This crazy cat lady grew up on a sheep farm in Canyon, B.C. (just outside of Creston). While at school there, Rita was very active in music lessons, Girl Guides, and band (flute and percussion), and can tell “band camp” stories with the best of them! From 1996 to 2001, Rita attended  the University of Lethbridge, majoring in neuroscience, and then moved up to the blustery city of Edmonton to study massage therapy and become an Emergency Medical Responder. In the midst of all this schoolwork, she found time to actively participate in the U of L Wind Orchestra, Percussion Ensemble, and Vox Musica Choral Society. Since moving to Edmonton, Rita has produced Kevin Armstrong’s 2011 and 2012 hit Fringe shows Opera for Heathens and Opera(as it wasn’t intended), and took on the role of Assistant Production Manager for Nelson Community Opera’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar in 2012. She is honored to be a part of this production, and is touched by the generosity of the people of the Kootenays in their support of Rent.