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Kristen Sawatzky named ACTRA MB's Woman of the Year

A message from the ACTRA Manitoba Women's Committee:

Kristen Sawatzky has long been a powerful force within Manitoba’s film and television community, making her an exceptional and deserving recipient of the ACTRA Manitoba Woman of the Year Award. Born and raised in Winnipeg, Kristen has dedicated more than 26 years to the industry, building a remarkable career that spans multiple disciplines including dance, acting, puppetry, choreography, movement coordination, stunt performance, stunt coordination, and photography. Her versatility and longevity reflect not only immense talent but also a deep commitment to her craft and to the Manitoba film industry.

Kristen’s influence goes far beyond her work on set. She has been a passionate advocate for women in the industry, especially in the male-dominated world of stunts. Through her work as a stunt coordinator, her time on the ACTRA Manitoba Women’s Committee, and as a speaker at SWIFT (Supporting Women in Film Trades) Conference, she has helped challenge barriers and create space for more women to step into roles that once seemed out of reach.

Kristen’s generosity extends into every corner of her life. She teaches women’s self-defence through Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, volunteers with animal rescue organizations, supports community initiatives, and donates through her photography business to charities that help women in crisis. Kristen has also photographed countless headshots for actors in our local membership. In 2024, she was recognized with a Winnipeg 150 Award for her leadership in The Front Steps Project, which raised over $7,000 for Harvest Manitoba during the pandemic.

Through her talent, her advocacy, and the way she continually lifts others up, Kristen embodies the spirit of the ACTRA Manitoba Woman of the Year Award. Her career is impressive, but it’s her heart, generosity, and unwavering dedication to her community that make her truly deserving of this honour.

ACTRA Manitoba is honoured and proud to present Kristen this award.

INTIMACY FOR PERFORMERS INFO SESSION

1-4 pm on Sunday, March 1

De-Mystifying Intimacy On Set: A discussion and info session with Prairie Intimacy Coordinators


Gain the knowledge and confidence you need to submit for projects with intimacy and nudity. Join this informational panel discussion and presentation with Prairie Intimacy Coordinators and ACTRA about how actors and background performers can work effectively with intimacy coordinators. We will demystify the process of auditioning, preparing and performing roles that require nudity and intimacy, and explain how intimacy coordinators support and advocate for performers through all stages of the process.


When: 1-4 pm on Sunday, March 1, 2026
Where: Artspace Boardroom (4th Floor at 100 Arthur St.)


You need to register for this session! Please email manitoba@actra.ca.

You will receive confirmation of your registration and instructions for submitting questions (anonymously) in advance.

@prairie.intimacy.coordinators

Thank you @officialmichaelstrickland from the @thewinnipegactorsacademy and @actra_mb for another great session this weekend! 🎭🇨🇦👏🥇🎥

Thank you @officialmichaelstrickland from the @thewinnipegactorsacademy and @actra_mb for another great session this weekend! 🎭🇨🇦👏🥇🎥

Thank you @officialmichaelstrickland from the @thewinnipegactorsacademy and @actra_mb for another great session this weekend! 🎭🇨🇦👏🥇🎥

“When actors are informed and their boundaries are respected, they can fully consent and perform with confidence.”
- Sharon Bajer, Performer, Playwright, and Winnipeg’s first certified Intimacy Coordinator.

The inaugural recipient of the ACTRA Visionary Award shares her expert industry insights in an exclusive CHROMA Q&A, including what intimacy coordination really means to her. A unique insight into an ACTRA member leading with vision.

Our union. Our stories.

Read CHROMA issue 01 today. Link in bio.

#chroma #actra

“If production in Manitoba is truly rising, then ACTRA performers must be a force in that tide.” - ACTRA Manitoba President Bomback

Dive into the cover story of ACTRA’s new national magazine: CHROMA and discover how Manitoba became the industry’s feel-good comeback story and what it means for performers in the Keystone Province.

Our union. Our stories.

Read CHROMA issue 01 today. Link in bio.

#chroma #actra

Thank you @actra_mb and @officialmichaelstrickland for partnering with @filmtrainingmanitoba for a great session today! 🎥🙂🇨🇦🎭🎬

✨ Workshop 2: Mindfulness and Managing Triggers
Mental Wellness Workshop with Beste Kalender
January 29, 2026 | 1–2:30 pm ET | 10–11:30 am PT | Zoom
Limited spots available
An interactive, small‑group workshop focused on evidence‑based mindfulness and distress tolerance techniques (including DBT‑inspired tools). Participants will learn how to recognize triggers, manage overwhelming emotions, and create personalized coping plans for stressful moments.
Link to register in our Bio :)

✨ Workshop 1: The Journey Out of Debt
Financial Wellness Workshop by CPA Canada
January 20, 2026 | 1–2 pm ET | 10–11 am PT | Zoom
A beginner-friendly financial wellness session that breaks down how credit works, how debt accumulates, and practical ways to manage and reduce debt, even with unpredictable income. Ideal for artists, creators, freelancers, and anyone seeking more clarity and control over their financial future.
Link to register in our bio.

@mtcwinnipeg Together with his family, the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, @prairietheatrex and @mtypattheforks will be holding a Celebration of Life to honour Ian Ross.

Ian’s impact in the theatre community, in Manitoba and across the country, leaves an unforgettable legacy and we invite you to join us to celebrate and share memories with his friends and family.

Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 2:00PM at 174 Market Avenue, John Hirsch Mainstage.

Doors open at 1:00PM with a reception to follow.

Seating is limited, arrive early. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream will be available.

OSM is inviting industry professionals and crew to complete a Sustainability Survey to help inform the Sustainability Workshop taking place on the afternoon of OSM’s All Access 365: Indigenous Leadership, Pathways & Sustainable Production event on January 14 at the Fort Garry Hotel. This workshop will help guide the development of a sustainable production framework for Manitoba.
Why participate:
Your input will directly inform practical next steps, including sustainability actions, tools, training, and industry-wide support.
Quick ask:
Please take a few minutes to complete the survey before January 2:
LINK TO SURVEY IN PROFILE
Join us on January 14:
All Access 365: Indigenous Leadership, Pathways & Sustainable Production will bring together producers, crew, funders, and industry professionals to move from conversation to action. You’re welcome to attend all or part of the day, including just the Sustainability Workshop and/or the industry networking mixer if that works best for you.

Registration closes January 7 or once capacity is reached.
Thank you for helping us ensure Manitoba’s sustainability framework reflects the realities of those working on the ground.

Another exciting feature shot here in Manitoba with lots of local talent and our exceptional crew. Hits theatres on April 17th and we can’t wait to it!
#actramb @actranational @therealbobodenkirk

@sndnmovie Billy’s checking his list and slashing it twice.
Filmed here in Winnipeg with our talented local crew and amazing Actra members!

SILENT NIGHT, DEADLY NIGHT – in theaters NOW!