Brenda Crichlow
Zecora / Matilda
Brenda is one of the busiest, dynamic, and most versatile women in Vancouver's film industry. As Artistic Director of Crichlow Actors’ Studio (CASt), she brings more than 28 years of experience both in front of the camera and behind the scenes in film, television, and radio as a professional actor and instructor. Her background has cultivated CASt's excellent reputation among industry professionals, peers and students alike. A graduate of the Studio 58 Theatre Arts program in Vancouver, Brenda has merited guest starring, series recurring and lead roles for film and television, voice-over, (Zecora & Matilda on My Little Pony, Dr. Skelley on Ready, Jet, Go! Prop-Top in Dinotrux and more); radio hosting, and commercials.
Some highlights include supporting roles alongside: Mira Sorvino (A Christmas To Remember), Taylor Cole (The Art Of Us), Kyra Sedgwick (The Possession), Genie Francis and Ted McGinley (Notes From The Heart Healer), Harrison Ford (Firewall), Angela Bassett (The Lazarus Child), Linda Hamilton (Home for the Holidays); and in Vice, with Michael Madsen and Mykelti Williamson. Episodic and MOW's: Some Assembly Required, Motive, Newly Wed and Dead, Home Invasion, All Things Valentine, The Gourmet Detective, Jingle All The Way 2, Santa Hunters, Crash Pad, to name but a few; as well as numerous national, commercial campaigns.
Her passion and skill has led to work with children to adults as an onset acting and dialect coach for shows such as: A Series Of Unfortunate Events, Siren, Spooky House starring Ben Kingsley and Mercedes Ruehl, Just Deal, Elf, (James Caan, Mary Steenburgen, and Will Ferrell); and as a sub on Things We Lost in the Fire starring Halle Berry, Benicio Del Toro and David Duchovny.
Brenda was appointed by her peers to sit on the Executive Board for the Union of British Columbia Performers (UBCP), where she was the Secretary and Committee Chair, for Member Education for several years. She is also a Trustee for Member Benefits Trust and Director of Member Communication.
Brenda is married to Rene Lessard. They live in Vancouver, British Columbia with their two children Isabella and Justin.