This month's Emerging Artist is no stranger to WCT !
You may have seen Jake Kopytko onstage as Eugene in Grease, in the ensemble in The Wizard of Oz, as Peter / Young Cratchit / Young Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, and most recently as the Big Bad Wolf and ensemble member for Shrek The Musical. He has also frequently performed at Project X Theatre's Theatre Under the Trees, most recently playing Shakespeare in this summer's presentation of Munsch Ado About Nothing. Beyond his work onstage, Jake is also a member of staff at Western Canada Theatre! Jake has been a Stage One Theatre School instructor and Front of House staff for the last few years, and he recently started a new journey as the Assistant Front of House Manager! We had the opportunity to ask Jake a few questions about his time with WCT, both on and off the stage.
How is WCT different from other theatre companies you’ve worked with?
I’ve had the opportunity to work for Western Canada Theatre for roughly 5 years and one thing that stands out to me above other companies I’ve been a part of is the strong sense of community both within the company and within the outreach into Kamloops’ community. The connections between patrons, fellow co-workers, actors, designers, etc., is truly what puts this company on another level.
What drew you to WCT?
Growing up in Kamloops, I was always aware of Western Canada Theatre being the only professional theatre company in town. From a very young age, I attended productions and every single time I got to sit in the theatre I was transported and completely mesmerized. It was a highlight for me growing up, and I knew that this company was a place I needed to be a part of in any way I could.
Has working with WCT challenged you and helped you grow as a performer?
Definitely! I was lucky enough to land my first professional acting job with WCT back when I was just nine years old (many moons ago now, haha). I had the pleasure of being in A Christmas Carol back in the 2010/2011 season. That experience gave me the opportunity to work alongside professionals within the industry that mentored and educated me in ways that I am still so thankful for to this day as I continue my professional acting career.
Why is WCT important to our community?
Western Canada Theatre plays an incredibly significant part in our community. Being the only professional theatre company in Kamloops, it's a staple for the Arts community here. Giving local artists a place to shine, uplifting other businesses within the city, educating youth, and bringing people together are all elements WCT prides itself on curating here in Kamloops and I’m proud to be a part of that. As a hub of storytelling, culture, and true heartwarming entertainment, there would be a huge hole left in this city without Western Canada Theatre.
What has been your most memorable role or event to date?
I’ve dipped my toes in a few departments over the years here at Western CanadaTheatre including Front of House, Education, and Box Office (for a day). All of these areas have had truly memorable moments for me. I’ve also had the true honor and pleasure of acting in a couple productions at WCT, A Christmas Carol (2010/2011), The Wizard of Oz (2021/2022), Grease (2022/2023) Shrek (2023/2024), and soon to be Beauty and the Beast (2024/2025). All have been incredible opportunities that I’m so blessed to have been given.
It’s incredibly difficult to pick just one role/experience as they all hold such special places in my heart. However! If I had to pick, I think Grease was truly one of the most amazing experiences I’ve had on stage and off stage. The connections made in that show are ones I will cherish forever.
Why do you continue to work with WCT, both onstage and with the company itself?
The connections I’ve made here at the company are very big reasons as to why I continue to work here. Going to work isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, but what truly makes every day feels like a joy is the humans that I get the privilege to work alongside. Whether it’s through Front of House, Education, or on stage as an actor, the opportunities and people that have come into my life have truly been gifts.
How has WCT allowed you to work towards / achieve your dreams?
Growing up, I knew I was drawn to the stage and had to make my way there one way or another. And through my time with this company I’ve been able to further my professional acting career and achieve goals that at one time only felt like dreams. With the assistance and trust Western Canada Theatre has put in me, it’s given me the chance to fulfill goals, dreams,and ambitions that I am forever grateful for.
What excites you about WCT?
This company continues to evolve and grow and becomes stronger and stronger with each new season, and the diversity and inclusivity the company brings both on and off stage with its designers, actors, and productions is truly what excites me about working here.
Do you feel that WCT has helped prepare you for this next step in your career?
I absolutely feel like Western Canada Theatre has helped me prepare, and has been a stepping stone for the next chapter in my career. I’ve been given jobs and opportunities that have pushed me as an employee, a performer, and as a human in ways that I did not expect when I first started. Over my time here I’ve grown and learned so much that I know I will continue to take with me moving forward.
What advice would you have for other young artists who are just starting out in their careers?
Listen to your gut. Always keep learning. Try new things. Accept the yes’ and the no’s with pride. And when in doubt, jazz hands!