The Firecracker Department

• Standing Bold in Comedy: Kathy Greenwood on Improv, Acting, and Breaking Barriers

  Firecracker Department Podcast: Kathy Greenwood In this episode, we welcome the phenomenal Kathy Greenwood—improviser, actor, and comedy trailblazer! As the first woman to receive the Canadian Comedy Award for Funniest Female Improviser, Kathy has been paving the way for women in comedy for decades. We dive into the importance of standing your ground on stage in improv, making bold choices, and trusting your comedic instincts. Kathy shares what it was like to fully immerse herself in a multi-dimensional role in Wind at My Back, bringing depth and heart to period drama. We also get the inside scoop on the non-stop, high-energy world of Whose Line Is It Anyway?, where four straight hours of improv tested the limits of creativity and endurance. And of course, we talk about the sheer joy of making comedy with your best friends in Women Fully Clothed, as well as her work in Ghosts and other incredible projects. 🔥 Don’t miss this laughter-filled, insight-packed episode! 🎧 Listen now!    

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• Elvira Kurt is always evolving

  Comedy icon Elvira Kurt joins us for a powerhouse conversation about aging in comedy, staying relevant, and the fearless boldness that has defined her career. She’s blazed the trail for so many comedians, proving that having something to say on stage only gets stronger with time. We talk about the courage it takes to keep pushing boundaries and why we are far from done—no matter our age! With a career spanning decades, Elvira’s one-of-a-kind wit and trailblazing spirit have shaped the comedy scene. From Baroness Von Sketch Show to The Debaters and Popcultured, she’s done it all. And the awards? A Canadian Comedy Award winner, a Gemini Award nominee, and a Women in Film & Television Award recipient—just to name a few. And she’s still going strong! Catch her on tour with the hilarious Girls Night Out comedy group alongside Diana Frances, Karen Parker, and Jennine Profeta 💥 Tune in for a conversation that’s inspiring, hilarious, and full of fire!

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• Aleysa Young has learned to trust her gut

  In this episode, we sit down with powerhouse director Aleysa Young, whose work has shaped some of the best comedy on TV. We dive into her journey as a director, the career-changing moment when she interviewed for Baroness von Sketch Show, and how she’s built a reputation for creating safe, playful, and dynamic sets where comedy can truly ignite. Aleysa shares insights on her process, the challenges of directing comedy, and the importance of fostering an environment where performers feel free to take risks. From New Eden to Workin’ Moms, The Kids in the Hall to Run the Burbs and North of North, Aleysa has left her mark on some of the most beloved and innovative comedy series. Her ability to bring out the best in actors while shaping hilarious and poignant storytelling has made her one of the most sought-after directors in the industry. Join us as we celebrate Aleysa Young’s career, her comedic instincts, and the way she continues to break barriers in the world of television.

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• Rosa Laborde shares her writing process and how she deals with burnout

  This week, we sit down with the powerhouse that is Rosa Laborde—award-winning playwright, screenwriter, director, and actor—whose work spans theatre, film, and television. We dive into the creative process, the magic (and challenges!) of collaborating with friends, and the drive to make things happen. But what happens when burnout hits? Rosa shares her experiences with creative burn out, how to recognize it, and the ways she recharges to keep the fire burning. With acclaimed plays like Interior Design, Light, True, Marine Life, and Leo, multiple Dora Award nominations for best new play, receiving the KM Hunter Artist’s Award for Theatre, and been a finalist for the Governor General’s Literary Award for Drama, along with screenwriting credits on The Spencer Sisters (CTV) and Sensitive Skin (HBO Canada), Rosa has left a powerful mark on the industry. With her latest series Nesting which she co-created, co-starred, and was showrunner for, she proves that her creative energy is unstoppable.  As an actor Rosa has played recurring roles on shows like Saving Hope, Regenesis, At the Hotel, History Bites (Gemini Nomination — now Canadian Screen Award), bringing her Rosa-charisma to every role. Don’t miss this inspiring, honest, and thought-provoking conversation.

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• Ashleigh Rains shares her creative journey from pointe shoes to production.

  Join us for an inspiring conversation with the multi-talented Ashleigh Rains!  Naomi and Ashleigh dive deep into her fascinating journey from classical ballet training at Canada's National Ballet School to her current success as an actress and award-winning producer. You'll hear all about her creative philosophy, how she balances multiple artistic pursuits, and the story behind founding C'mon Mort Productions!  This episode is packed with insights as Ashleigh shares her experiences working on hits like The Handmaid's Tale and My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2, plus her perspective as Festival Director and Head Programmer for @canfilmfest. Whether you're a fellow artist or simply love hearing about creative journeys, you won't want to miss this heartfelt discussion about prioritizing creativity and exploring multiple artistic paths! 

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