The second part of my story begins with the birth of my first child, a time that forced a great reset, or maybe a second iteration, of Lindsay-Anne as I knew her. I experienced the downside of hypervigilance and anxiety, two traits that had fueled me for most of my life.

Depression was deep and dark and frightening. It's like nothing I've ever experienced, nor hope to again. The mind is so very powerful and when those processes we've put in place over time to keep us balanced and regulated are no longer there, the mind malfunctions. And the result is crushing; almost unbearable.

But this is yet another time that led to change and a new outlook; a new way. The struggle of becoming a mother shocked me because I wasn't prepared. Why wasn't I prepared? Thankfully I learned an important lesson about vulnerability, which I carry with me to this day.

This episode concludes the solo, single talking head part of this series and I'm excited to get into the real behind the scenes work on Dear Evan Hansen! Who should I have on the show first?

For more information or tickets to see Dear Evan Hansen in Kelowna, visit Kelowna Actors Studio: https://kelownaactorsstudio.com/

How did we get here? Who am I? Why am I doing this anyway? This is part one of my story. Where and how I grew up, and when I first caught "the bug." My church years and how I believe being in a worship band shaped my voice. And then there was that time on Popstars ... anyone remember that show?!

Growing up looks different for everyone. And here's a little bit about how it was for me, from my youth and adolescent years in Victoria, to finding love and making the move to Kelowna (a smaller, but up and coming city with a blossoming arts scene).

I believe each part shaped who I am and prepared me for what's next: playing the role of Cynthia Murphy in Dear Evan Hansen this spring.

For more information or tickets to see Dear Evan Hansen in Kelowna, visit Kelowna Actors Studio: https://kelownaactorsstudio.com/

My name is Lindsay-Anne Dow and I'm playing Cynthia Murphy in an upcoming production of Dear Evan Hansen at the Kelowna Actors Studio.

This debut episode will introduce you to the podcast and central theme of connection through performing arts. I'll lay the foundation for why this is a subject I'm passionate about and how it all relates to Dear Evan Hansen, the Tony award winning musical.

Clip used from Armchair Experts podcast, Chris Stapleton episode. https://armchairexpertpod.com/

Kelowna Actors Studio and ticket info: https://kelownaactorsstudio.com/