Christine Cushing

Christine Cushing is an expert chef and a veteran of the food television industry.

Trained as a chef at George Brown College, Christine went on to graduate at the top of her class at the Paris based Ècole de Cuisine La Varenne. Her experience in France forever changed her food philosophy and strengthened her resolve to follow a career in the culinary arts. She has cooked in such renowned kitchens as Toronto's Four Seasons Hotel, King Ranch Health Spa and Scaramouche Restaurant. She also successfully launched her own business focusing on catering, recipe development and food styling.

Christine is a widely respected food television personality – in the last decade, she's hosted three different television series and has been a guest on countless other shows. Fearless in the Kitchen is her latest TV adventure. This new W Network and VIVA series has Christine taking self-professed terrible cooks from hopeless to fearless as they learn to cook a fabulous meal for family and friends. In the show, Christine is the fearless leader who dispenses food-savvy tips, techniques and tools with a side of sisterly, "You can do it!".

Christine has served as a spokesperson for Cook for the Cure Breast Cancer campaign and a superhero for the Starbright Foundation for Sick Kids hospital.

Christine has also published two best-selling cookbooks, Dish it Out and Fearless in the Kitchen, and a third, called Pure Food, which won a Gourmand world cookbook award in Spain.

Jane Lockhart

Jane makes it all seem so easy.

Her broad-based knowledge of colour, design and style in addition to her understanding of the needs of homeowners have made her an authority--on TV, in print and in personal appearances--on how to set a personal style in the home. It's not just her knowledge that people respond to; Jane takes the mystery out of design-talk with a straight forward approach that inspires even beginners to bring style into their homes.

In 1994 and 2000, Jane collaborated with Benjamin Moore Paint in the production of two best selling project design books: Paint a Great Impression and Room Recipes-Cooking Up Style with Colour, respectively. Combined, both books sold over 500,000 copies in Canada!

Television work has been extensive for Jane including several years as a regular guest on CityTV's Cityline and CBC's "What on Earth". In 1997 Jane co-hosted the successful Canadian HGTV Canada series, "One House, Two Looks" for six years. Currently she hosts and designs for the W Network's very successful, "Colour Confidential" now over 100 episodes in production and still going!

She is a much sought-after speaker for her high energy and engaging style. She is frequently quoted in media for her design and colour expertise.

John Moore

John is host of Moore in the Morning on Canada's most listened to talk radio station NewsTalk 1010. He also hosts the television show Guy Stuff, antagonizes the readers of The National Post with liberal columns and tends to the demands of his terrier. In a previous life he appeared in The Whole Nine Yards, The Day After Tomorrow and a shopping list of really awful B list productions.

John volunteers to host only a few charity events every year but because he and Darrin's dogs are half siblings he couldn't possibly say no.

Liz West

Liz has been bringing viewers across Canada a closeup look at the biggest names in showbiz, as Entertainment Specialist for CityNews, Star Daily and CP24.

She has Co-Hosted TIFF: STAR! SCHMOOZE, CITYTV'S NEW YEARS EVE BASH and LIVE! AT THE GENIES along with regular guest appearances on BREAKFAST TELEVISION.

After studying communications in College, Liz began her entertainment journey working for concert mogul Michael Cohl's CONCERT PRODUCTIONS INTERNATIONAL, allowing her to travel all over the world with musical acts.

Her career spans her first self produced variety show WEST END LIVE to CTV'S ENOW, CANADA AM and Gate 5 Live.

Liz is currently the host of Cosmo TV's RAGES TO RED CARPET, which gives women of all ages a chance to feel like a star. The mother of two is also campaigning to be City Councillor, Ward 30 Toronto-Danforth.

Lee Poulin

Lee most recently spent the summer in PEI as the Stage Manager of the Young Company and as an apprentice Stage Manager on Hairspray at the Charlottetown Festival. In the past, he stage managed the 2009 Fringe hit Hipcheck the Musical, the Creative Places + Spaces conference, the Voices Within Walls fundraiser and he was the Production Manager for the upcoming film, Above the Knee. Lee has been an Assistant Director, an Acting coach, and Teacher's Assistant for various classes at the Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts, from where he is a graduate. His directing debut of Michel Tremblay's For the Pleasure of Seeing Her Again, received a 4 star review from Eye Weekly and sold out its final week of shows.

As a Dancer and Choreographer, Lee has worked with singers Jacynthe and Emjay on numerous music videos, for live performances in Haiti, across Canada, with Disney MGM Studios, as the opening act on the Backstreet Boys tour, and for appearances on Much Music and Musique Plus. Other performing credits include Conrad Birdie in Bye, Bye Birdie, Napthali /The Butler in Joseph and the…Dreamcoat, Macduff in Macbeth, Sonny in Grease, Guy in Homeward Bound, and John Proctor in The Crucible.

Lee is thrilled that HEART & MUSIC is in its second year and growing strong. He would like to send out tremendous thanks and gratitude to everyone that continues to believe in this vision by sharing their talent, heart, and music. To those we've known and lost, and to those battling this disease.

Jeff Dimitriou

Jeff is a Choreographer based in Toronto, Canada.

His success has taken him worldwide with film and television projects such as SuckerPunch, So You Think You Can Dance Canada, Girl Walks Into A Bar, and Human Target. Theatre favorites include Cabaret, Candide, High School Musical, and Chess.

Currently, Jeff is Associate Choreographer on the hit CW television series Hellcats. Special thanks to The QC, for becoming the artists tool and participating in such a great event.

Jeff is honored to be part of the planning committee for HEART & MUSIC. He looks forward to many more years of success with HEART & MUSIC. His work with the foundation is dedicated to his mother, Patricia Dimitriou, who passed away from cancer, August 25, 2009.

Alana Bridgewater

Toronto's Alana Bridgewater is a singer/songwriter who discovered her love of performing at a very early age. She was a member of the Canadian Children's Opera Chorus, Toronto Mendelssohn Youth Choir and The Nathaniel Dett Chorale.

She attended the University of Windsor studying with Steven Henrikson and Richard Householder.

Alana performed in Women's Blues Revue (1998, 2008). She was the voice for the 2008 Olympic Bid Song. In 2006, she joined the Gospel Christmas Project (CBC TV) where she was nominated for a Gemini Award. Recently, Alana performed at the Young Centre For Performing Arts in an historical event called The Sistahs Concert. In 2010, Alana will be seen as Mrs Nicholls, a recurring character, on Nickelodeon's "Dino Dan". List of recent credits: Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray(Charlottetown); Killer Queen in We Will Rock You (Mirvish); Lion in The Wizard Of Oz (Grand Theatre); Power Woman (Menopause Out Loud!) Featured Performer in Gospel Christmas Project (National Arts Centre, Massey Hall); Featured Performer Broadway and Beyond with Colm Wilkinson (Town Hall, NYC).

Alana's debut CD "Horizon" can be purchased on ITunes.

Amanda Morra

Amanda Morra is ready for the world, bringing her fresh new sound to the charts and airwaves.

Already having released her first album in Canada and the US in 2009, she is now cultivating her own brand of infectious dance hooks, urban R&B melodies, and intimate ballads set to be released on her sophmore album later this year with Costa Music Inc.

Amanda is formally trained in jazz, tap, ballet, hip-hop and her desire to perform for the public has also led her to sing at the welcome reception for Canada’s Juno Awards in Vancouver, 2009, among her peers.

Amanda’s first single “Dreams” hit the airwaves across Canada in 2009. Her second single “1 and Only” went international, spreading her infectious vibe to the USA and Australia.

Amanda is currently in the studio recording her second album with songwriters and producers from around the world. They have collectively worked with pop stars like Nelly Furtado, Britney Spears, Kylie, and The Backstreet Boys, just to name a few. Armed with internationally acclaimed top line writer/producer Jasmine Denham (Baird), they have co-written an album that is no less than a massive leap from the first, having now discovered an edge to Amanda’s voice and persona.

The first single “KISSES”, Currently on the US airwaves, is set for worldwide release in the summer of 2010.

Blake McGrath

Originally from Mississauga, Ontario, Blake McGrath returns as judge and choreographer for Season 3. Currently residing in Los Angeles, McGrath continues to take the entertainment industry by storm. At the age of 26, McGrath has already shared the stage with Madonna, Janet Jackson, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé, Mariah Carey and more.

Best known for his memorable appearances on the first season of So You Think You Can Dance in the United States where he was a finalist, McGrath has also appeared on Jennifer Lopez's TV series Dance Life. McGrath's film credits include the Academy Award-winning film "Chicago" and the musical "Rent." McGrath also has extensive commercial experience, appearing in commercials for Gap, Old Navy, Pepsi, Hummer and iPod, to name a few. And if that wasn't enough, McGrath released a DVD, entitled "Dance Driven," co-owns Coastal Dance Rage, one of the world's largest dance conventions, and is releasing his debut music album Time To Move with music industry power house Universal Music Canada this fall.

Throughout two seasons on the show, McGrath has created some of the most moving contemporary routines and is never afraid to speak his mind. As the choreographer throughout the audition tour, McGrath has instilled fear in many dancers who end up working with him during Blake's Boot Camp.

judyINC proudly sponsors Blake's performance at HEART & MUSIC.

Cadence Progressive Contemporary Ballet

Cadence has been a fresh new voice in the Toronto dance community since it’s incorporation in June 2009. Under the Artistic Direction of Courtnae Bowman, the companyexplores interdisciplinary collaborations; produces innovative, visually stimulating, and athletic dance work with a strong connection to the ballet aesthetic as a tool; creates dance which is accessible and engaging to a range of audiences nationally and internationally; develops dance professionals by exposing them to a range of choreographic styles and processes.

Cadence is a company that commissions and collaborates with other artists under the artistic vision of Courtnae Bowman. Commissioned choreographers and other artists brought in to work with Cadence work with a core of dancers who share the company’s goal - to create work that induces discussion, and is interesting, relevant and poignant.

The company is currently composed of dancers whose backgrounds include ballroom, hip-hop, modern, ballet and jazz. This variety provides the artists who work with the dancers, a community that knows no boundaries. Over the past year the company has expanded our pre-professional mentorship program, programming four sessions throughout the year; we have developed four outreach programs to expose children to the physical work the company performs; launched the second installment of Cadence City Connect which initiates collaborations with choreographers from across Canada; commissioned eight new works; launched Series of Twelve, a collaboration with film Director Jonathan Lawley to produce a short film every month for a year; and has continued to offer open company classes to the community.

Jacqueline Sadler

Jacqueline enjoys a diverse career in the arts as a Music Director, Composer and Arranger, Accompanist, and Adjudicator. Her performances have taken her to stages across Canada. On stage, selected credits include: Rachel in Two Pianos, Four Hands (Charlottetown Festival, Ontario Tour, Lighthouse Festival Theatre, Port Stanley Festival Theatre), Rita in Cowgirls (Waterloo Stage Theatre, Victoria Playhouse Petrolia, Stage West Calgary, Georgian Theatre Festival) and as The Woman in Brian McKay’s Come By The Hills (WST, GTF, Theatre Collingwood, Theatre Aquarius).

She has appeared as Soprano Soloist with the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony and the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra. Jacqueline is the Music Director for the Charlottetown Festival’s Young Company. Her composition for the Young Company, We Will Call it Home was performed at the 2009 Canada Games and the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

Other Music Direction credits include shows with: Theatre & Company, Theatre New Brunswick, Thousand Islands Playhouse, The University of Waterloo, Queen’s University, and Victoria Playhouse Petrolia. In addition to compositions and arrangements for choirs and soloists, Jacqueline has written two musicals: Trailer Park Trio and Oil Rush. She is currently working on her third musical, Sunshine!, premiering in 2012. Jacqueline is currently on faculty at the Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts, and is the Music Director for Eastminster United Church in Toronto.

Jesse Labelle

He went from battling bands to fending off marriage proposals. “Perfect Accident” the aptly named first single from Toronto native, Jesse Labelle’s debut outing may just be the best description of his musical journey to this point. So it’s no surprise that it made Top 10 on the iTunes Top Pop Songs chart.

Starting with his earliest recollections of childhood, listening to stories and seeing old Toronto Star ads and show bill posters of his professional jazz singer grandmother, it would seem Jesse’s penchant for writing and performance was etched into his genetic blueprint. In recent years there have been a series of “Perfect Accidents” that led Jesse to the release of this album. Since that release, Jesse has been awarded the “Emerging Artist” rotation with the CHUM network of radio stations across Canada for the month of August 2010 and he performed at the Vancouver Olympics on the MuchMusic/CTV outdoor stage.

He has been working hard to show fans just how important music is to him. The album is comprised of a dozen songs that each stand alone as individual vignettes that tell their own story but have a common thread of love both lost and found running through them. Musically the album is big, big hooks, big sweeping chorus’ and big production, but lyrically it’s incredibly intimate reflecting a range of emotions that move from loss and vulnerability, to hope and strength.

His ability to make a real connection with the listener through his songs is what sets him apart. One thing is certain Jesse’s talent as a songwriter and performer is anything but an “accident”. It comes from years of honing his craft, scores of live performances and years of developing his skills as a gifted songwriter. His vision is clear and his feet are now firmly planted on the road to success.

Stephen Carrasco

Stephen Carrasco has been singing and dancing professionally for the past eight years. He has traveled throughout the United States performing in regional theaters, theme parks, national touring companies, and even the Broadway stage. Most recently, Stephen was seen in the first national tour of Young Frankenstein, directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Susan Stroman.

In the fall of 2008, he made his Broadway debut in Irving Berlin's White Christmas, directed by Tony Award winner Walter Bobbie. Originally from Okemos Michigan, Stephen now permanently resides in New York City. Since moving to NYC, he has worked with such Choreographers as Randy Skinner (Tony Nominated Choreographer for White Christmas, the revival of 42nd Street, and Ain't Broadway Grand), Warren Carlyle (Director/Choreographer of the recent Broadway revival of Finian's Rainbow, as well as A Tale of Two Cities), Patti Colombo (Choreographer of the Broadway revival of Peter Pan starring Cathy Rigby), Michael Lichtefeld (Choreographer of Broadway’s Little Women, and The Secret Garden), Noah Racey, Peggy Hickey, and more. HUGE THANKS to Darrin and Lee for allowing Stephen to be a part of such an incredible event. It's evenings like this that help to change the lives of people all over the world.

The Queen Street Conservatory

Director: Leanne Duscio

The Queen Street Conservatory provides an outstanding advanced training program for dancers of all ages leaning towards a professional career, and quality voice instruction. Our faculty devote a significant amount of time teaching at the Conservatory and continue to excel in their respective fields on a professional level which inspires our students. The QC also offers an exceptional recreational program to spread the love of dance.

We are privileged to train in a 126 year old heritage building in downtown Kitchener which has been restored to enhance the sophistication and beauty of its original features. Spectacular high ceilings dripping with multiple crystal chandeliers wrapped in turn of the century mouldings is what makes the Conservatory so exquisite.

We are honoured to be invited to perform “El Payende”.

Theo Tams

A native of Coaldale Alberta, Theo set off in 2008 to his first Canadian Idol audition in Calgary with not only a sense of fear and intrepidation but also the determination that this is something he wanted and needed. The rest is history and in May 2009, the University of Lethbridge classical music major launched his debut pop album ‘Give It All Away’ (Sony). To date, three singles, “Lazy Lovers” and “Wait For You”, have been released from the album; these two titles enjoyed top 5 success and are in regular core rotation on AC radio stations across Canada. The third single ‘Manhattan Blue’ has just been released and is gaining traction at radio.

This summer, Theo performed in Afghanistan for the troops on Canada Day, before setting off on an extensive Canadian tour where he played intimate venues to great reviews from fans and industry alike. With winter ahead, he will be back to writing for his sophomore album slated for release next year.

A Gemini nominated performer and multi-faceted artist, Theo Tams’ unique piano; singer/songwriter style demonstrates that he is clearly an artist with the talent and tenacity to sustain a long and substantial career.

Please visit http://www.theotams.com/ for more information.

CIBC proudly sponsors Theo's performance at HEART & MUSIC.

Jersey Boys Toronto

After a very successful two-year run at the Toronto Centre for the Arts, cast members of the Dancap helmed Toronto production of the Tony Award-winning musical JERSEY BOYS will reunite once again for HEART & MUSIC.

Ma-Anne Dionisio

Philippine-born actress, Ma-Anne Dionisio, is best known for her performance as 'Kim' in the Canadian Premiere production of Miss Saigon for which she was nominated the Dora Mavor Moore Award for "Best Actress in a Musical. After the show's two-year run in Toronto's Princess of Wales Theatre, she moved on to play the role in the Australian Premiere at Sydney's Capitol Theatre. She then joined the international touring company of Les Miserables, performing the role of 'Eponine' in Singapore, Korea, Hong Kong and South Africa. Shortly after, she reprised her role as 'Kim' in the London production of Miss Saigon at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane and later, simultaneously performed the role of 'Bertrande' in Martin Guerr at the Prince Edward Theatre.

Some of her other credits Maria' in West Side Story (Stratford Festival), 'Dot' in Sunday in the Park with George (Equity Showcase), 'Eponine' in Les Miserables US National Tour (US, China and Korea),'Kim' in Miss Saigon (Pittsburgh CLO), 'Mei-Li' (cover) in the Broadway production of Flower Drum Song, and ‘Mary Magdalene’ in Jesus Christ Superstar (Starlight Theatre, Kansas City).

CIBC proudly sponsors Ma-Anne's performance at HEART & MUSIC.

Robin Calvert

Robin Calvert was born and raised in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and graduated with honors from the Ryerson Theatre Dance Program.

Favorite performance credits include; Schwartzy in 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Drayton Entertainment); Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, The Mayor’s Wife in Seussical, Zaneeta in The Music Man (Theatre Aquarius); Eugene Onegin (Canadian Opera Company); Joseph… (Stage West, Drayton Entertainement); Anne of Green Gables (Confederation Centre for the Arts); Disco Cirque, British Invasion 1 and 2, Canada Rocks, Something Wonderful (CCFA); and a soloist in CJ8 (Harbourfront Centre – tour of Canada and Japan).

Robin is the assistant director and choreographer for the Charlottetown Festival Confederation Centre. Her recent choreography credits include; 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Drayton Entertainment); Pippin and The Music Man (Sheridan College); The Falsettos (Sheridan College); In Brief… (Harbourfront Studio Theatre); Emotional Cigarettes (fFIDA); Rocky VI (fFIDA); and Trane of Thought… (id Danse).

Robin teaches master classes, workshops and adjudicates all over Canada.

Renee Brode

Renée has designed lighting for shows in Canada and internationally.

Recently she has designed for Neptune Theatre (Romeo and Juliet), The Charlottetown Festival (Anne, Buddy, Hairspray), The Grand Theatre (Wizard of Oz, Legends), Theatre Aquarius (Doubt, Half Life), Obsidian Theatre/Canadian Stage Company/Citadel (Intimate Apparel), and Canadian Opera Company Ensemble (Cosi Fan Tutte). She has also designed with Globe Theatre, Opera Ontario, Toronto Operetta Theatre, Lighthouse Festival, Canadian Opera Company, and Stratford Festival.

Recent touring designs have taken her to Venezuela and Japan. Renee graduated from York University with a BFA in Theatre Design.

She is a member of Associated Designers of Canada.

Marysia Bucholc

In the past three years Marysia has designed sets for Little Murders (Riverdale), A Delicate Balance (Alumnae), Pride and Prejudice (Alumnae), Adam’s Attic (Bespoke Theatre), A Streetcar Named Desire (Upper Canada Repertory Company), Daughter of the House (Alumnae), One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (Randolph Academy) and For the Pleasure of Seeing Her Again (Alumnae).

She received a Dora nomination in 2006 for her design for Kafka and Son (Theaturtle). She also works in the audio library at the CNIB, designs and creates stained glass windows and rejoices in her wonderful family. She is delighted to be working alongside so many talented people united in determination and hope.

Alana Hibbert

Alana is a singer, actor and musician based out of Toronto. Most recently she was featured as a lead vocalist in the hit production Livin’ on the Edge at Revival Theatre. She has performed extensively in theatres across Canada including three seasons at the Charlottetown festival performing in shows such as Hairspray, Anne of Green Gables, Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, Disco Cirque and British Invasion II.

Alana is honored to be a part of Heart & Music and dedicates this performance to her grandma.

Craig Fair

Craig is so honoured to be a part of this special night and sharing the stage with such a talented group of people.

Most recently he finished producing the first production of Livin' On The Edge, a rock revue combining the passion of song and dance, 4 pianos, a 7 piece band and 8 dancers. It was conceived, directed and choreographed by himself and Robin Calvert.

Craig is currently performing in A Christmas Carol at Theatre Aquarius in Hamilton. Thank you so much to Lee for asking me to be a part of this wonderful night. It's a privilege to be here.

Eastminster United Choir

The Eastminster United Choir, under the direction of Jacqueline Sadler, makes their home at Eastminster United Church in the heart of Danforth Village. The Choir is comprised of four professional soloists: Michelle Piller, soprano; Joy Klopp, alto; Scott Pietrangelo, tenor; and Kyle Macdonald, bass; and a dedicated team of pro-am singers that truly bring both heart and music to the ensemble.

Singing everything from Bach to Broadway, the Choir has raised thousands of dollars over the years for such worthy causes as Out of the Cold, Sick Kids’ Hospital, the relief effort in Haiti, and Toronto Greening Initiatives.

The Choir is thrilled to take part in Heart & Music.

Urban Flute Ensemble

Flutist Jamie Thompson, violinist Max Scheinin and cellist Lucas Tensen formed their ensemble in the summer of 2009 and, shortly after, began presenting monthly concerts at St. Anne’ s Church. Rev. Lance Dixon has praised the group for “creating public space that fosters community through the spirit of creativity.” The Annex Gleaner has written that “An irreverent artistic sensibility, consummate musicianship, a love of architecture and dedication to community values are what make UFE’ s approach to classical performance unique.”

In addition to its ongoing work at St. Anne’ s, UFE has opened for singer-songwriter acts at the Free Times Café; performed as a back-up band at Dundas Square and The Annex Live; and been featured in concert series at St. James Cathedral, Harbourfront Centre, Mount Pleasant Cemetery, and Wilfrid Laurier University. The group has been featured on CBC 2 Radio, and in The Annex Gleaner and Spacing Magazine’ s monthly podcasts. UFE is now in the process of recording a full-length CD, to be released in December.

Urban Flute Ensemble runs the musical gamut: its members improvise and compose; delve deep into Bach and present original arrangements of Radiohead songs; and play little-known gems by Canadian modernists like Harry Somers and Russian Romantics like Alexander Borodin. The musically omnivorous UFE never assembles two programs that are alike.

Upcoming Performances : Creemore – Nov. 21 at 3 p.m., King City – Dec. 3 at 7.30 p.m., St. Anne’ s Church, Toronto – Dec. 5 at 2 p.m. and The Annex Live, Toronto – Dec. 10 at 8 p.m.