In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition for the people, businesses and organizations that help make our city great. The team at KelownaNow.com is passionate about this community and the people that make it amazing. We want to show our friends, neighbours, family and colleagues that we notice them and the fabulous things that they do.
What is your name?
Bonnie Gratz.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I'm from Calgary and have been in Kelowna for seven years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My favourite people are my family, Derek, Brock and Reid Gratz, because they make me feel happy, loved unconditionally and secure.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I believe you can be happy wherever you are if you choose to be. Luckily, I am surrounded by beauty in Kelowna, BC everyday and I never take that for granted. I live in such a wonderful city.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Georgie Girl because it combines two of my favourite things: vintage and amazing clothes. Angie Bricker, the owner, is also a generous and talented person who has designed costumes for our shows! Love Georgie Girl!
What is your favourite activity?
Performing, writing and directing plays and teaching theatre.
If you had to choose: pizza, tacos, or burgers?
Love them all! There's pizza from Dun Enzies, tacos from Surf Side and burgers from Derek Gratz's grill. Yum.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I often am caught without my glasses and since I am near sighted, I sometimes have friends walking right towards me and I can't see it is them. It is very embarrassing to not recognize someone you know because you can't see them!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Every day I get to work with the artists in New Vintage Theatre I learn and am inspired. I am lucky to work with such talented people of all disciplines and it is amazing.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My family teases me about puppet shows I would do as a little kid. I took them so seriously I would act like it was Broadway, but my favourite memories are those quiet times I would spent with my family on our acreage in Alberta. Just us, the sky, my animals and freedom to dream.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I volunteer a lot for our own company. Without hundreds of hours of volunteer work and personal investment, New Vintage never would have got off the ground and still be here five years later. I am proud to say that we are a not-for-profit charity that is a member of The Professional Association of Canadian Theatres and we pay over 80 artists a year in our community to do what they love most. We also do lots of free and discounted shows so that everyone can enjoy a play. Our motto is 'Theatre for all.'
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
To make every place in the world a safe place for children and families.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Swimming in the lake.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Pulp Fiction/Robbie's Rare Books.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
Kelowna is a progressive place and we all need to embrace change in a positive, yet discerning way. We can only learn from each other if we listen.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Natural beauty and generous spirit.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1) Visit Barcelona
2) Perform on a European Stage
3) Get one of my plays read in NYC
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I am very shy and quiet most of the time.
What is the name of your business/organization?
New Vintage Theatre.
Why did you get into/start this business?
Theatre and acting is who I am. I am passionate about it.
What is the goal of your business?
Theatre for all.
What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
Getting established in a new city.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
There is no going back, only forward!
What do you always find yourself saying?
'Be fearless! Jump in!'
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Justin Trudeau. He is inspiring and a former drama teacher.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Because these are the same people who support our community. It is essential!
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Raising my two intelligent, creative sons.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Max and Gloria Sloan at Pulp Fiction Coffeehouse for their support of artists.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Tamie Williams, Shaw TV.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
We only have one life to live, don't let fear, self-doubt or negativity hold you back from what you really want to try in life. I work with people every day who say I always wanted to try this when I was younger, but thought now, it is never too late. It is never too late! Just jump in and love the life you have.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kelowna.
