News & Updates

Welcome to the DS Spotlight Productions News page!

Stay connected with the latest stories, media features, successes, and community moments from DS Spotlight Productions Society. We’re a Kelowna, BC-based non-profit empowering adults with Down syndrome through inclusive, professional-level training in film/TV acting and dance. Our programs build skills, boost confidence, foster joy, and create real opportunities for authentic representation in storytelling and performance.

Kelowna 10 Features Our Empowering Acting Classes

A heartfelt spotlight from Kelowna10 highlights how our Brewing Talent acting and improv classes at EMC Studios are transforming lives! Instructor and EMC Studios founder Damon Gregory leads vibrant, laughter-filled sessions where adults with Down syndrome explore creativity, build confidence, and challenge perceptions through accessible techniques like repetition, imagination exercises, and honest presence.

Participants like MJayes, Holly, and Parker shared the joy:

Damon Gregory emphasized the mutual growth: “I’ve learned a lot of patience and understanding… These students are capable of anything that all the rest of us are.” The classes address the need for more local activities and showcase the honesty, presence, and potential participants bring to every session.

This feature celebrates the inclusive energy and real-world impact of our programs—proving representation and opportunity start right here in Kelowna.

Watch the full video: https://kelowna10.com/this-kelowna-acting-class-empowers-adults-with-down-syndrome/

Most Recent Newsletter: 4 Actors with Down Syndrome at Snakebite – Film Training Pays Off!

Our talented actors Holly Womacks, Joanna Kathleen Morris, MJayes Spiritman, and Parker Begg delivered standout performances at the Snakebite Film Festival in Penticton! They brought their talents to the screen in the short film Agent of Chaos (produced by Ryan Curtis, co-directed by Damon Gregory at EMC Studios), winning Best Audio in the 5-Day Film Challenge.

This achievement showcases the power of our Brewing Talent classes: turning skills into real on-screen success with heart, unique perspectives, and authentic collaboration.

Big thanks to our partners (EMC Studios, Sweat Studios), volunteers, and the community supporting inclusive filmmaking!

Click for Full newsletter:

Watch the film

CBC Radio Spotlights 'Shakin It Up' Dance Classes

Our Spotlight in Motion dance program earned a wonderful feature on CBC’s Daybreak South! The segment captured the empowering, joyful vibe of our classes at Hype Dance in Kelowna, where participants build coordination, expressive movement, body awareness, and confidence—ideal preparation for performance and camera work. Instructor Anna Dermott and participants shared the inclusive fun, with huge thanks to Kristian Matis at Sweat Studios for providing free studio space.

Check out the energy on our Instagram reels!

CBC clip: Click here

Newsletter: https://conta.cc/4bZlgkY

Thank You & Exciting Updates from Our Community

A huge thank you to the Kelowna community

A huge thank you to the Kelowna community—families, businesses, disability service providers, and partners—for your support since we formed DS Spotlight Productions Society. Your encouragement helps us thrive and grow!
Our programs continue to offer professional, supportive training in dance and film/TV acting, focusing on skill-building, self-expression, and inclusion in a welcoming environment.

Full details in the newsletter: https://conta.cc/4oSrYfq

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