Steph Link

For Steph Link, theatre isn’t just a career—it’s a lifelong passion that has shaped who she is and how she contributes to the Fort McMurray community. As the Production Manager for Keyano Theatre & Arts Centre, Steph is a driving force behind the scenes, ensuring that artistic visions come to life on stage. Her journey, which began with a five-month contract back in 2012, has come full circle with her return in 2023, and she couldn’t be more excited to once again be part of Fort McMurray’s vibrant arts scene.

Originally from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Steph grew up with an immense love for theatre. She recalls attending her first musical at the age of 12, a pivotal moment that shaped her career ambitions. “I told my mom, ‘I want to do that,’” she says. When her mother asked what part she wanted to play, Steph’s answer was simple but telling: “All of it.” This response captures her boundless enthusiasm for theatre, from acting to production and everything in between. Her love for the art form led her to the prestigious National Theatre School of Canada, where she graduated in 2008.

Steph first moved to Fort McMurray in 2012 to Stage Manage productions of Chicago and The Farnsworth Invention for Keyano Theatre Co. What was initially a temporary five-month contract quickly turned into something much bigger when she was offered the position of Resident Stage Manager. She held that role until 2017 when life took her elsewhere, but in 2023, the opportunity to return as Production Manager called her back to the community she had grown to love.

For Steph, the most rewarding part of her job is watching young people grow and thrive through their involvement in the theatre. “Seeing young people grow up in our programs and grow as artists is incredibly fulfilling,” she says. The excitement in the community for the theatre’s programming and the joy of putting on a successful show continue to inspire her daily. This passion for nurturing talent and fostering creativity is evident not just in her professional life but also in her community involvement. Steph has directed the full-length documentary A Little Cabaret, showcasing theatre in Fort McMurray, and hosts events like trivia nights and Karaoke, blending her love for the arts with community outreach. In 2012, she even started Fort McMurray’s first Trivia Night at the Tavern on Main, adding a new layer of community engagement through her events.

Steph’s career is deeply intertwined with her family’s unwavering support. Growing up, her parents encouraged her to pursue her passions, instilling in her the belief that with hard work, anything is possible—even if it’s unconventional. “My parents raised us to know that with hard work, we could do anything, even if it was different from what everyone else was doing,” she reflects. Now, her partner provides similar support, moving back to Fort McMurray with her and attending every show, helping her push the boundaries of what she thought was possible.

As she looks to the future, Steph’s goals are both professional and personal. She is eager to implement systems that will enhance the experiences of everyone who participates in or attends a show at Keyano Theatre. Beyond that, she hopes to expand her artistic portfolio by working with a variety of community groups (such as taking on her Directorial debut with Swamp Rat Experience this spring with Doubt; A Parable) and taking on projects that challenge and inspire both herself and the community. Personally, Steph is excited to savour life’s simple pleasures—cooking delicious meals, experiencing beauty in everyday moments, and, of course, spending time with her beloved dogs, Maggie and Rodney.

Despite her many accomplishments, Steph remains firmly grounded in her belief that theatre is for everyone. “Theatre should be fun and engaging for both the audience and the team who works to put it on,” she explains. For Steph, the arts are essential to building a creative, passionate, and socially engaged community. Whether someone makes the arts their career or simply enjoys them as a hobby, Steph believes that the transformative power of theatre can change people for the better.

Looking ahead, Steph sees herself as a facilitator of dreams. “As Production Manager at Keyano, I want to lead by example—work hard, push my boundaries, and show everyone how fun and integral the arts are,” she says. She’s committed to making sure that everyone who steps onto the stage or into the audience at Keyano Theatre feels welcomed and inspired, and that their artistic dreams have a chance to flourish.

In a community where budgeting time and money has become increasingly challenging, Steph understands the importance of providing high-quality experiences that people feel are worth their investment. With her dedication, creativity, and passion, Steph Link is sure to continue making a profound impact on Fort McMurray’s arts scene for years to come.

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