Actors galore at gala
Selfie magnet Yannick Bisson keeps ACTRA attendees buzzing
It was all about the red carpet at the 15 th Annual ACTRA Awards gala, held at The Carlu in Toronto.
An all- out frenzy broke out when Yannick Bisson, his wife Shantelle and three gorgeous daughters hit their mark for photographs. What felt like hundreds of fans rushed the photo wall to try and get a selfie with the enduring and endearing Murdoch Mysteries star.
It’s no wonder, given Yannick has been a staple about town, lending his name and financial support to so many incredible charities.
For those who could tear themselves away from the excitement and get into their seats for supper, the evening’s show was hosted by Aurora Browne, Carolyn Taylor and Jennifer Whalen from the Baroness von Sketch troupe. They brought down the house.
Live music by the 11- piece Wintergarten Orchestra complemented by singer and actor Ted Atherton was a welcome addition.
The evening sported a theme to honour Canada’s sesquicentennial celebrations. “Canada has been reflected by ACTRA’s professional performers for fully half of Canada’s 150- year history,” said Theresa Tova, president of ACTRA Toronto. “Linda Kash, Joey Klein, Jean Yoon, Yannick Bisson, Joel Harris and Kim’s Convenience, and all the nominees, personify the extraordinary talent of our professional acting community.”
The award for Outstanding Performance – Female went to Jean Yoon ( Umma) for Kim’s Convenience, “Gay Discount” ( Thunderbird Films); Outstanding Performance – Male was awarded to Joey Klein ( Bobby) We’re Still Together (Achromatic Media); Outstanding Performance – Voice was awarded to Linda Kash ( Gina Falcone) Fugget About It, “Vagina’s Got Talent” (9 Story Media Group). The members’ choice Series Ensemble Award went to Kim’s Convenience, and Joel Keller presented ACTRA Toronto’s 2017 Award of Excellence to Yannick Bisson.
Orphan Black is shooting its last season in Toronto and it was a thrill to see the cast at the awards show. Kristian Bruun was on double duty as he was representing both Murdoch Mysteries and Orphan Black.
In the most emotional moment of the night, the ACTRA Toronto Stunt Award was presented posthumously to Joel Harris. His widow, stunt performer Alicia Turner, accepted on his behalf. Harris passed away 18 months ago while rehearsing.