Stratford Festival Reviews was created in 2009 by me, Keith Tomasek. I continue to edit an publish the website with a small team of writers many of whom have graduate and post-graduate educations.
I also publish the “Performers Podcast“, which is all about the creative process and living a well balanced life. It’s Canada’s longest running podcast on the arts and in 2018 won the “Best Cultural Series” award at the Canadian Podcasting Awards.
StratfordFestivalReviews.com and The PerformersPodcast.com are independent websites, not affiliated with the Stratford Festival.
Our mailing address is:
Stratford Festival Reviews
168 McMaster Dr.
London, On N6K 1J4
I grew up in Montreal where I studied theatre at John Abbott College. Later I completed a Master of Arts in Mass Communications at the University of Leicester.
For over a decade I taught at the University of Western Ontario in the Faculty of Information and Media Studies. I served as the founding program coordinator of the Certificate in Digital Communication program.
Along the way, I produced award-winning radio and TV for the CBC and CTV. I also wrote and produced award-winning short films, one of which was shortlisted for an Oscar nomination.
Working as Senior Interactive Media Developer with America Online I partnered with major brands, including RBC Royal Bank and Warner Brothers, to create online marketing campaigns, including the interactive marketing for “Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.”
As a media strategist, I help artists and organizations integrate social media and emails into their marketing campaigns. I’ve spoken at international conferences and a Facebook campaign I created won an International Association of Business Communicators award.
What I believe
I believe that the arts have an integral role in our communities, having the power to affect social change and build bridges.
The power of storytelling, in any form, is indisputable.
I believe that local businesses create meaningful employment and community engagement.
But the proliferation, and convenience, of shopping online with multinational brands has a negative impact on our communities and local businesses. That’s the reason I run a few select ads on this website. These ads do not cover operating expenses, but they certainly help.
This website, and the podcast, are truly a labour of love.
Cole, Keith & Suzanne
My family and I live in London, Ontario.
Thank You
Thanks to everyone who has submitted reviews, blog posts and Facebook comments to this website. With over 2 million page views, you continue to make Stratford Festival Reviews a great place to spend some time.
Please use the contact form below to get in touch.
Digital Tools I Can’t Live Without.
1Password – Stay safe online – 1Password remembers all your passwords. This Canadian tool works with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS and most browsers.
Calendly – An simple scheduling tool I use to book interviews, appointments and more. It provides relief from back and forth emails.
TextExpander – I use this every day to save time and keystrokes with custom keyboard shortcuts. It works on email, social media and there’s even an app for iPhones!
FreshBooks – Another Canadian tool that’s being used by millions around the world. FreshBooks changed the way I run my business, and pay my taxes. I can’t believe it took me so long to sign up!
Libsyn My award winning podcast (Best Cultural Series, 2018 Canadian Podcasting Awards) is hosted on Libsyn. They offer the best service and stability, which comes from their years as the industry leader. Libsyn has been hosting podcasts since before the iPhone existed! I’ve spent time with Rob Walch, VP of Podcaster Relations, and would trust him with my life.
Social Warfare Plugins – My favourite social sharing WordPress plugin. I’ve been using it for years and have generated tens of thousands of page views with it.
Occasionally I participate in affiliate programs with some of the companies listed above because I believe in them. I may receive a small commission when products are purchased through some of the links. You can rest assured that I only recommend products I’ve used myself and/or where I have a personal relationship with the developer(s).
