first season. Alison plays the recurring character Nicole alongside Kelly Overton (True Blood), Jonathan Scarfe (Hell on Wheels), Christopher Heyerdahl (True Blood), David Cubitt (Medium, Ray Donovan), and Aleks Paunovic (Continuum). Vanessa Helsing, distant relative of famous vampire hunter Abraham Van Helsing, is resurrected only to find that vampires have taken over the world. She is humanity’s last hope to lead an offensive to take back what has been lost.

“I fell in love with the Van Helsing characters and their journeys”, says Alison. “The show is gritty and unpredictable, and the stakes (pardon the pun) are always high. As an actor, you’re entering a world where your life is constantly in danger, with vampires gnashing at the gates, and you have to make that authentic to you, so it’s authentic to the audience.”

“It’s a gift to be part of the Van Helsing family, as it is the best crew and cast I’ve worked with,” reflects Alison. “Kelly Overton, our leading lady, is incredibly down-to-earth and gracious,” Alison continues. “The vibe on any set trickles down from the top, so when the star of the show is as warm a person as Kelly, that spirit is contagious.”

Alison is currently working on the movie Story of a Girl, which is Kyra Sedgwick’s directorial debut, and part of Lifetime network’s “Broad Focus” initiative to promote female directors, writers, and producers. Alison plays a well-to-do former colleague of the character played by Jon Tenny (Scandal, The Closer). Alison will also be appearing on The Magicians (SyFy) and Rogue (DirecTV), both airing in 2017. Other credits include The X Files, iZombie, Mistresses, Age of Adaline and Once Upon A Time.

Courtesy VanHelsing

This year Alison co-produced and co-starred in Singer Sisters, a comedic short film that won a $10,000 grant from Telus Storyhive. In the film she plays Sarah, an actress who’s being pressured to go under the knife in order to land a role on a TV show. This film specifically created opportunities for women, as the producers, writer, director and many of the crew were female.

Alison grew up in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Early signs of a future in acting began around the age of six when Alison started improvising shampoo commercials in her bathtub. As a kid she loved putting on puppet shows for whoever would watch. The turning point came in University while she was majoring in Business and minoring in Drama. She began performing in stage plays, which she considers to be the best training ground for an actor. “In a two-hour stage performance, you have to give a lot of yourself, and the stamina required for a three-week run with nightly performances is huge,” says Alison.

In her personal life, Alison has a 2-year-old Chihuahua named Cheetah, which she adopted through a group called “Big and Small Rescue”. She encourages people to save an animal’s life by adopting. Alison sticks to a regular workout regimen to stay in shape, often doing push-ups with her 10-pound Chihuahua on her back for a fun and further challenge.

Alison continues to pursue her acting career with the goal of telling thought-provoking stories, particular those with strong, empowering portrayals of women.

Alison is available for interviews and photographs upon request.

For more information and interview requests please contact:
Lesley Diana | Lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca | 604-726-5575

Alison Wandzura’s Links

IMDb: imdb.com/name/nm3004926
Twitter: @alisonwandzura
Van Helsing pilot footage: vimeo.com/182407063
Demo Reel: vimeo.com/155090579
Vimeo: vimeo.com/user26720120
Website: alisonwandzura.com

The Promotion People

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People
Instagram: @thepromotionpeople

Fresh off multiple roles in “Sausage Party”, in-demand voice over artist and veteran actor Nicole Oliver stars as Kathy in “Marrying the Family”

“Marrying the Family” will have its world premiere at VIFF this month

Nicole Oliver continues to expand her diverse entertainment career, balancing voiceover work in a high-profile Hollywood animated feature film with a lead role in an indie-gem, while simultaneously booking roles for a number of upcoming projects.

Nicole recently voiced the roles of Sally Bun, Ice cream, Watermelon and Female Shopper #1 in Seth Rogen’s buzzed-about adult animated comedy “Sausage Party”. The movie also features the voices of James Franco, Jonah Hill, Kristen Wiig, and Selma Hayek. This isn’t Nicole’s only recent work alongside impressive A-list actors: She also has a role in “Wonder”, a feature film starring Julia Roberts and Jacob Tremblay.

Nicole can next be seen in the indie film “Marrying the Family”, which is set to make its world premiere at the Vancouver International Film Festival. “Marrying the Family” unites Nicole with many of the ensemble cast from the Film Festival darling “Leap for Your Life”. The film follows Dylan (Taylor Hill), as she is getting ready for her wedding to her high school sweetheart Corey (Adam Di Marco). However, any plans for a simple wedding are put on hold when her wedding planner mother Kathy, played by Nicole, steps in to design a wedding Dylan will never forget. “Marrying the Family” is a sweet comedy about love, family, growing up and letting go. It is directed by Peter Benson (What An Idiot).

The multifaceted entertainment veteran has countless film and television credits to her name. She is the recipient of the UBCP/ACTRA award for Best Voice for her work in animation.

Nicole has guest starred on numerous television series including “Supernatural” and “Rogue”. She has also starred in many MOW’s including “Radio Hype” starring Alison Sweeney, Lifetime’s “Ungodly Acts”, “The Christmas Ornament” starring Cameron Mathison and Kellie Martin, “The Woodcarver” with John Ratzenberger; “Taken Back – Finding Haley” with Amanda Tapping and “Innocent” with Bill Pullman and Marcia Gay Harden. For four seasons, Nicole was also the host on the hit Slice Network series “Crash Test Mommy”. A highlight for Nicole was acting alongside her young son, William Ainscough, who starred as Billy in City TV’s “Seed” for two seasons.

Well known throughout the world at Brony and Fan Conventions as Princess Celestia and Cheerilee on “My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic” and Zoe on the cartoon “Littlest Pet Shop”, her acclaimed voice-over work continues to thrive. In animation, she has popular roles on “Max Steel”, “Martha Speaks”, “Strawberry Shortcake”, and “Superbook”. She has provided her voice to over 100 companies including American Express, Starbucks, Salon Selectives, Club House, and IKEA.

Nicole Oliver has worked for over twenty years in the entertainment industry as an actor, producer, and director. This multi-talented, incredibly busy mother and professional has mastered the balance between family and work, and has furthered her education with a Masters of Arts in Communication from Royal Roads University (2011). She is the recipient of both the Founders Award for leadership and sustainability and the Chancellors Award for highest academic achievement.

Nicole Oliver is available for interviews upon request.

For interviews, photos and more information please contact:
Lesley Diana | Lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca | 604-726- 5575

Nicole’s Social Media Handles

Website: nicoleoliver.com
Twitter: @mouthnoize
IMDb: Nicole Oliver

The Promotion People

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People
Instagram: @thepromotionpeople

William Ainscough stars as Milton in the feature film “Milton’s Secret”, based on the book by Eckhart Tolle and Robert Friedman

“Milton’s Secret” has its World Premiere at the Vancouver International Film Festival and opens in Theaters across the United States on September 30th

Thirteen-year old actor William Ainscough is a rising child star who is making headlines starring as Milton alongside the distinguished and legendary Donald Sutherland in the feature film Milton’s Secret. Opening in select theatres throughout the United States, and On Demand/ Digital HD on Friday, September 30, 2016, Milton’s Secret will have its World Premiere as a Family Gala feature at this year’s Vancouver International Film Festival.

The feature film Milton’s Secret, is an adaptation of Eckhart Tolle and Robert S. Friedman’s book of the same name. William plays 12 year-old Milton Adams, who is growing up in an uncertain world. Milton feels as if his whole world is in crisis – his parents are stressed about their careers and finances and Milton is being bullied at school. However, when his Grandpa Howard (Donald Sutherland) comes to visit, he discovers anxiety about the past and worrying about the future only make things worse and prevent him from finding true happiness moment to moment.

William initially auditioned on tape, followed by a Skype session for the role of Milton. Award-winning writer-director Barnet Bain, best known as producer of What Dreams May Come starring Robin Williams and Cuba Gooding, Jr., very quickly found himself blown away by the young man’s emotional openness. “It was so powerful that I kept forgetting it was over Skype. It felt like a live session.” The director wanted to see if this young performer could connect to the story. “I asked him if he had grandparents and something caught in his eye. I asked William what he was thinking of just then and he said, “Well yeah, I had a grandpa.” I asked him to tell me about him and – well, it was like a fire hydrant – an explosion of emotion and tears.” Bain relays what happened next. “I asked his parents if they would be comfortable if I did a scene with William from this place. And when we did, I’ve just never seen anything so powerful. It had so much energy – it was so raw, and it was so real. And I knew we had received a great gift: that’s our Milton.” William’s talent is definitely deep and beyond his years.

William began in the entertainment industry following his parent’s footsteps (Nicole Oliver, actress; Chris Ainscough, composer/film editor). It was after watching his mother in action during visits to the sets of some of her film projects that William’s interest in the acting world began. Nicole inspired him to try acting for himself and he began taking classes.

It was clear after booking his first two auditions that for William, acting was a path well chosen. William’s very first attempt at acting was a success, when he landed his first audition in an open casting call for the feature film Hidden. William was successful in landing the role of Joey, a slightly shy and soulful boy and close friend and neighbor of Zoe’s (Emily Alyn Lind). The feature film, which follows a family hiding in a bomb shelter after a mysterious outbreak devastates civilization, stars Alexander Skarsgard (True Blood, Battleship) and Andrea Riseborough (Oblivion, Made in Dagenham). The film Hidden was directed by The Duffer Brothers (Stranger Things).

William soon followed that experience with playing Billy on the CW/City TV series Seed for two seasons. William received many award nominations for Seed including a Leo Award and UBCP/ACTRA nomination. William won the Joey Award in 2014 for best leading role youth actor (9 and under) in a TV series Comedy/Action. Other recent highlights for William include playing the iconic role of John Darling in ABC’s Once Upon a Time, a major supporting role in Zapped the television feature for the Disney Channel starring the US pop music sensation and actor Zendaya, a guest star role in The Haunting Hour, and a supporting role in the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries original program The Christmas Secret. William is also the voice of Sean on the PBS Kids series Ready Jet Go, which has now been renewed for a second season.

William has just completed principal photography on Radu Mihaileanu’s sweeping epic, The History of Love, an adaptation of Nicole Krauss’ 2005 book of the same name. The movie will be the first English-language film for Radu Mihaileanu, a Bucharest-born French filmmaker whose previous film La Source des femmes competed at the Cannes film festival in 2011. William plays Bird Singer. He is a preoccupied, strangely serious child, concerned by the woes of the world; he is convinced he is a “lamed vovnik,” one of the thirty-six holy people, carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders, and perhaps even the Messiah.

William is currently working on the second season of the PBS Kids hit animation series Ready Jet Go, providing the voice for the character Sean. The new season will feature 24 new episodes, an hour-long special and a collection of new web games and mobile apps, and is set to launch in late 2017. Since Ready Jet Go’s February premiere, the series has reached 22 million viewers, including 7.6 million kids on linear TV, and its content has been streamed more than 93 million times since January. In addition to airing on PBS stations, full-length segments from the show are available for streaming on pbskids.org and on the free PBS KIDS Video app on a variety of mobile devices and on platforms such as Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Xbox One and Chromecast. The series is also on Amazon Prime Video.

Aside from acting, William is an accomplished drummer, loves soccer, Medieval combat and Parkour, and is a huge fan of the online game Minecraft.

For interviews, photos and more information please contact:
Lesley Diana | Lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca | 604-726-5575

William Ainscough Links:

Website: williamainscough.com
Imdb: imdb.com/name/nm5303080/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
Twitter: @will_ainscough

‘Milton’s Secret’ Links:
Website: miltonssecretmovie.com
Trailer: youtube.com/watch?v=EM5VPl-MVWs&feature=youtu.be
Facebook: facebook.com/MiltonsSecretMovie
Twitter: @MiltonsSecret

‘Milton’s Secret’ Theatrical Run – Friday September 30, 2016
Los Angeles – Arena Cinema
Denver – Westminster Promenade 24
Chicago – Streets of Woodfield 20
Houston – Willowbrook 24
Kansas City – Town Center 20
Philadelphia – Cherry Hill 24
Minneapolis-St. Paul – Iver Grove 16
Boston – Liberty Tree Mall 20
Seattle-Tacoma – Cascade Mall 14
San Franscio-Oak-San Jose – Deer Valley Stadium 16

‘Ready Jet Go’ Links:
pbskids.org/readyjetgo
variety.com/2016/tv/news/ready-jet-go-wind-dancer-second-season-1201839213

The Promotion People

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People
Instagram: @thepromotionpeople

Actor Gerald Auger is taking his film projects by storm with WE ARE: JUSTICE NATION, WINDCATCHER, LOST FACE, and ANICHKOV BRIDGE

Lost Face will screen at the Calgary International Film Festival on September 25, 2016.

Gerald Auger – actor, writer, producer, director, entrepreneur and motivational speaker of Woodland Cree descent from Alberta, Canada is taking his film projects by storm, continuing his mission to change the Hollywood stereotype of Indigenous people and how they are perceived. We Are: Justice Nation campaign, Windcatcher, Lost Face, and Anichkov Bridge are his latest additions taking new heights this fall. Awarded the National Native Role Model Award by the Governor General of Canada and as a recipient of the Rotary International Integrity Award for the Avenue of Nations in Alberta, Auger steps up to the plate as a man of high regard who is ready to change the face of Hollywood.

Auger’s standpoint is that Hollywood is still not representing people of color, especially the Indigenous in a respectful or authentic way. He signed on We Are: Justice Nation with Mindshadow Entertainment (mindshadowonline.com) and Windcatcher (WindcatcherTheMovie.com) because both projects respect and honor Indigenous people, language, culture and history. Auger also emphasizes the importance of the social media hashtag #Oscarsowhite as a movement towards the change needed in Hollywood to include people of all race and color equally.

Auger is the face behind We Are: Justice Nation that is an International campaign by Mindshadow Entertainment for the Superhero genre. They are currently working on a platform for this campaign that includes a comic book, an animated series and a feature film. We Are: Justice Nation is about the modern day hero and shero as the Voice of this generation and the next.

Windcatcher: The Story of Sacajawea is an epic film now in development by Spirit Wind Films. The Windcatcher project is the story of Lewis and Clark Expedition from Sacajawae’s perspective which for the first time is from an Indigenous woman’s perspective and has never been done before in Hollywood. Auger plays Chief Cameahwait. The Windcatcher team is devoted and passionate to not only Sacajawea and her story, but also to Indigenous languages, cultural preservation, and providing internships for Indigenous young people.

Photo Credit: Dark Mass Productions

Lost Face, starring Gerald Auger and Martin Dubreuil, alongside some of Canada’s finest indigenous talent, has so far experienced a fantastic and epic run on the 2016 short film circuit. Kicking off at the Cannes Métrage Short Film Corner, it has also been accepted into The LA Shorts Fest, Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF), Edmonton International Film Festival (EIFF), LA Lift Off Festival and the Canberra Short Fest in Australia. Lost Face has already recently won the Open category of the AFI/AACTA Social shorts online competition in Australia and will soon be featured on the prestigious Short of the Week website. Lost Face will be screening at the Calgary International Film Festival on September 25, 2016.

Anichkov Bridge which was filmed in St. Petersburg Russia is premiering on September 22, 2016. Anichkov Bridge is one of the stories from the Petersburg, A Selfie collection by director Natalia Kudryashova, which is a collection of 7 stories about Russia’s most beautiful city through the perspective of 7 women on the concept of love. Auger plays a Native American Spirit with a rockstar style who is encountered in the physical realm.

Auger has been working in the entertainment industry since being discovered at the opening ceremonies of the 1995 Canada Winter Games. He had a supporting role in Gunslinger’s Revenge with Harvey Kietel and the Late David Bowie, a lead role in the National Geographic IMAX-production Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West, Hallmark Entertainment TV miniseries Dreamkeeper. Steven Spielberg’s DreamWorks miniseries Into the West, CTV’s Luna: Spirit of The Whale, FUBAR 2, Western Confidential, The Plateau, CBC’s Strange Empire and AMC’s Hell on Wheels as Pawnee Killer.

Auger also produced and starred in the horror Bohemian Blood in which he plays an Indigenous Cult leader. He produced, wrote and also directed the short film Walking Alone for National Film Board, Aboriginal Peoples Television Network and CBC. His directorial debut with National Film Board of Canada documentary Honour Thy Father won Best Film Representing Cultural Diversity at the Alberta Motion Picture Industry Awards in 2009.

He worked on the sequel to his film Honour Thy Father, which deals with how Christianity has disconnected Indigenous spirituality in Indigenous country. He is currently producing a new series he developed and wrote The Ancients with Dark Mass Productions. A series about the coming of age of a young medicine man in the vampire genre. Auger continues to produce films, television series and documentaries aiming to advance the status and expose the stereotyping of his people. Auger latest roles are doing just that, playing an Indigenous Cult Leader in horror to a modern day Native American Spirit with a rock star style in Russia.

Auger has been on his spiritual journey for over 20 years. It has taught him that life is not what it seems in the physical world. That humanity needs to come together in unity and healing for the children and their children’s children. That the division being created by the human being is only going to lead to more chaos, confusion and mayhem in life for our children and those yet to be born.

Gerald is available for interviews and photographs upon request.

For more information and interview requests please contact:
Lesley Diana | Lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca | 604-726-5575

Gerald Auger Links

Website: geraldauger.ca
Twitter: @Auger1
Facebook: facebook.com/gerald.auger.7
Instagram: @geraldauger
Pinterest: pinterest.com/geraldauger
IMDb: imdb.com/name/nm1370064

Mindshadow Entertainment

Website: mindshadowonline.com
Twitter: @MindshadowTeam
Facebook: facebook.com/MindshadowTeam

Windcatcher: The Story of Sacajawea

Website: WindcatcherTheMovie.com
IMDb: imdb.com/title/tt2837492/fullcredits?ref_=tt_ov_st_sm
IMDb: imdb.com/title/tt2837492
Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/WindcatcherFilms

Lost Face
socialshorts.com.au/open
calgaryfilm.com
socialshorts.com.au/open/lost-face

Anichkov Bridge
ctb.ru/en/films/petersburg-tolko-po-lubvi

The Promotion People

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People
Instagram: @thepromotionpeople

ACTOR/WRITER/DIRECTOR/PRODUCER BEN RATNER’S HARD-HITTING SHORT FILM “GANJY” TO PREMIERE AT 2016 VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Multiple award-winning actor/writer/director and producer Ben Ratner is gearing up to debut his latest film Ganjy, which had him working both in front of, and behind, the camera. The dramatic short film will make its world premiere at the 2016 Vancouver International Film Festival.

Ganjy tells the story of a retired boxer, portrayed by Ratner, who is suffering from dementia pugilistica. The film follows what unfolds when his friends try to come to his aide – before it’s too late.

At advance screenings, industry experts have been knocked out. Award-winning writer/director of Facing Ali and I Am Bruce Lee, Pete McCormack says this about the film: “In Ganjy, Ben Ratner’s exquisite performance as the eponymous lead character tenderly but powerfully reminds us of the undeniable side-effects of the boxing trade.”

Bestselling author (“The Power of the Actor”) and acting coach Ivana Chubbuck worked with Sylvester Stallone for his Golden Globe winning, Academy Award nominated performance in Creed, and worked closely with Ratner as he prepared to play “Ganjy.” Says Chubbuck, “In his touching, yet unsentimental self-directed short film, Ganjy, Ben Ratner gives a performance, and directs a piece that is a testament to the human spirit. No matter how much battering, both emotionally and physically a human being can withstand — there is a survivor in all of us. Ganjy is this, and more.”

Ratner handpicked a group of Vancouver’s busiest actors – Aleks Paunovic, Zak Santiago and Donny Lucas – to play Ganjy’s former boxer friends. Ratner wrote the parts specifically for these film and TV veterans, all of whom were competitive amateur boxers in their younger days.

Ratner felt a very real connection to the film’s lead. “In some ways, I am Ganjy. I’ve been at this a long time, and I know what it feels like to take some hits from showbiz. But I’ve still got a whole lot of fight left and a whole bunch of stories in me, and with cast mates like Aleks, Zak, and Donny in my corner, along with my producing partners Tony Pantages and Helena Marie, I’m confident we can take this film out into the world and make an impact,” said Ratner.

One of the film’s producers, Tony Pantages, says this movie couldn’t come at a more pertinent time. “The topical subject matter of dementia, particularly in sports-related head injuries, and the recent passing of Muhammad Ali makes Ganjy hugely relevant, and in our opinion, very important at this time. Of course, when we shot the film we didn’t know Ali would pass away only months later as we were in our final post, but we were honored to be able to pay tribute to him with the film.”

Plans are being made to develop Ganjy into a feature film. In the meantime, a crowdfunding campaign is being launched to assist with the costs associated with the making of this short film, and get it the opportunity to be seen by a wide audience on the festival circuit.

The film was produced by Tony Pantages (of Glass Factory Pictures) and Ben Ratner (of Haven Films). Both are available for interviews upon request.

For interviews, photos and more information please contact:
Lesley Diana | Lesley@thepromotionpeople.ca | 604-726- 5575

Social Media Handles

Trailer #1: vimeo.com/179831341
Trailer #2: vimeo.com/179831337
Facebook: facebook.com/GanjyMovie
Twitter: @ganjymovie
Crowdfunding Campaign: indiegogo.com/projects/ganjy-film

The Promotion People

Website: thepromotionpeople.ca
Twitter: @PromotionPeople
Facebook: The Promotion People
Instagram: @thepromotionpeople

BEN RATNER – BIO

With over 100 film and TV credits, multiple award-winning actor/writer/director and producer Ben Ratner has starred in numerous feature films that have played at top international film festivals, including Sundance, Berlin and Toronto, and has had series regular, recurring and guest starring roles on TV shows in both the US and Canada. He will next be seen in a supporting lead role with Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson and Jacob Tremblay (Room) in Wonder, a feature film from Lionsgate, slated for release in April 2017.

As a writer-director, Ratner has helmed two award-winning, theatrically released feature films: Down River (9 wins and 12 nominations, including Best World Showcase Feature at the 2014 Soho International Film Festival, NYC) and Moving Malcolm (4 wins and 1 nomination, including Best Feature Film at the 2003 Washington D.C. Independent Film Festival). He also wrote and directed the short film Power Lunch (2006 Vancouver International Film Festival) and in 2005, directed an episode of the popular TV series Robson Arms for CTV.