About Me
Irene Karas Loeper is a Canadian Actress, Producer, Podcast Host, and Consultant with a lifelong passion for storytelling and performance. Born and raised in Vancouver, BC, she is the daughter of Andrée Karas, Artistic Director Emerita of United Players Theatre Company. Irene trained as a performer at Circle in the Square in New York City, Gastown Actors Studio, and Vancouver Film School, and began her career on set as a production assistant, eventually becoming one of Vancouver’s most in-demand Production Coordinators. As the founder of ITQ Productions, Irene has built a vibrant career both on stage and behind the scenes. Her acting credits include roles such as Violet Newstead in "9 to 5 The Musical", Sissy in the world premiere of "Talking Sex on Sunday", Tanya in "Mamma Mia", Reno Sweeney in "Anything Goes" (earning her the Ovation Award for Best Lead Actress), and Daniela in "In the Heights" to name a few. She was recently nominated for a Leo Award for Best Performance for her lead role as Deb Wideman in the original comedy series "The Dressing Room", which goes back to camera for a second season this August where Irene will also be joining the team as a Co-Producer. Irene has been a professional working actor for over 25 years and has collected more than 75 credits on stage and screen. Irene’s producing work includes three short-form series as well as a documentary film as a Producer and Production Supervisor, recognized by the Leo Awards. She has worked on over 200 commercials on various production teams in BC. She is the Creator and Producer of "The Heritage Project", a collaboration with Moonrider Productions that creates personalized biography films celebrating family history that clients can cherish forever. Now in its fourth season, Irene’s podcast #ilo_onlocation features candid interviews with inspiring women from her creative community. Irene is also in development with "The Last Resort", a new comedy about hope and resilience. In addition to her creative work, Irene offers Consulting Services for performers at all stages of their careers and those looking to "break in" to the industry in front and behind the scenes. She also provides compassionate caregiving consultations for families navigating life transitions for their loving seniors. Whether on stage, on set, or in service to others, Irene brings passion, professionalism, and purpose to everything she does. She is a full union member of Canadian Actors’ Equity and UBCP/ACTRA, and is represented by Elena Kirschner at RED Management Inc.