Monique Renaud, General Manager of Globus Theatre, discovers new art and culture world outside of Toronto
In 2019, Monique was living in Toronto with her young son, renting a small apartment and working in the Arts. “As a single mom, it was not a sustainable option. My parents had a cottage in Omemee, Kawartha Lakes, and we loved visiting them. My parents got me tickets to Globus Theatre in Bobcaygeon, and when I struck up a conversation with James Barrett, the Artistic Producer, that night, it was a sign to me that there were options outside Toronto.”
Monique made the move to the Kawarthas and was hired on as General Manager of Globus Theatre. As a performer, Monique trained at the University of Windsor’s BFA Program, the National Ballet School of Canada, Moscow Art Theatre in Russia and the Stratford Theatre Festival. Having directed and produced plays in Toronto was a help, but it was the mentorship and guidance from James Barret, Artistic Producer, and Sarah Quick, Artistic Directors, of Globus Theatre, that have lifted her up. In less than two years, Monique was hooked on Kawartha Lakes.
“I was surprised there are so many professional artists in the area. Many have come from Toronto to work at Globus Theatre each summer and have decided to stay and make it home. We can live and work here successfully.” When asked why she loves her new role, Monique shares that it’s because the community highly values Globus Theatre. Youth, seniors and people from all ages in the community are taking part.
Culture is valued in the area, and strongly supported by the local business community.
Monique credits leaders in Kawartha Lakes for ensuring the theatre thrives, and notes Councillor Seymour-Fagan, owner of Kawartha Coffee Co., who sponsors SODA and attracts locals and tourists to a variety of musical and entertainment options, notably the popular Drag Queen nights.
“In Toronto, we were living in an apartment without green space. Now we have a huge property and freedom to go for a walk at any hour without fear. My son and I love kayaking, hiking and outdoor activities. To have a backyard has improved our quality of life in a big way.”
We’d love for you to meet some more of our residents who made the jump:
- Erica Ehm, Ehm & Co.
- Matt Geraghty, Matty G Digital
- Paulette Sopoci, Strategic Coach
- Rupinder Dhaliwal, Fenelon Dental
- Sandra Langford, Bobcaygeon Bakery
Learn more about the wide variety of recreation, entertainment and outdoor adventure opportunities in Kawartha Lakes.
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