Celebrating 30 years,

Next Generation Showcase team is posed around a piano on a stage. They all have different poses and are smiling at the camera.

Next Generation Showcase Team (from left to right)

Adriano Bertuzzo- Creative Director, Will Parry- Social Media Manager, Raeburn Ferguson- Managing Director, Jade Silman- Administrative Assistant, Rachel Kennedy- Producer.

Next Generation Showcase is a program dedicated to showcasing and supporting emerging acting talent in their journey toward success in the Film and Theatre industry. Our program offers a dynamic weekend experience filled with panels, workshops, and networking opportunities. We take pride in providing a platform for actors to shine through auditions, giving agents, artistic directors, casting directors, producers, and other industry representatives an exclusive opportunity to discover new faces and perspectives. Join us as we bring together a vibrant community of aspiring actors, forging connections and fostering growth in the ever-evolving world of acting.

Five panelists sit in a semi circle on a stage in front of a red curtain.

Industry Panel 2023:

Andrew Lamb, Weyni Mengesha, Herbie Barnes, Ryan G. Hinds, Tovah Small

Mission

Our mission at Next Generation Showcase is to provide a platform for emerging artists to demonstrate their talent and connect them with industry leaders. We strive to create an inclusive and supportive community that fosters creativity, growth, and success. Through our events, workshops, and networking events we aim to empower artists to achieve their goals and make a positive impact in the world through their art.

History

Next Generation Showcase (NGS)  is the rebranded and reimagined Theatre Ontario Showcase. In 2019 when Theatre Ontario wound down operations the board of directors approached then Co-Executive Director, Raeburn Ferguson to continue the program. Since taking over, Raeburn has been dedicated to bringing high-quality, inclusive programming that resonates and aligns with the current needs of the industry. 

October 2019: Theatre Ontario winds down operations, Raeburn becomes Managing Director of what is now Next Generation Showcase. 

January 2020: The first NGS under the branding is presented in partnership with TAPA. 

Fall 2020: NGS welcomes Rachel Kennedy, Producer.

January 2021: NGS is presented online during COVID-19 pandemic. Programming is expanded to present four panels and three workshops. 

Summer 2021: NGS welcomes schools from Western Canada into Showcase.

NGS expands the administration team to welcome Jade Silman, Administrative Assistant and Will Parry, Social Media Manager and Coffee House Program Administrator.

January 2022: Another NGS is produced online. 

January 2023: NGS returns to in-person activities. 

Fall 2023: NGS welcomes three new schools into the program. 

Disclaimer:

Next Generation Showcase is an annual program designed to connect emerging artists with prospective networking and employment opportunities. Next Generation Showcase assumes no responsibility and will not be held liable for the actions of industry guests or program alumni during future meetings, interviews, auditions, etc., that may come as a result of this program. Next Generation Showcase asks that all participants and industry guests conduct themselves in the spirit of fairness, safety, and inclusion for all, and maintains the right to ask any guests not adhering to these values to leave the event.