MEET THE CAST OF STAGE ONE
THE CREW
TAX MASTER
Judy
Way back in 1986 (remember expo?) I was a student in the CGA program and working on getting an incredibly boring accounting job. My sister in law was a singer and performer and I met a lot of people in the industry who needed help doing their taxes. At first, I was preparing their taxes for a visit and a bottle of wine. The demand was heavy and I did my best to help. However, after several months I decided I needed to either start charging or become an alcoholic.
So I quit my boring uptown accounting job and decided to give self-employment a try. I set up an office in my basement and started actively soliciting clients by going to plays and concerts and talking to the performers. (and I got to write off all the tickets) at the time the film industry was in its infancy and a lot of people started making money and really needing proper tax services so soon I was becoming a real business, with employees and a photocopier. Overtime I moved from my basement to a few offices around town before settling into my very own commercial building on Rupert street in December 1999. we were there for 20 years. around 2008 I decided to downsize so I kept our best clients, moved upstairs and rented out the bottom floor. with my pension plan complete, we are now in a real office building on Canada way.
TAX MASTER
Terri
One of the longest surviving characters in the off OFF Broadway production of Stage One, Terri was originally cast in the role of receptionist back in 1993 when a phone was just a phone.
Recognizing she was more than just a day player it didn't take long before Producer Judy re-cast Terri in the beefier role of bookkeeper.
Sinking her teeth into the role like a Pitbull on a T-bone steak it didn't take Terri long to realize at Stage One it's always all hands on deck whether manning or womaning the front desk or behind the scenes.
Best known for persistently reminding clients of monthly expenses they'd much rather forget, Terri would often be lost behind a mountain of receipts rivaling Mount Everest, or a large laundry basket from Walmart.
Specializing in the seemingly ever-changing TV mystery of the week as to what can and can not be expensed . . You know who you are!
Rumor has it when sparring with CRA regarding client audits, Terri does so with a pair of gloves once owned by Mike Tyson. After almost Three decades of taking and giving beatings on Stage, in the ring, and at the School of Hard Knocks with Dean/Producer/Commandant Judy Rhodes,
Terri has learned everyone has a plan until the CRA punches them in the face!
BOOKKEEPER
Jacine
Running loose in the world back in 2017 a then young Jacine was captured by a then cast member of Stage One, and deposited at the front door. Following a rigorous audition, it was then that Producer Judy cast Jacine!
Starting as Judy's PA; For all you film peeps that's not Production Assistant but her Personal Assistant. Although it very well may have been as the Production Assistant for Stage One!
Once graduated from PA school Jacine was then tasked with bookkeeping, managing the office, and of course all her previous PA responsibilities.
These days you won't see her in the office often, as Warden Rhodes did grant her furlough! You can rest assured she's keeping up with all her responsibilities as well as a host of other tasks. These days she focuses on reminding clients to bring in their GST quarters, as well as reminding them about all those pesky pieces of paper they've "forgotten"! In the words of Tom Cruise, help her help you!
BOOKKEEPING
Leanne
Leanne has been working at Stage One for over 5 years, helping with documents and sorting the never ending receipts. She loves organized people that make her life simple and easy, but she doesn't get intimidated by a mountain of stained, messy, wrinkled, and dusty receipts. She is usually working behind the scenes. Or if it is your lucky day you might find her at the front desk answering your call. For a few privileged ones, she will run after you for an autograph on your reports.
PERSONAL TAX ASSISTANT
Jazmin
Jazmin Medina is working towards her BBA degree and as a side hustle getting her T1 tax preparation certificate. She arrived at Stage One during the busiest time of year (Tax Season) to an office full of talented and strong-willed women. Her goal is to be the next Luca Pacioli (inventor of the double-entry bookkeeping system) while providing the best customer care possible.
OFFICE MANAGER
Brandi
Brandi joined the troupe in late 2021 and was eager to fill her role as Office Manager.
As a total newb to anything numbers and taxes, Judy took her under her wing and showed her the ropes. She is now starting to understand what she’s typing out on your financial statements rather than just writing what’s been dictated to her!
With over 20 years of experience in the customer service industry, she’s well versed in juggling multiple responsibilities from sifting through the emails and maintaining officer supplies, to HR, all while helping the crew stay on task.
You’ll get to know Brandi right as you start with us as she’ll make sure you’re set up with all you need. You’ll also get to know her if you owe us money – but her sweet nature makes those calls feel less awful to receive.
BOOKKEEPER
Joshna
Joshna brings over 20+ years of experience to the Stage One team.
As a former business administrator, she is well acquainted with handling the bookkeeping for clients from the US and UK as well as Canada, of course.
Joshna is an avid movie buff, and having clients who are involved in the making of them really keeps plain old data entry a bit more enticing!
Unfortunately, you’ll most likely never speak with her, just know she’s “fan-girling” in her office.
Reception
Emma
Emma is the newest member of the Stage One cast.
She did not expect her background in theatre to be somewhat an asset when applying to work for a tax accounting office.
Thrown on “stage” for the peak of tax season, she thrived on the fast-paced energy of the office full of hard-working and talented women.
Although originally cast as an understudy, she accepted the role of the main receptionist and looks forward to greeting anyone who comes into the office with the first smile you’ll see.
You will soon get to know her voice on your answering machines reminding you of your upcoming appointments.
Once you’re here, her experience as a barista will ensure you’ll have the perfect Keurig coffee or boiled water for tea!