About Us

Thorold Theatre has been entertaining audiences in the Niagara Region since 1986. Over the years, we’ve grown into a vibrant, community-focused organization dedicated to bringing high-quality live theatre to our patrons. As a not-for-profit group, we thrive on the support of ticket sales and the generosity of community-minded businesses and individuals.

Embracing New Beginnings: In 2023, we said goodbye to our long-time performance space, but our passion for theatre remains steadfast. Today, as a “Vagabond Theatre,” we embrace the adventure of bringing our productions to new venues across Niagara. This change has inspired creativity and strengthened our bond with the community we love.

Our Strengths:

• Professionalism: With over three decades of experience, we deliver productions that rival professional theatre, featuring talented actors (some with television and film credits), exceptional sets, and dedicated crews.
• Connection: For years, thousands of loyal patrons have joined us for our shows, and we’re proud to be a cherished part of Niagara’s cultural landscape.
• Accessibility: Membership is free, and we welcome everyone to join us as volunteers, audience members, or supporters.

Looking Ahead: In 2025, we’re excited to introduce new members to our executive team and continue our tradition of excellence. Auditions and show announcements are shared on our Facebook page, and we promote our productions through radio, television, email, and direct mail. Stay connected and be part of our journey!

We can’t wait to welcome you to our next performance. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering us for the first time, Thorold Theatre is here to entertain, inspire, and celebrate the power of live theatre in Niagara.

Stephanie Menicanin, Secretary and Board Chair

A native of Niagara, Stephanie is the owner and operator of “The Lunch Lady” in Welland, a business that caters meals for daycares, schools, Meals on Wheels, and special events. Stephanie has been deeply involved in the Niagara Arts Community, joining the Port Colborne Operatic Society in 2000 and serving on their Executive Board since 2003. She has been a member of the Thorold Theatre Executive Board since 2018.

Her love for community theatre began after a friend’s invitation, which led her to discover the vibrant world of musical theatre. With a classical music background, she was fascinated by the experience of live community theatre. At Thorold Theatre, she has contributed in various backstage roles, including prompts, Stage Manager, and Sound Tech. She is currently the recording secretary and Chair of the Executive Board of Directors.

Stephanie is excited about the future of Thorold Theatre, especially the challenges of opening new venues and avenues for the group. As a member of a “vagabond” theatre group, she is eager to use her organizational and planning skills to help Thorold Theatre succeed. Outside of theatre and her business, Stephanie is the music director at the Parish Community of St. Kevin in Welland, a soloist with the Jimmy Marando Swing Band, and a member of several choral groups. She is also the proud mother of four young men and wife to a very patient husband.

Marilyn Colbert, Community Ambassador

Marilyn Colbert, married to her husband Jim for over 40 years, is a passionate supporter of Thorold Theatre and an avid card player. Marilyn and Jim share a love for games and community, which has translated beautifully into her longstanding dedication to the theatre.

Marilyn’s journey with theatre began in 1969 when she attended her very first play while traveling in Florida with her first husband. The performance left her in awe, igniting a lifelong passion for the performing arts. A few years later, Marilyn’s stepdaughter, Charlene, was cast in a Thorold Theatre production and asked for help with costume changes. Marilyn eagerly agreed, but her involvement quickly grew. From flipping lights to working concessions and assisting with clean-up, she discovered a deep connection to the group and saw its immense potential.

Over the years, Marilyn became a key figure in Thorold Theatre. She transitioned from volunteer roles to becoming a Producer and eventually joined the Executive as Treasurer. Her tireless contributions, warm presence, and commitment to the theatre made her the de facto face of Thorold Theatre, representing our organization with grace and enthusiasm.

For over 30 years, Marilyn dedicated herself to helping our theatre thrive, from assisting with countless productions to witnessing the joy of audiences laughing on opening night. After stepping away following the loss of our venue, Marilyn remains a vital advocate for the group as we work toward securing a new home.

Daniel Willis – President

Over nearly two decades, Dan Willis has contributed significantly to the regional theatre community, wearing many hats as an actor, director, producer, and executive leader. Currently serving as President of Thorold Community Theatre, Dan brings a wealth of experience and passion for storytelling, audience engagement, and organizational growth.

Dan’s professional background spans a successful career as an entrepreneur and manager, with expertise in communications, marketing, and development. His ability to innovate and connect has made him a driving force in the arts and beyond.

In theatre, Dan’s creative leadership includes directing acclaimed productions such as Father of the Bride by Caroline Francke, The Spot by Tresa Rees, and Trial by Cobra by Anne Snead. He has also showcased his talent as a performer, with memorable roles like Captain Lesgate in Dial ‘M’ for Murder and Alec Bulthorpe in Key for Two. As a prolific writer, Dan has penned original works, including The Blanket Gift and I’ll Have What He’s Having.

Dan’s roots in theatre extend to his time as Artistic Director for Sock ‘n’ Buskin Theatre in Ottawa, where he directed and performed for five years. Today, he is committed to creating captivating experiences for audiences, fostering creativity within the Niagara Region, and guiding Thorold Theatre toward a bright and dynamic future.

“I help tell good stories. I create audiences. Any platform, anywhere, anytime.”

Jody Gravelle – Artistic Director & Treasurer

Jody Gravelle, a Niagara Falls native, made her debut with Thorold Theatre in 2024 as Lily Archer in Tresa Rees’ play The Spot. Now serving as Artistic Director and Treasurer, Jody brings her vibrant creativity, passion, and dedication to every aspect of the organization.

With a deep love for acting, singing, and dancing, Jody thrives on connecting with audiences and transforming ideas into magical stage experiences. She believes in theatre’s unique ability to inspire, entertain, and unite the community. As Artistic Director, she is enthusiastic about leading rehearsals, productions, and creative endeavors, ensuring every performance leaves a lasting impression.

Jody is committed to fostering positive, long-lasting relationships with patrons and members, emphasizing her approachable and problem-solving nature. She values feedback and is always ready to engage with questions, comments, and new ideas.

Beyond the stage, Jody’s compassion extends to her work in critical care for neonatal puppies and kittens, as well as her role in the veterinary field. This nurturing spirit aligns perfectly with her commitment to community and artistic excellence.

Motivated and dedicated, Jody is proud to be part of a professional and talented team of executives and members who share a common goal—making audiences smile. She looks forward to expanding Thorold Theatre’s reach and involving the Niagara community in a variety of entertaining and engaging productions.

Jody’s passion for theatre and her unwavering enthusiasm ensure she will continue to bring joy and creativity to the stage for years to come.

Jim Park – Technical Director

Jim Park’s first theatrical experience came in 1975, with a high school production of Miss Saigon. As part of the school’s Audio-Visual team, Jim worked on the lighting crew and operated a follow spot for the show. His next follow-spot assignment was a charity variety show later the same year at Montreal’s Westmount High School featuring the CBC comedy duo, Wayne & Schuster.

After high school, Jim attended Montreal’s John Abbott College Professional Theatre program, later transferring to Ryerson Polytechnic’s (now Toronto Metropolitan University) Technical Theatre Program where he specialized in sound and lighting.

Jim left theatre in the early ‘eighties to pursue a career in trucking. He returned to his roots in the late ‘eighties joining theatrical touring company as a driver, follow-sport operator, and stagehand.

Jim’s first local community theatre gig came in 2010 as sound designer for Garden City Productions’ The Fantastiks. Subsequently, he did sound for White Christmas, Fiddler on the Roof, South Pacific, A Chorus Line, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, Spam-a-lot, and Beauty and the Beast.

Jim joined Thorold Community Theatre in 2012 as a sound technician, and has worked on more than a dozen productions, including TCT pandemic-era audio production of And Then The Lights Went Out.

Jim currently serves on the group’s executive committee as the technical director.

Matthew Harbin – Executive Member at Large