By Nadia Delisfort
Today, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on new NYWIFT member Hayley Pace, an award-winning production designer and actor whose unique blend of skills and passions continues to inspire us!
Hayley Pace hails from Toronto, Ontario. They are known for their work on Schitt’s Creek (CBC), In The Dark (CW), and The Expanse (Amazon Prime). In addition to their on-screen work, Hayley has self-produced original projects through their experimental marching band theatre company, The Teeny Tiny Music Show, and has designed for numerous film, TV, and theatre productions across Canada.
A graduate of the Stella Adler Studio of Acting and York University’s BFA in Devised Theatre & Design, Hayley brings a dynamic and multidisciplinary approach to their artistry.
We caught up with Hayley to discuss their career, their creative journey, and what brought them to NYWIFT.
NYWIFT Member Hayley Pace
What brings you to NYWIFT?
I was referred to your organization through Mark Ricche, who saw me last November in a cyberpunk rendition of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which I had the pleasure of both performing and set designing. Having come from an extensive production background in Toronto, I was looking for ways to find work and network with the film communities in New York. NYWIFT feels like the professional support structure that will help anchor me.
Hayley with the cast of Schitt’s Creek
As both an actor and production designer, how do you balance your creative energy between performing and designing for film, TV, and theatre?
When I’m doubling roles, I have to remind myself that I don’t need to do everything myself, and it’s okay to ask for help from the people around me. I consider, with far more scrutiny, who I am working with. If I’ve doubled up, it means you’re a dear friend who has shown me that you respect me as an artist and human being. When I am working in an environment that is respectful, I can actually access more creative output.
Hayley playing Olivia in Twelfth Night
Reflecting on your experience as a jury member for the Paris International Movie Awards, what insights did you gain about global filmmaking, and how has that influenced your artistic vision?
My favorite thing about it was that I could see what people from all over the world were talking about. It brings to mind this short I saw from an Israeli filmmaker — a day-in-the-life about a pizza delivery girl whose dreams are repeatedly squashed by the consequences of the present.
It made me ask myself, “How do I create something that sticks with people, like this film stuck with me? What is that esoteric thing that made me remember this film with crystal clarity?” I learned that storytelling is what matters the most, and there’s a craft to it. As a self-producing artist, what are the biggest challenges and rewards of wearing multiple hats?
The biggest challenge is that I am my own source of power. If I don’t feel like getting it done that day, the only person it’s affecting is myself. The rewards… is that you can tell yourself you did it. You have irrefutable proof that you can make your vision a reality, and that’s a powerful thing.
Hamletmachine — First stage design
What do you believe is the most important skill an artist needs to thrive in such a multifaceted career as yours, spanning acting, design, and even gaming?
It’s allowing yourself to do what you need to do to stay activated, and being okay with that. Don’t be afraid to trailblaze, and find other artists who have. I am inspired by artists who do it all. There’s this idea in the industry that you need to specialize… But I’m a person who needs variety to stay activated. It’s just about moving, and taking breaks when you need it.
Teeny Tiny Music Show — Hayley’s marching band theatre company
With so many achievements across different disciplines, what motivates you to keep exploring new creative frontiers?
I am a very curious person, and I have interest in all the arts. These inspirations have flashes for me. The trouble I’m having is that they don’t stick. I have never been able to incorporate routine and consistency. Instead, I’ve been trying to accept this trait and work with it. I think that creates motivation. It’s all about getting to know yourself and what works for you.
The production of Midsummer Hayley designed and performed in
Follow Hayley on her Instagram at @haelaaaaa or visit her website at https://www.hayleypace.com.
(All images courtesy Hayley Pace)
Nadia Delisfort
Nadia Delisfort (she/her) is a storyteller at heart, whether she's bringing narratives to life on stage or crafting them behind the scenes. From the bright lights of Broadway—where she's worked on productions like Yellow Face, Death Becomes Her, and Spamalot, and even with the Tony-winning Freestyle Love Supreme!—to producing commercials and branded content, Nadia’s passion for impactful storytelling and meticulous planning shines through. She has worked on campaigns for brands like Lush, Van Leeuwen, and Raising Cane’s, bringing her creative vision and organizational expertise to a variety of projects.
She’s beyond excited to be a current NYWIFT intern!
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