Creative Combat

For more than a decade, Kelly VanderBeek professionally threw herself down mountains at speeds exceeding 145 km/h. Today, this Olympian and World Cup Medallist makes her living as a speaker, sports broadcaster, photographer, and creator. Her career has taken her around the world as a host and reporter for nine Olympic Games, the Calgary Stampede, and guest roles hosting everything from variety shows to Red Bull events. Behind the lens, Kelly is an award-winning photographer and SONY industry advisor; on the canvas, she is a gallery-represented artist. These are just some of the pursuits that fuel Kelly’s mind, body, and curiosity—whether she’s globe-trotting for work or enjoying the Bow Valley at home with her World Champion Kayaker husband, David Ford, and their son, Cooper.

Bridget Ryan has built a life in the arts by taking risks, making bold moves and rarely staying in one lane for very long. A Distinguished Graduate of MacEwan Theatre Arts and the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music BFA Musical Theatre Program, Bridget began her career performing in New York City, appearing Off-Broadway and working alongside some of Broadway’s leading producers. She later spent fourteen years as the host and producer of Citytv’s Breakfast Television Edmonton. Today, Bridget is the Artistic and Creative Director of Carter-Ryan Gallery and Live Theatre in Canmore, where she produces nine professional productions each year. She also creates immersive art experiences, writes children’s books, directs theatre and film, and is currently producing her first feature movie with her partner, Jason Carter.

Rob Murray is one of Canmore's busiest DJs. As the owner of Class Act DJ Service, he spins tunes at over 60 weddings and other events in the Bow Valley every year. Canmore's former local radio morning show host for over two decades, Rob began the next chapter of his career after being successfully elected to Canmore Town Council in 2025. An avid fan and supporter of artsPlace who has been an instructor, performer, audience member, and the Council representative on the Board of Directors, Rob is thrilled to be a part of Creative Combat's swan song.

Luna Ivana is a Calgary-born circus artist, creative technologist, and lifelong maker. She began performing in 2014, just months after picking up her first hoop. Determined to earn her circus stripes and challenge herself across multiple disciplines, Luna continued expanding her practice while integrating technology into her performances. That curiosity eventually led her to designing and building her own LED props and wearables. In 2024, she founded lunatecz with a mission to make creative technology more accessible to underrepresented artists. An advocate for mental health, women’s and LGBTQ+ rights, Luna uses her work to inspire artists to create boldly, lead with integrity, and shine their light authentically.