International Women’s Day is more than a date on the calendar; it is a moment to recognize the grit, visionary thinking, and community-building power of the women who define our city’s aesthetic and narrative. In spaces where history has often been told through a singular lens, Vancouver’s female artists, curators, and cultural leaders are rewriting the script—prioritizing intersectionality, public accessibility, and the preservation of diverse local legacies.
This week, we are stepping into the studios and galleries with the trailblazers who have turned Vancouver into one of the world’s most vibrant cultural hubs. From the photographers capturing the “magic in the everyday” to the executive directors leading our major institutions, these women share their raw truths on self-authorship, the importance of “seat-at-the-table” advocacy, and the art that keeps them grounded. Join us for a series of intimate conversations that celebrate the minds that create, lead, and inspire. —Noa Nichol
Shana Levin, Vice President, Broadway Across Canada
The 27-Year Legacy: Staying with one organization for nearly three decades is a rare “Everyday Luxury.” How has your approach to bringing Broadway to Canada shifted as the culture of storytelling has evolved for women?
The luxury of growing within a company for almost three decades is not lost on me. I’m grateful to work alongside incredible people (many of whom are women) who share a passion for bringing remarkable stories to Canadian stages, continuously inspiring and growing our audiences across the country. At our core, we believe theatre can change the world, and we’ve always prioritized bringing the Best of Broadway to our home stages. Today, more than ever, we focus on building and nurturing audiences that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. Over my tenure, we’ve seen a meaningful rise in female led creative teams, producers, and stories. Productions like Waitress, Hadestown, & Juliet, and Six, to name a few, have put women at the centre, both on stage and behind the scenes, helping shape a more female-forward Broadway landscape.
Reciprocity of the Stage: In theatre, there is a literal “Give to Gain” between performers and the audience. How do you see this exchange impacting hospitality and tourism in the cities you visit?
Absolutely. When a Broadway Across Canada show comes to town, you feel the ripple effect; restaurants buzzing before curtain, hotels welcoming visitors, streets coming alive. That energy between stage and audience extends into the broader community which benefits local businesses and brings people together. Live theatre isn’t just an artistic experience; it’s a catalyst for human connection and economic vitality, giving cities a chance to showcase their warmth and hospitality. The impact on local communities is significant, and it’s a wonderful thing to witness.
The “No Favourite” Challenge: You’ve said picking a favourite show is like picking a favourite child. Is there a production that gave something transformative to your career or perspective on leadership?
Every show offers a lesson, whether it sparks a new perspective, renews a sense of hope and gratitude, or inspires me to do more. If I were to highlight a few: Hamilton drives home the value of vision and grit, while Angelica and Eliza Schuyler remind me that leadership doesn’t always have to be loud to be powerful. & Juliet and Six reinforce the importance of women claiming their own narratives with confidence, while Come From Away strengthened my belief that true leadership comes from empathy, generosity, and collaboration. Collectively, these stories, I hope, have helped shape my approach to leadership balancing boldness with quiet influence, and leading with heart and integrity. They are a constant reminder that together, ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things.
Mentoring the Arts: With 27 years of experience, what is the most important “script” or piece of advice you share with young women hoping to work in live entertainment?
I tell young women to show up, work hard, raise your hand, and learn from the amazing women around you. It’s okay to be scared but know you deserve to sit at the table, never give up that seat. Build relationships rooted in respect and integrity, and don’t be discouraged if success doesn’t come immediately. True growth takes time, but it’s worth it.
The Vancouver Stage: How do you hope Vancouver’s theatre district will grow to better support working women in the arts?
I hope Vancouver’s theatre district continues to grow as a place where more people engage with the arts, discovering new shows that spark curiosity, connection, and joy. By welcoming new audiences and inspiring a love of live theatre, we encourage young women to pursue their creative passions, see themselves in the stories on stage, and bring even more artistry into the world. Supporting the arts isn’t just about today, it’s about nurturing the next generation of storytellers and leaders.
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