By: Cathy Cena & Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre Today on Faces: Tri-Cities co-authored stories, Genevieve Kyle-Lefebvre and Cathy Cena had the pleasure of sitting down with Erinn Gleeson, founder of *Kids Can Theatre*, a community builder who believes deeply in the power of optimism, imagination, and inclusion. With warmth and sincerity, Erinn shared how storytelling and the arts have shaped both her personal journey and the lives of the children she works with. “I’m in the business of storytelling,” Erinn says. “When we share our stories, we realize how similar we truly are.

” Growing up, she was creative, expressive, and sometimes considered a little different. Her joyful and inclusive spirit was not always understood, but the arts gave her a place to feel at home. “Theatre allowed me to be myself. Wearing a costume helped me let go of fear and lean into creativity. That changed everything.” This early connection with theatre eventually became *Kids Can Theatre*, an organization Erinn co-founded to help children explore self-confidence, connection, and expression through performance. “We really believe kids can do incredible things if we give them the space and encouragement,” she says. Her chosen quote from Winston Churchill, “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity. An optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty,” is one she has kept on her fridge for years.

Erin explains that optimism has helped her get through tough times and is something she teaches every child who walks through her doors. “Even when things go wrong, I always ask, what good can come from this? There's always something, if we look closely.” That mindset was tested during the pandemic, which nearly shut down *Kids Can Theatre*. Erin and her co-founder worked without pay just to keep it alive. At the same time, she joined the United Way of British Columbia as a community builder, using her voice and passion to serve the Tri-Cities. When her time with the organization came to an end, she took it as a sign to refocus on her theatre company. “Sometimes the universe clears the path for you. I was meant to return to what I love most.” Now, *Kids Can Theatre* continues to grow.

The organization partners with local schools to offer programs and ensures that no child is turned away due to financial barriers. Erinn also provides space for kids who may not want to be on stage but still want to participate. Roles in costume design, set movement, and backstage support help every child feel included. Her message is simple. Creativity should be accessible, and all children deserve the chance to discover their voice. “Not every child is the same, but each one deserves to be seen and heard. Theatre is just the tool we use to help make that happen.” Through her compassion, leadership, and refusal to give up, Erinn Gleeson continues to show the Tri-Cities what it means to lead with heart. Her story is a reminder that even the smallest stage can have a lasting impact when children are encouraged to believe in themselves.