A studio designed by artists, for artists.

An artist hailing from the land down under, Benny is all about living a creative life 24/7. Whether it’s acting, filmmaking, music, photography—or just daydreaming—he’s passionate about making his own art, inspiring and bringing people together, and supporting other creatives in the process of art making.

On most days, you’ll find Benny ensconced at Backstage, prepping for an audition, working on projects, ready to help with whatever you need.

Don’t be surprised if you find yourself deep in conversation within minutes of meeting for the first time. As an experienced creative and crew, Benny is also available and happy to assist on a variety of projects.

A multi-disciplinary photographer, director, writer, filmmaker, and performer, Séamus is passionate about using visual artistry to tell stories. A graduate of George Brown Theatre School, Séamus’ career has spanned a variety of creative, academic and professional fields, all of which are focused on crafting creative and compelling narratives—whether through the lens of a camera, on stage, or in print.

Séamus’ photography has appeared in PhotoVogue, Urban Void Magazine, SaintEight, and more. As a writer, he’s written, directed, and filmed music videos, short films, and plays, and been published in many literary journals and magazines.

Séamus believes everyone has something beautiful inside them, and he loves using his diverse skills to help his fellow artists create, explore and bring their visions to life. Whether behind the camera, on set or in the editing room, his passion for collaboration makes him an integral part of the Backstage creative community

Jonathan’s passions lie in the detailed craftsmanship of woodworking, the freedom of exploring the great outdoors, and his lifelong love affair with (really cool) cars. Originally born in Toronto, he decided to chase his Westcoast dreams, and made Vancouver his home in 2022.

From repairing a busted table to building all our custom sets, Jonathan was one of the first to join the Backstage team. Now, he’s excited to put all his varied skills to work helping our our community with everything from passion projects to commercial gigs.

As a former ski instructor and seasoned open water swimmer, he’s also always all-too happy to share all the best-kept secret hiking sites and hole-in-the-wall eats the Lower Mainland has to offer.

Derek Kwan is a Chinese-Canadian filmmaker based in Vancouver, known for crafting distinctive narrative and documentary work. His award-winning short 100 Days (2023) was selected for Telefilm’s Not Short on Talent Cannes program, won Outstanding Short Director at Reelworld Film Festival, and took home the grand prize on CBC’s Short Film Face Off.With credits spanning CBC Arts, Telus Storyhive, and Warner Music Canada, Derek’s storytelling bridges scripted, unscripted, and music-driven content. He’s a Bell Media/BIPOC TV & Film Unscripted Lab alum and was named one of Reelworld’s top 20 emerging filmmakers. As a 1st AD, his work includes SXSW-winner Different Than Before and the feature Mongrels (VIFF 2024).

Bren MacDonald is a Vancouver-based cinematographer, photographer, and lighting technician, and a founding member of Grayfox Productions. A graduate of Capilano University’s Film Studies program, Bren’s work spans narrative shorts, music videos, and branded content. His credits include Captured (DP/Still Photographer), Mistress of Bones (Still Photographer), and Death of the Party (Gaffer), as well as directing Split Decision and Bruised Peach. With a cinematic eye and hands-on versatility, Bren brings creative precision to every set.

Crystal Hung retired from her award-winning and highly sought-after career in Vancouver’s real estate industry to focus on creating meaningful neighborhood hubs and bringing communities together. An experienced founder of development initiatives and large-scale public benefit projects, Crystal is known for leading teams to execute bold, visionary concepts that garner national media attention. Over the past 25 years, her advocacy work has inspired artists and collaborators to take risks, think bigger, and aim higher.