Amanda Samuelson's Journey from Grande Prairie to Amiskwaciwâskahikan

In the bustling city of Amiskwaciwâskahikan, colloquially known as Edmonton, there resides a powerhouse of talent and passion: Amanda Samuelson. A writer, actor, dramaturg, and producer, Amanda's journey from her roots in Grande Prairie, Alberta, to the vibrant arts scene of Edmonton is a testament to her unwavering dedication to the craft of storytelling and the transformative power of mentorship.

Born and raised amidst the sprawling landscapes of Grande Prairie, Amanda's love affair with theatre began at an early age. It was in the small-town community theatres that she first discovered the magic of the stage, igniting a flame within her that would fuel her artistic endeavours for years to come.

Following her dreams, Amanda pursued her passion for theatre at New York University's esteemed Tisch School of the Arts. There, she immersed herself in the vibrant tapestry of New York City's cultural scene, majoring in Theatre and minoring in Creative Writing. It was during her time at Tisch that Amanda's talents truly began to flourish, honing her skills as both a playwright and performer.

Upon returning to her Canadian roots, Amanda wasted no time in making her mark on the local arts scene. Her plays, rich in emotion and depth, garnered recognition at festivals and competitions across the globe. Most notably, her acclaimed work "Pressure" took center stage at the 2022 Edmonton Fringe Festival, captivating audiences with its raw honesty and compelling narrative.

However, Amanda's passion extends far beyond the stage. As a firm believer in the power of mentorship, she dedicates herself to nurturing the next generation of storytellers. Whether through co-teaching a Playwriting class at the Citadel or leading writing workshops at Prosper Place / Canadian Mental Health Association, Amanda is committed to providing aspiring writers with the tools and guidance they need to succeed.

But her dedication doesn't stop there. Amanda is also deeply involved with Free Arts, an organization dedicated to using creativity as a tool for social change. Through her work with Free Arts, Amanda harnesses her passion for mentorship to empower individuals from all walks of life, using art as a catalyst for personal growth and healing.

For Amanda, the journey of learning and mentorship is an ongoing pursuit—one that she embraces wholeheartedly with each passing day. Her desire to give others the same opportunity that she once had to fall in love with writing is a driving force behind all that she does. Through her unwavering commitment to her craft and her community, Amanda Samuelson continues to inspire and uplift those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the world of theatre and beyond.