"We wanted to say thank you for all that you do for our children. They have gained so much from just knowing you. You inspire them to challenge themselves and they continue to gain wonderful experiences through your direction." - R. Anderson
"Tony brings out the best in every artist that works with him due to his solid direction and attention to details. Absolutely refreshing to see the dedication put into each production and to not be afraid to step out of the box to produce a beautiful show. Tony has a passion and vision that is truly inspiring."- V. Roussel
"Thank you so much for giving my daughter Emma (and all the other folks) the chance to be part of something driven by a love of music, theatre, and being able to have the opportunity to express one's self. Of course, this is important for an actor to do, but also for an audience member to experience. Specifically, for young people - when I see my kids having the opportunity to develop their talents and confidence in a safe and supportive environment, it's GOLDEN! I believe what you do, plus your commitment, is one such opportunity."- B. Yee
"My daughter wanted me to send this to you to say how much she enjoyed working with you and that you have inspired her to continue her theatre career. She looks forward to working with you in the future (hopefully soon, she said). Thanks for being awe inspiring! And thank you for helping her reach those dreams. Once she met you, she was sold on moving forward with her career."- T. Neidjalski
"Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all your dedication, passion, and kindness. You offered our daughter opportunities and experiences that she will value forever. Thank you for believing in her. I think that has had the most impact on her. When you gave her a solo opportunity and the larger role in the play , you also gave her hope. A hope that has never been given to her before."- C. Skorobohach
"My daughters have been so impressed with how you navigate a professional, serious approach and have so much patience and are so nice at the same time. They are so appreciative! And of course, Samantha just loves you!."- L. Madill
"You are truly creating a world class experience for these young performers and I hope you are rewarded when they land on the stage. My son has somehow gone from 'terrifed to audition' to 'can't wait to get rehearsal'. He's so happy to see everyone, and when he gets home, he heads to his piano with the script to work on the songs. His dad and I are super happy he's having such an awesome experience. And more importantly that it looks like you're going to have a great show!"- J. Dawes
"The leadership and dedication of Tony James is unparalleled. He leads with exceptional knowledge and experience, that allows the cast to grow and learn at an excellent rate. It's nothing but a wonderful experience for my daughter."- D. Corkett
"The NSCC is such an incredible opportunity for our daughters to experience. They continue to be encouraged and supported to be at their growth edge as performers and creators, while continually being valued for their skills and dedication to what they love. We are so grateful for Tony's passion and vision of what is possible for his artists and the performing arts in our community."- S. Madill
"We are so grateful for all that you have given to our boys. You have been an incredible influence on their lives!"- D. Gosse
"We are so excited to have our son working with you and are thrilled with your perseverance to influence him towards his passion."- A. Pirtle
"Thank you for bringing incredible opportunities to our son, who is an emerging young artist. At this stage in his professional development, we feel that mentorship, learning, and growth within a supportive and nuturring environment are of the utmost importance, and your company is meeting these needs in every way. Not only is our son receiving amazing casting opportunities and top-notch direction from producer/director, Tony James, but he is also benefiting greatly from working alongside other talented artists. We are thrilled about the wide array of specialized workshops and masterclass, where all company members will have the chance to soak up the knowledge and expertise of internationally renowned guest teachers in areas such as dance, theatre, and voice. You have created an environment that encourages, inspires, and pushes each artist to reach their full potential. It has been clear from the start that each individual's talents are recognized and valued, with the goal of providing the right tools and opportunities to allow them to shine, and shre their gifts on stage."- S. McIntosh
"I wanted to extend my sincerest thanks for all you have done. I am personally very grateful for the confidence and opportunities for growth you have provided my daughter, as well as, all of the other performers. You are a very generous individual when its comes to your passion for the theatre. You have earned the respect of my daughter, my wife and myself, through your actions, your words, and your heart."- B. Skorobohach
"I know the kids are going to miss you. They both looked up to you and learned so much. Thank you for the experiences and culture that you"ve shown them. We can't thank you enough! - C & J. Swanstrom
"My daughter's experience with you this past year has been great! Since the beginning, I have found your company to be professional and focused on providing a supportive environment for the artists to learn and develop their skills, striving toward presenting fine productions. The teamwork and camaraderie found among the group is exemplary, cutting across the broad age range and backgrounds of its members. As a parent, I feel comfortable knowing my child is gaining new skills and benefiting from the expertise of others in the company, while being in a safe and trusted environment. Your leadership proves to be a strong role model for all performers, inspiring the casts to perform at the top of their game. Thank you so much!"- C. Briggs
"We are all extremely grateful for the wonderful opportunities you've provided, from the incredible masterclasses to the constant collegial support and encouragement my daughter received. I think above all else she values the wonderful friendships she's formed with the other performers. They, and their families, have become dear friends. We thank you for everything and are grateful for the many many special and magical moments you brought to the stage. You will be sorely missed."- H. Simons
"When you meet someone who lives and works inside of their zone of genius they're hard to miss. Having had the priviledge of meeting Tony James and seeing how he works and what he brings out in people, he is indeed one of those rarities."- L. Klassen
"Thank you very much for your time, effort, and commitment to Flavia and towards Samantha. It has been quite a journey!" - S. Madill
"Tony, your enthusiasm and passion continues to be an inspiration. We have all appreciated the time and energy you put into directing Flavia. Thank you so much!" - L. Madill
"Thank you for giving my son this beautiful and life-changing opportunity!" - S. Wilson
"I am writing today to praise the co-founder of EPAC, Tony James. I met Tony in February 2015 when my son was auditioning for a spot on the company's players list. I was impressed right from the beginning by how professional and upstanding Tony conducted all aspects of the company's activities. From auditions to call backs, and then eventually rehearsals and final performances, Tony was not just an excellent communicator with the group, but also took actions which showed tremendous respect and support for the budding artists.
Good communication started day one with the first audition. Tony spoke to the whole group to make a formal introduction of himself, so we all knew who he was and what the the endeavour entailed. After this first meeting, email and texts were used to communicate with parents and artists regarding rehearsals and costume details, however Tony always made himself available before and after rehearsals if there were any questions or concerns. Tony also encouraged parents to correspond with him anytime. I did need to contact him about an issue and he was very prompt and helpful in dealing with it.
Tony's respect and support for the artists were demonstrated throughout the many months of production. Tony really embraced each individual artist's unique personality. He worked with the artists strengths while helping them improve their other skills which perhaps were less developed. For example, my son came in with several Citadel classes under his belt but very little singing experience. He also has a funny, comedic side to him. Tony embraced Luke's quirky humour by giving him a comedic bow at one point in the show. He also helped advance his singing skills by bringing in professionals to work with the cast on several occasions. My son blossomed during those many months of rehearsals. He has gained greater confidence in himself and his skills. Being part of Tony's company has fed his love of performing and has grown his appetite to learn more. Tony is helping to develop some great talent.
Tony is professional and upstanding individual who is developing some great talent in the city and a I am pleased to support him."- C. Markowski
"Our sons William and Daniel had the incredible opportunity to be valued members of the cast of Tony's "Curtain Up - A Broadway Musical" production. This was a phenomenal first performance that exceeded the boys and our expectations. Throughout the 9 months leading up to the performance, Tony James was nurturing, organized and an outstanding mentor to our boys. In a short time, Tony created a fun, yet serious, family atmosphere, full of hard work and enriching learning. The experience working with Tony taught our boys flexibility, dedication, and the importance of believing in themselves. Through Tony's patience, encouragement, and inspirational mentorship, William and Daniel flourished and learned SO much!
We are all so grateful for the opportunities Tony has provided our sons and we fully endorse him, and his company."- S. Gosse