New Hope Theatre
Marcia Anderson - Creator, Writer, and Director
Marcia Anderson founded New Hope Theater to offer children and youth something far more meaningful than ordinary basement crafts. Her heart’s desire is to plant the Word of God deeply into their hearts, souls, and spirits through the creative power of drama, music, dance, and performance—creating joyful childhood memories and faith-filled truths that will sustain them in hard times.
As a pregnant and struggling 17-year-old, Marcia received life-changing encouragement at Victoria Composite High School (now Victoria School of the Arts) in downtown Edmonton. Her Drama teacher, Lynda Adams — herself a former teenage mother who had dropped out of school — took Marcia under her wing, insisting she stay in school and continue contributing to the dance and drama programs. Her art teacher, David Morris, also believed in her talent and supported her in completing her full Grade 12 arts credits.
Thanks to their support, Marcia earned recognition for her all-around artistic achievement and, in her final year, was cast in the school’s production of the gospel musical Godspell. Though she lived a largely secular life for many years, the seeds planted through Godspell and her teachers remained.
A few years ago, family crises brought Marcia back into a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and the transforming presence of the Holy Spirit. Realizing how empty life feels without Him, she felt called to help children and teens hide God’s Word deep inside through rehearsal, practice, and meaningful performance—so those truths will rise up when they need them most.Marcia is incredibly proud of the young people in the program, ages 8 to 18.
Many of the girls who have grown through New Hope Theater continue to return as volunteers and helpers, building strong friendships and connections. We warmly welcome parents, mentors, and volunteers who want to get involved.
As a pregnant and struggling 17-year-old, Marcia received life-changing encouragement at Victoria Composite High School (now Victoria School of the Arts) in downtown Edmonton. Her Drama teacher, Lynda Adams — herself a former teenage mother who had dropped out of school — took Marcia under her wing, insisting she stay in school and continue contributing to the dance and drama programs. Her art teacher, David Morris, also believed in her talent and supported her in completing her full Grade 12 arts credits.
Thanks to their support, Marcia earned recognition for her all-around artistic achievement and, in her final year, was cast in the school’s production of the gospel musical Godspell. Though she lived a largely secular life for many years, the seeds planted through Godspell and her teachers remained.
A few years ago, family crises brought Marcia back into a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and the transforming presence of the Holy Spirit. Realizing how empty life feels without Him, she felt called to help children and teens hide God’s Word deep inside through rehearsal, practice, and meaningful performance—so those truths will rise up when they need them most.Marcia is incredibly proud of the young people in the program, ages 8 to 18.
Many of the girls who have grown through New Hope Theater continue to return as volunteers and helpers, building strong friendships and connections. We warmly welcome parents, mentors, and volunteers who want to get involved.
It is our prayer that some of these talented young women may one day help lead and direct this growing ministry.
Dr. Parry Stelter
Bible teacher, speaker, and writer with a heart for biblical reconciliation and Christian ministry
Dr. Parry Stelter is a member of New Hope Church and serves on our Praise Team. He also provides pulpit supply and pastors some Sundays throughout the year. Originally from Alexander First Nation and a Sixties Scoop survivor, Parry holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Justice, a Master of Divinity, and a Doctorate in Contextual Leadership. He is an experienced Bible teacher, speaker, and writer with a deep passion for biblical reconciliation and Christian ministry. Parry and his wife Angeline have been married for 25 years and make their home in Edmonton with their family and energetic dog, Ravenna. Parry brings a heartfelt love for Jesus and His church, and we are thankful to welcome him and his family into our New Hope family.
Dr. Martina Tillotson
Doctor of Christian Ministry | Praise Team Member & Ministry Leader at New Hope Church | Author, Songwriter & Expressive Arts Practitioner
Dr. Martina Tillotson is a Doctor of Christian Ministry, author, expressive arts practitioner, and songwriter who carries a distinctive call to help others move into spiritual and creative freedom. She is a valued member of New Hope Church, where she serves on the Praise team, occasionally speaks on Sundays, and runs various courses and programs at the church. Martina is also the founder of Elim Oasis of Inner Healing and Sky North Music, and serves as a key leader within the Healing Pathways Wellness Initiative at New Hope Church.Through her work, Martina creates pathways where faith and creativity intersect—inviting individuals into deeper encounters with God through reflective practice, storytelling, expressive art, and music.
Her message is rooted in the belief that God, the Master Artisan, is restoring what has been silenced or buried—calling individuals to partner with Him in a journey of healing, creativity, and renewed identity. Through workshops, teachings, written works, and original music, Martina guides participants beyond surface-level faith into embodied transformation—where healing is not only understood, but experienced. Her programs, including Emotive Expressive Art Adventures and Creative Conversations, offer safe, Spirit-led environments for individuals to process their stories, rediscover their voice, and reconnect with God’s presence.Drawing from a life marked by perseverance, leadership, and deep personal healing, Martina brings both spiritual authority and compassionate insight to her work. She is passionate about equipping others to live authentically, create freely, and walk confidently in their God-given identity.
Dr. Martina Tillotson
Masterful Artisan | Sky North Music | Elim Oasis of Inner Healing
New Hope Church – Praise Team & Ministry Leader
martinatillotson@healingpathwayswellnessinitiative.org (mailto:martinatillotson@healingpathwayswellnessinitiative.org)
https://www.youtube.com/@martinakeast6575
780-270-2158
Her message is rooted in the belief that God, the Master Artisan, is restoring what has been silenced or buried—calling individuals to partner with Him in a journey of healing, creativity, and renewed identity. Through workshops, teachings, written works, and original music, Martina guides participants beyond surface-level faith into embodied transformation—where healing is not only understood, but experienced. Her programs, including Emotive Expressive Art Adventures and Creative Conversations, offer safe, Spirit-led environments for individuals to process their stories, rediscover their voice, and reconnect with God’s presence.Drawing from a life marked by perseverance, leadership, and deep personal healing, Martina brings both spiritual authority and compassionate insight to her work. She is passionate about equipping others to live authentically, create freely, and walk confidently in their God-given identity.
Dr. Martina Tillotson
Masterful Artisan | Sky North Music | Elim Oasis of Inner Healing
New Hope Church – Praise Team & Ministry Leader
martinatillotson@healingpathwayswellnessinitiative.org (mailto:martinatillotson@healingpathwayswellnessinitiative.org)
https://www.youtube.com/@martinakeast6575
780-270-2158
