Born and raised in Quispamsis, Kirsten makes her New Brunswick stage debut in Norm Foster’s new comedy, Come Down From Up River, November 8-10 at the Fredericton Playhouse.

Kirsten is a graduate of Vancouver’s Studio 58, the professional theatre training program at Langara College, and has built her career acting on stages from coast to coast. Over the past 20 years she has appeared on some of the country’s biggest stages and has acted in an impressive range of film and television productions. But despite forging an admirable career as a professional Canadian actor, Kirsten has never appeared on stage in her home province of New Brunswick.  That’s all about to change when The Foster Festival’s production of Come Down From Up River hits the Fredericton Playhouse stage November 8-10.

We reached out to Kirsten to learn a bit more about her, her work and her experience acting in this new comedy by Norm Foster.

Welcome home! Tell us about your New Brunswick hometown and one thing you love about it.

I grew up in Quispamsis, which is a suburb of Saint John. Our home was situated on the Kennebecasis River. Looking back, I’m so thankful to have been brought up in the countryside— we had horses, and apple trees and…. the space and freedom to connect with nature.

How did you first get involved in acting?

I was majoring in music at Bishop’s University, and I basically took an Acting class as an easy credit. Before long, I was hooked! I was in several productions in university and then went on to study Theatre at Studio 58, in Vancouver, BC.

Have you acted on stage in New Brunswick before?

No. So, this is very exciting for me!

Can you share a few thoughts on the play ‘Come Down From Up River’ and what you’ve enjoyed most about the production?

Come Down From Up River is a funny, poignant, modern family drama. I can personally relate to the different themes within the play.  I’ve really enjoyed the audience feedback – we’ve had some great talk back sessions! There’s nothing more rewarding than being a part of something that resonates strongly and/or creates some great discussion when the curtain falls.

If you had to pick one theme or message as an audience ‘take away’ from this show, what would it be?

I’ve got a couple…. 1. Love is Love. 2. The play is about communication and not making assumptions.

Come Down From Up River runs Nov. 8-10 at the Fredericton Playhouse. Buy Tickets