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Indigenous
Barrin May
His soulful voice soothes and soars with passion beyond his years. Growing up surrounded by music in St. Theresa Point Anisininew Nation in Manitoba, Barrin May learned the power and spirit of song and cherished traditional teachings.
Barrin, a singer/songwriter, took inspiration from artists like Hozier and Chris Stapleton at the start and has intently been charting his own path, one that honors his family and friends - those that he calls home.
Barrin, a singer/songwriter, took inspiration from artists like Hozier and Chris Stapleton at the start and has intently been charting his own path, one that honors his family and friends - those that he calls home.
Chanelle Munroe
Introducing Chanelle Munroe, The Mystical Trickster of Magic- the only female Métis magician in the world. With a spellbinding career spanning across the U.S. and Canada, Chanelle has graced diverse stages from fairs and festivals to casinos and corporate events. Most notably, she took the spotlight as headlining illusionist at Magic Immersive Chicago, where she set a record for the most bullet catches achieved by any female magician in the world- catching over 100 bullets in her career. Her passion is working with Indigenous youth and teaching them how to do magic tricks of their own. She also facilitates “Movement is Medicine”, “Speak Your Truth” and “Métis Music” workshops.
Clayton T. Stewart
In Loving Memory of Clayton:
Clayton was a proud Ojibwe and Treaty member of Peguis First Nation, a gifted performer, and most importantly, a dear friend. His humor, kindness, and larger-than-life spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
He shared his talent across Canada and the United States, bringing laughter to stages in Los Angeles, New York, Hawaii, and many communities in between. Audiences loved him both as a stand-up comic and as his unforgettable vaudeville-style magic character, “Clayton The Great,” where he amazed, shocked, and delighted crowds with his one-of-a-kind style.
Clayton also appeared in film and television, with roles in Goon, Sorry For Your Loss, Less Than Kind, Todd & The Book of Pure Evil, and Cashing In. Whether on stage or on screen, he had a natural ability to make people feel joy.
Sadly and tragically, Clayton lost his life in a house fire in December 2025. His passing is a tremendous loss to the comedy and performance community, and an even greater loss to those who knew and loved him. He was our friend, our colleague, and someone who brought light into the lives of others simply by being himself.
We keep Clayton here in honor of the laughter he gave, the culture he proudly represented, and the memories he created with us and with audiences everywhere.
He may be gone, but his spirit, stories, and laughter will always remain part of our journey. Rest in peace, Gentle Giant.
Clayton was a proud Ojibwe and Treaty member of Peguis First Nation, a gifted performer, and most importantly, a dear friend. His humor, kindness, and larger-than-life spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
He shared his talent across Canada and the United States, bringing laughter to stages in Los Angeles, New York, Hawaii, and many communities in between. Audiences loved him both as a stand-up comic and as his unforgettable vaudeville-style magic character, “Clayton The Great,” where he amazed, shocked, and delighted crowds with his one-of-a-kind style.
Clayton also appeared in film and television, with roles in Goon, Sorry For Your Loss, Less Than Kind, Todd & The Book of Pure Evil, and Cashing In. Whether on stage or on screen, he had a natural ability to make people feel joy.
Sadly and tragically, Clayton lost his life in a house fire in December 2025. His passing is a tremendous loss to the comedy and performance community, and an even greater loss to those who knew and loved him. He was our friend, our colleague, and someone who brought light into the lives of others simply by being himself.
We keep Clayton here in honor of the laughter he gave, the culture he proudly represented, and the memories he created with us and with audiences everywhere.
He may be gone, but his spirit, stories, and laughter will always remain part of our journey. Rest in peace, Gentle Giant.
Don Burnstick
Don Burnstick is a Cree from the Alexander First Nation located outside of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Being the youngest of 15 children and growing up on the reserve taught Don a variety of coping mechanisms, most notably his sense of humour.
His early life was steeped in violence and addiction. "I lived on the streets of Edmonton as an alcoholic and drug addict. In 1985, when I sobered up at 21, there were not too many 21 year old males that were alcohol and drug free so I was asked to share my story."
Don attended post secondary education at the University of San Diego in Holistic Urban Youth Development. He also has obtained certification as an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor and graduated from the Native Trainers Development program at the Nechi Institute in Edmonton.
He has now been involved with the healing/personal wellness movement for over 30 years and has utilized humour and performance to provide a holistic approach to healing. His message speaks to a proud heritage, the importance of healing through laughter and his continuing desire to leave a better world for future generations. Don wrote and performs a one man play: "I Am Alcohol - Healing the Wounded Warrior". In this production, free of preaching or moralizing, Don presents a gripping dramatization of the addictive power of alcohol and drugs, and the connections to other destructive forces that have plagued the Indigenous communities.
In addition to his healing work, Don has established himself as one of Canada’s most sought after comedians.
His early life was steeped in violence and addiction. "I lived on the streets of Edmonton as an alcoholic and drug addict. In 1985, when I sobered up at 21, there were not too many 21 year old males that were alcohol and drug free so I was asked to share my story."
Don attended post secondary education at the University of San Diego in Holistic Urban Youth Development. He also has obtained certification as an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor and graduated from the Native Trainers Development program at the Nechi Institute in Edmonton.
He has now been involved with the healing/personal wellness movement for over 30 years and has utilized humour and performance to provide a holistic approach to healing. His message speaks to a proud heritage, the importance of healing through laughter and his continuing desire to leave a better world for future generations. Don wrote and performs a one man play: "I Am Alcohol - Healing the Wounded Warrior". In this production, free of preaching or moralizing, Don presents a gripping dramatization of the addictive power of alcohol and drugs, and the connections to other destructive forces that have plagued the Indigenous communities.
In addition to his healing work, Don has established himself as one of Canada’s most sought after comedians.
Gabby Taylor
After more than a decade, Manitoba’s Gabby Taylor is back on the Canadian music scene working on a new album. Gabby’s last release was in 2007, “Where I Feel Alive” which garnered two #1 hits “Cool Me Down” and “You’re the One”, “Cool Me Down” was also named single of the year in 2008.
Born in Norway House, Gabby Taylor now resides in St. Theresa Point-Island Lake, a small remote community in northern Manitoba. He’s the youngest of seven siblings and still enjoys leisure activities like fishing, boating, woodworking, snowmobiling, and spending time with his family and friends.
Gabby believes creating music brings about personal healing. His latest work touches on life’s trials and tribulations, love, and heartache and has brought him personal focus and revitalization. He says through his passion and integrity he hopes to reach his audience in a good way.
Earlier this year Gabby headed back to the studio to record. His sound this time around will be more mature as he wants to convey a wider array of emotions to listeners. With the continued support from followers, family and friends, he is influenced to continue to play, sing, and write songs.
Born in Norway House, Gabby Taylor now resides in St. Theresa Point-Island Lake, a small remote community in northern Manitoba. He’s the youngest of seven siblings and still enjoys leisure activities like fishing, boating, woodworking, snowmobiling, and spending time with his family and friends.
Gabby believes creating music brings about personal healing. His latest work touches on life’s trials and tribulations, love, and heartache and has brought him personal focus and revitalization. He says through his passion and integrity he hopes to reach his audience in a good way.
Earlier this year Gabby headed back to the studio to record. His sound this time around will be more mature as he wants to convey a wider array of emotions to listeners. With the continued support from followers, family and friends, he is influenced to continue to play, sing, and write songs.
Gerry "The Big Bear" Barrett
Gerry "The Big Bear" Barrett is one of Canada's favorite Indigenous entertainers. Gerry is available for all events, especially Indigenous conferences or community shows. He is available to perform Indigenous themed stand-up comedy shows or his very popular, "Ojibwe Elvis" show, a tribute to the music of Elvis Presley. The Ojibwe Elvis show is available as a solo show featuring just Gerry singing LIVE to backing tracks or for those bigger shows, with his full-rock band, "Vegas Thunder".
Gerry has performed his stand-up comedy at many clubs, conferences and festivals He has performed as "Ojibwe Elvis" across Canada, several times at the Collingwood Elvis Festival, and Las Vegas. In 2013 Gerry was invited to perform his Comedy & Elvis show in Washington D.C. at an inaugural event for President Barack Obama.
Gerry looks forward to performing at your next event.
Gerry has performed his stand-up comedy at many clubs, conferences and festivals He has performed as "Ojibwe Elvis" across Canada, several times at the Collingwood Elvis Festival, and Las Vegas. In 2013 Gerry was invited to perform his Comedy & Elvis show in Washington D.C. at an inaugural event for President Barack Obama.
Gerry looks forward to performing at your next event.
Gerry McIvor
Gerry McIvor is a soulful and well-known guitarist, celebrated for his contributions to music and his dedication to Indigenous communities. He is a recipient of the Aboriginal Achievement Music Award and has made a significant impact with his album “Old Friend,” which was nominated for Best Blues Album at the Aboriginal Music Awards. His hit song "Anishinaabe Kwe" topped the charts on Indigenous radio stations across Canada. Additionally, his album “Wabigoon Fiddling” was nominated for Best Fiddle Album of the Year.
McIvor has had the honor of opening for prestigious acts such as Merle Haggard, Ray Charles, and Nazareth. His musical versatility is showcased in his ability to perform tribute shows to Chet Atkins and The Ventures. He performs in various formats: solo, with a Métis fiddler, or with the C-Weed band.
Beyond his musical talents, McIvor is passionate about teaching Indigenous youth to play music. He also conducts workshops where he shares his powerful anti-suicide message, drawing from his personal experiences as a suicide survivor. His advocacy and mentorship provide hope and inspiration to many young people.
McIvor has had the honor of opening for prestigious acts such as Merle Haggard, Ray Charles, and Nazareth. His musical versatility is showcased in his ability to perform tribute shows to Chet Atkins and The Ventures. He performs in various formats: solo, with a Métis fiddler, or with the C-Weed band.
Beyond his musical talents, McIvor is passionate about teaching Indigenous youth to play music. He also conducts workshops where he shares his powerful anti-suicide message, drawing from his personal experiences as a suicide survivor. His advocacy and mentorship provide hope and inspiration to many young people.
Junior Moar: Canadian Boxing Champion and Inspirational Speaker
Ralph “Junior” Moar, known as "The Real Deal," is a Canadian boxing champion whose remarkable journey from adversity to triumph makes him an inspiring figure for audiences of all ages, particularly Indigenous youth. As an Ojibwe light heavyweight boxer, Junior has claimed national titles, including the Canadian Light Heavyweight Championship, and holds an impressive professional record of 11 wins (2 by KO) and 3 losses. His story of resilience, redemption, and dedication to empowering others is at the heart of his motivational workshops and boxing camps for kids, offered through Thrillstar Entertainment.
Born in Winnipeg’s North End, a neighborhood known for its challenges with gangs and violence, Junior found solace and purpose in boxing from a young age. Starting at around age 10, he honed his skills in the ring, becoming the youngest member of the Canadian National Team and winning multiple amateur titles, including the Golden Gloves, Silver Gloves, and National Championships in 1997 and 1998, where he was voted the best boxer of the tournament. However, his early success was derailed by involvement with a gang, leading to a four-year prison sentence for a gang-related shooting. During his time in Stony Mountain Institution, including 27 months in solitary confinement, Junior faced immense challenges but emerged determined to turn his life around.
After his release in 2005, Junior left gang life behind, moved to Richmond, British Columbia, and recommitted to boxing under the guidance of former Olympian Manny Sobral. His perseverance paid off when he won the Canadian Light Heavyweight title in 2009, a testament to his ability to overcome obstacles and reclaim his dreams. Today, Junior is not only a champion in the ring but also a powerful voice for change, sharing his story to inspire others to overcome their own hardships.
Through Thrillstar Entertainment, Junior offers dynamic motivational workshops and keynote speaking engagements tailored to Indigenous communities. His presentations focus on themes of resilience, cultural identity, personal empowerment, and the importance of making positive choices. Drawing from his own experiences, Junior connects with audiences by sharing how boxing provided him discipline, focus, and a path to redemption. His authentic storytelling and engaging presence leave a lasting impact, encouraging youth to believe in their potential and pursue their goals despite setbacks.
In addition to his speaking engagements, Junior hosts boxing camps for kids, designed to teach young people the fundamentals of boxing while instilling values like discipline, confidence, and perseverance. These camps provide hands-on training, mentorship, and life lessons, offering participants a safe and supportive environment to grow both physically and mentally. Junior’s work with First Nations youth is particularly meaningful, as he understands the unique challenges they face and aims to be a role model for positive change.
Junior’s story has been featured in media outlets like CBC News, Windspeaker, and the documentary Making a Change, which chronicles his journey from prison to the boxing ring. His commitment to giving back to his community, combined with his powerful narrative, makes him an ideal speaker and mentor for Indigenous youth seeking inspiration and guidance.
Thrillstar Entertainment is proud to present Junior Moar as a motivational speaker and boxing camp facilitator, bringing his message of hope and transformation to communities across Canada. Let Junior “The Real Deal” Moar inspire your community to rise above challenges and fight for a brighter future.
Born in Winnipeg’s North End, a neighborhood known for its challenges with gangs and violence, Junior found solace and purpose in boxing from a young age. Starting at around age 10, he honed his skills in the ring, becoming the youngest member of the Canadian National Team and winning multiple amateur titles, including the Golden Gloves, Silver Gloves, and National Championships in 1997 and 1998, where he was voted the best boxer of the tournament. However, his early success was derailed by involvement with a gang, leading to a four-year prison sentence for a gang-related shooting. During his time in Stony Mountain Institution, including 27 months in solitary confinement, Junior faced immense challenges but emerged determined to turn his life around.
After his release in 2005, Junior left gang life behind, moved to Richmond, British Columbia, and recommitted to boxing under the guidance of former Olympian Manny Sobral. His perseverance paid off when he won the Canadian Light Heavyweight title in 2009, a testament to his ability to overcome obstacles and reclaim his dreams. Today, Junior is not only a champion in the ring but also a powerful voice for change, sharing his story to inspire others to overcome their own hardships.
Through Thrillstar Entertainment, Junior offers dynamic motivational workshops and keynote speaking engagements tailored to Indigenous communities. His presentations focus on themes of resilience, cultural identity, personal empowerment, and the importance of making positive choices. Drawing from his own experiences, Junior connects with audiences by sharing how boxing provided him discipline, focus, and a path to redemption. His authentic storytelling and engaging presence leave a lasting impact, encouraging youth to believe in their potential and pursue their goals despite setbacks.
In addition to his speaking engagements, Junior hosts boxing camps for kids, designed to teach young people the fundamentals of boxing while instilling values like discipline, confidence, and perseverance. These camps provide hands-on training, mentorship, and life lessons, offering participants a safe and supportive environment to grow both physically and mentally. Junior’s work with First Nations youth is particularly meaningful, as he understands the unique challenges they face and aims to be a role model for positive change.
Junior’s story has been featured in media outlets like CBC News, Windspeaker, and the documentary Making a Change, which chronicles his journey from prison to the boxing ring. His commitment to giving back to his community, combined with his powerful narrative, makes him an ideal speaker and mentor for Indigenous youth seeking inspiration and guidance.
Thrillstar Entertainment is proud to present Junior Moar as a motivational speaker and boxing camp facilitator, bringing his message of hope and transformation to communities across Canada. Let Junior “The Real Deal” Moar inspire your community to rise above challenges and fight for a brighter future.
Sly Da Supastar AKA SLY204
The son of an Eritrean father and Ojibwe mother from Skownin First Nations Reserve, Sly Skeetas formative years were marred by the intergenerational effect of the residential school system. He battled poverty and homelessness as a youth and rather than succumb to the pressures of that life he chose to channel it into his music. Hes an advocate for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Children and performs yearly at the No Stone Unturned annual concert in Winnipeg. His song M.O.M.M.Y , which speaks to the tragic circumstances Indigenous women face was so impactful it was added to the archives of the Parliament of Canada.
He is a voice for the voiceless. Hes an advocate for First Nations youth who are affected by poverty, teen suicide and many other socioeconomic issues. Sly Skeetas music, voice and songwriting have often drawn comparisons to Merkules, Winnipeg's Most and Swollen Members. During his 22 year career he has performed both domestically and abroad. The most notable milestones are two Cross Canada tours, an Australian tour, the Rotterdam Caribbean Festival in Rotterdam, Netherlands, the Fry Bread Festival in Los Angeles and auditioning for a Roc Nation A&R at the legendary Quad Studio in New York City. These opportunities provided
Sly Skeeta with the valuable experience needed to forge ahead in his career. He has released 2 mixtapes, an EP and a full length album; The HeArtist. His latest single features Juno nominated artist and producer 2 Rude. Hes been interviewed by CBC,
APTN, CTV and Energy 106 FM. He is currently working on 2 projects that will combine elements of Hip hop, Drum and Bass and Dancehall. His new project is slated release in the Fall of 2024. This is the most honest and transparent music he’s ever made. Its a true testament to his character and heritage.
He is a voice for the voiceless. Hes an advocate for First Nations youth who are affected by poverty, teen suicide and many other socioeconomic issues. Sly Skeetas music, voice and songwriting have often drawn comparisons to Merkules, Winnipeg's Most and Swollen Members. During his 22 year career he has performed both domestically and abroad. The most notable milestones are two Cross Canada tours, an Australian tour, the Rotterdam Caribbean Festival in Rotterdam, Netherlands, the Fry Bread Festival in Los Angeles and auditioning for a Roc Nation A&R at the legendary Quad Studio in New York City. These opportunities provided
Sly Skeeta with the valuable experience needed to forge ahead in his career. He has released 2 mixtapes, an EP and a full length album; The HeArtist. His latest single features Juno nominated artist and producer 2 Rude. Hes been interviewed by CBC,
APTN, CTV and Energy 106 FM. He is currently working on 2 projects that will combine elements of Hip hop, Drum and Bass and Dancehall. His new project is slated release in the Fall of 2024. This is the most honest and transparent music he’s ever made. Its a true testament to his character and heritage.
The Warrior Within
This workshop, founded by producer Darren Brule is geared towards youth that are eager to learn about songwriting, audio production and the music industry in general. More importantly, it is also a valuable resource for our young people to use as part of their healing journey to cope with bullying, trauma, abuse, violence, and addictions through our motivational workshops. This event gives them the opportunity to express themselves in a safe environment free of judgment.
OUR CORE VALUES
INCLUSION: The Warrior Within workshop welcomes all young people and will not tolerate bias or discrimination of any type during the course of the program. We recognize, respect and value the differences among us and believe that acknowledging and celebrating these differences lead to both stronger individuals and stronger communities.
SELF-EXPRESSION: There will be no creative or artistic boundaries set for our participants. We support the freedom for each participant to explore and create.
OUR CORE VALUES
INCLUSION: The Warrior Within workshop welcomes all young people and will not tolerate bias or discrimination of any type during the course of the program. We recognize, respect and value the differences among us and believe that acknowledging and celebrating these differences lead to both stronger individuals and stronger communities.
SELF-EXPRESSION: There will be no creative or artistic boundaries set for our participants. We support the freedom for each participant to explore and create.
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