College of the North Atlantic (CNA) students don’t just learn from experts, they learn from industry trailblazers. One of those is acclaimed musician, actor, and instructor Mallory Clarke, whose latest project,
Maiden Voyage, is making waves in St. John’s.
The high-energy musical, featuring a mix of traditional Newfoundland folk and musical theatre, is opening to eager audiences after a successful run at Rising Tide Theatre.
Maiden Voyage, penned by writer Meghan Greeley with music by Clarke, is inspired by the classic folk song
Willie Taylor. The story blends epic ship battles, family drama, and a compelling journey of self-discovery, all wrapped in a toe-tapping, adventurous score.
Not only did Clarke compose the music, but she also takes centre stage in the lead role, a challenge she described as both exhilarating and demanding.
“The show is almost Shakespearean in scope,” Clarke said. “It’s a thrilling mix of adventure and emotion, with a deep message about identity and courage. And the music? It’s a love letter to Newfoundland’s storytelling traditions.”
While Clarke is lighting up the stage, her impact is equally powerful in the classroom at CNA’s Paul L. Pope Centre for TV & Film. As an instructor, she bridges the gap between education and industry, ensuring students receive hands-on, real-world training from day one.
“We’re not just talking about acting in theory, we’re giving students concrete skills to develop their craft,” she explained. “Acting doesn’t have to be a mystery. Talent is something you can actively grow through process and practice.”
CNA students aren’t just learning from Clarke, they’re working alongside her. Two second-year TV & Film Creation students, who impressed their instructor in class, landed roles in Rising Tide Theatre’s production of
Maiden Voyage last summer.
“It’s an incredible full-circle moment,” Clarke said. “To teach students, recognize their talent, and then bring them into a professional production - it’s exactly what CNA’s TV and film programs are all about.”
Clarke said the programs are designed with industry relevance at their core, providing students valuable insights into current trends, opportunities, and challenges in the field.
“One of the biggest advantages of having industry-connected instructors is that we can offer up-to-the-minute advice on what’s happening right now,” she said. “I share real examples from my own projects, so students see firsthand how a career in the arts is not only possible but thriving.”
For students at CNA, having instructors who are actively shaping the industry isn’t just inspiring, it’s a career advantage. With opportunities to learn from and work with professionals like Clarke, the next generation of actors, filmmakers, and creators are getting the best possible start in their careers.
Maiden Voyage runs at the Majestic Theatre in St. John’s from April 2-6. For more information, visit
Majestic Theatre - St. John's, NL - Maiden Voyage.
For more information on CNA’s TV and film programs, visit
College of the North Atlantic - School of Academics, Applied Arts & Tourism.
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Media Contact
Ryan Crocker
Manager of Communications
P: (709) 699-8981
E:
ryan.crocker@cna.nl.ca