By Chloe Scott, Communications Manager

​For the past decade, Kaitlyn Gruetzner has been the heart and soul of Sutherland Secondary’s theatre program. Ms. G—as she is affectionately known by her students—has cultivated a space where learners of all backgrounds can find their place, whether on stage or behind the scenes. 

In reflection on what initially brought them into the theatre program, Grade 12 student Julia Ferraz shared, “Initially, I was seeking an opportunity to make friends, and instead, I found family here.” For fellow classmate Shea Jackson, it was his elementary school music teacher who first inspired and encouraged him to step into the world of theatre, and it was the friendships and connections he made that kept him involved throughout his high school experience.

Grade 12 student Kerensa Cooper had already garnered some film and television acting experience while in elementary school, so enrolling in Sutherland’s drama program upon transitioning to high school was a natural fit. “There was an excitement moving from elementary school that this is what I would get to be part of.” Mclaren Nelson-Quine, also in Grade 12, can relate. “I was into it from a young age. I was enrolled in dance classes and loved musical theatre.”

Julia, Shea, Kerensa and Mclaren all agreed that one of the highlights of their time in Ms. G’s classroom has been the opportunity to see and support others in their individual growth. From playwriting to directing, and film acting to stage productions, the safe space theatre creates to take risks and explore emotions is central to their shared experience. 

Now veterans of the Sutherland stage, these senior students are ready to pass the torch to the next cast of theatre students. When asked if they had any advice to share with elementary students soon to transition into secondary school and curious about theatre, Ms. G’s students had some words of wisdom. “Don’t be nervous to put yourself out there and have fun,” Shea shared. “It’s a continuous cycle of always elevating yourself.”

“Grade eight me would not be doing what I’m doing now!” Mclaren shared with a laugh, a sentiment echoed by her classmates. “Theatre has made my high school experience.”