Founders

Founded in 1998, the College has over 650 alumni who have successfully entered the industry as performers and active artistic leaders. As one of the most uniquely focused training programs in western Canada, the College has brought hundreds of artists together in collaboration as coaches, educators and trainers. Having an institution like the College in Victoria BC, national in its scope and ambition, is a rare gateway for emerging Canadian artists to find success in the professional performing arts industry.

We would like to extend heartfelt congratulations to CCPA Co-Founders Janis Dunning, C.M. and Jacques Lemay, C.M. on their appointment to the Order of Canada by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, “For their numerous contributions to the arts and to young artists in Canada.” 

“The College thanks them for all they have done on behalf of the hundreds and hundreds of graduates who found their artistic voice because of the tireless work Janis and Jacques undertook to build this very special and nurturing place. They are most deserving of our country’s highest civilian honour as they have always taken to heart it’s motto of desiring a better country.” – Caleb Marshall