Allyson Leet is a passionate leader in the performing arts; she’s won Best Performer in the Comox Valley Readers Choice Awards, directed short films, and co-founded Sitka Stage & Screen where she instructs a talented group of students. Allyson has not only been in the Comox Valley’s theatre productions for over fifteen years, but has also starred in independent films, and worked on high budget productions like the CW’s Riverdale.

After receiving her BFA in Theatre from the University of Victoria, a Diploma in Acting for Film and Television from the Vancouver Film School, and spending a year representing Canada at Walt Disney World in Florida, she decided to open her own school to spread her love of acting and increase opportunities for her community. Allyson has watched her students grow from people with a curiosity for acting, to auditioning actors with agents. She gets the most excited when she sees her students realize their own potential! On the days she’s not teaching, you may have seen her as Ursula in Courtenay Little Theatre’s production of The Little Mermaid, on set, or attending one of her film’s screenings in movie theatres across the island. 

To dive deeper into Allyson’s story, read THIS article published by Trio Magazine or listen to her journey HERE on Episode #18 of the "Unpacking Potato" podcast.

A lifelong resident of the Comox Valley, Katie Clarkson’s love of theatre began at 5 in her first stage production. Many years and many productions later, Katie was fortunate to be in the touring cast of “Torn Rainbow”, a provincially funded youth project, promoting acceptance and diversity. Katie has taught with theatre companies locally and as far away as the United Arab Emirates. With over 10 years of teaching experience, Katie’s effective methods benefit a wide range of needs and learning styles. 

At 15, Katie founded Clarkson Photography, honing her style through hundreds of photoshoots that benefited local charities. She specialises in children’s fine art photography where the image tells a story. It was a natural progression to cinematography, and now Katie also creates music videos, short films, and marketing materials for clients worldwide. She has been a Top 30 Under 30 recipient, a finalist in numerous international photography competitions, and has had her work published in Shutter Magazine.

After a busy 2 years of photography in England, Katie returned to the Comox Valley in 2018. Realising that her skills complemented that of her childhood friend, Allyson Leet, Katie’s entrepreneurial spirit sparked a collaboration, and Sitka Stage & Screen was born.

Laurel Moffat has been dancing since the age of 7. Over the years, her love for the stage grew as she explored other mediums such as cheerleading and theatre in highschool and college, being cast in shows such as Chicago and AshGirl. Laurel’s dance background has allowed her to venture into many styles such as musical theatre, hiphop and jazz. Laurel has had the opportunity to mentor, coach and choreograph for both dance and cheerleading, teaching children and youth ages 6 to 12. After moving to the Comox Valley over 5 years ago Laurel was focused mostly on running her Coffee Shop business until meeting fellow art enthusiasts Katie and Allyson. With more time on her hands Laurel is super excited to be diving back into teaching and being a part of Sitka Stage & Screen.