Early Training and Breakthrough
It was obvious Kira loved performing early on. At the age of 16, she became a top 12 finalist on CBC TV’s inaugural Triple Sensation, a competition that showcased her talents in singing, dancing, and acting. This experience gave her the opportunity to train under industry legends like Chita Rivera and Joel Grey. After high school, she attended Ryerson Theatre School in Toronto, where she honed her craft and began landing professional roles even before she graduated.
Theatre: From Stratford to Broadway
Kira has an extensive and impressive theatre repertoire. She gained acclaim for playing Mrs. Walker in Tommy at the Stratford Festival, directed by Des McAnuff, with music by Pete Townshend. Her performance was lauded as a “masterpiece of tortured sensuality” by The Toronto Star. She made her Broadway debut in Doctor Zhivago in 2015 at The Broadway Theater, further solidifying her status as a leading lady in musical theatre.
Embracing New Works and Challenges
Kira has consistently sought out challenging and innovative roles. She was part of the pre-Broadway production of Hadestown at the Citadel Theatre, where she played one of the Fates. Her involvement in new musicals like Dr. Silver: A Celebration of Life and Ghost Quartet demonstrates her commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and exploring complex narratives.
Transitioning to Film and Television
Outside stage performances, Kira has made significant strides in film and television. She has appeared on screen in projects like Women Talking (2022), Lullaby (2022), Murdoch Mysteries, Coroner, and The Good Doctor. She performs with depth and authenticity, showcasing her ability to adapt to various genres and mediums.
Accolades and Recognition
Kira’s talent has not gone unnoticed. She has been nominated for a Dora Award for Outstanding Performance in a Musical and has received the Toronto Theatre Critics Awards for Best Ensemble in both 2019 and 2020. She has also been honored with the My Entertainment World Award for Best Actress in a Musical, the Jean Chalmers Guthrie Award, and the Lou Taube Memorial Award, reflecting her impact in Canadian theatre.
Musical Performances and Collaborations
Kira’s musical prowess extends to concert performances. Her stage credits include Koerner Hall, where she performed alongside musical theatre legend Colm Wilkinson and director Des McAnuff. At the Winspear Centre, she was a guest soloist with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Steven Reineke of The New York Pops. Her versatility as a singer allows her to easily transition between classical, jazz, and musical theatre genres.