Grove Guild September 2026 - An Interview with Isaac Bell
The September Grove Guild meeting featured a lively conversation with performer Isaac Bell about his musical-theatre career, his experiences at The Grove and much more. Isaac was joined by his wife, Chantel—a welcome bonus—and his guitar, which, Chantel told us, he never goes anywhere without.
When asked where he considers home, Isaac answered simply: “Here—wherever Chantel and I are together is home.” He was born in Oshawa, grew up in Courtice and later divided his time between Bobcaygeon, where his parents bought a home, and Toronto.
Isaac’s journey as a musician and actor began with his first round of applause, following a performance in his high school production of Bye Bye Birdie. Inspired by the experience, he went on to attend Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts, which has since closed.
Chantel revealed that Isaac is entirely self-taught as a musician. Along with guitar and other stringed instruments, he plays piano and drums. Asked which role feels most natural to him, Isaac said he thinks of himself as a musician first. Singing is one of his strongest skills, followed by acting.
Career Highlights
Reflecting on his career, Isaac shared several memorable experiences, including:
Director Leslie Wade taking a chance on him and casting him in Legally Blonde and a production at the Toronto Fringe Festival.
Playing John Phillips of The Mamas and the Papas in Dream a Little Dream, written by Phil Ledoux.
Performing in Once at Neptune Theatre in Halifax and The Grand Theatre in London, Ontario.
Taking part in an actor-musician production of Cabaret at The Grand.
Playing Tommy in Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story on numerous occasions.
Isaac feels fortunate to have a career doing what he loves. For him, every performance and every role is a highlight.
The joys and challenges of performing at The Grove
Isaac described the logistical demands of Spamalot, with its many props, sets and costumes. Bringing the show’s Broadway spectacle to a smaller stage meant managing elaborate scenery, oversized props and heavy costumes in the summer heat. The production was a logistical beast, but the audience’s laughter made it worthwhile—even when it came to a giant can of Spam that appeared only once in the entire performance!
Outdoor theatre brings other challenges, too: rehearsing under a blazing sun or staying perfectly still during an emotional scene while mosquitoes try to land in your eyes and mouth. But those discomforts are balanced by beautiful evenings when Isaac can look around the woods and feel grateful that this is his workplace. That connection is especially strong during the Canadian Music Legends shows, where he performs Canadian music for Canadian audiences in a stunning natural setting.
Despite the heat, sweat and bug bites, he considers making music in such a magical place a privilege. Asked what it’s like to watch her husband perform, Chantel described The Grove as a magical theatre experience from the moment you arrive. This year, she attended several shows, including Same Time, Next Year, which Isaac watched from the audience for the first time. The lantern-lit woodland walk and charming fairy doors set the scene, while the thoughtfully arranged seating, excellent acoustics and lovely views make every seat a good one. Welcoming staff and dedicated volunteers add to the atmosphere. Even after countless performances, the trees, night sky and shared energy make each visit feel special.
Isaac also spoke about the importance of The Grove’s youth camp. Giving young people in and around Fenelon Falls access to live theatre can help them imagine performing as something they might pursue themselves. That exposure can spark a passion and open up possibilities they may never have considered. Young performers gain hands-on experience building sets, creating costumes, learning music and working together toward a deadline. For some, stage fright gives way to a love of performing as they discover the excitement of connecting with an audience. Isaac’s message to young people who feel drawn to the stage is simple: follow that interest. It is possible—and it can bring tremendous joy.
Isaac explained the complexities of repertory theatre, where performers must manage several shows at once. It takes an intense rehearsal schedule and mental flexibility. He recalled a performance of Spamalot when the backing track for “All For One” failed to play. The cast adapted by singing a cappella. Fortunately, the song suited the approach, turning a technical hiccup into a live-theatre moment that many audience members may not even have noticed.
Reflecting on his two seasons at The Grove, Isaac noted changes in both the seating and musical accompaniment. He hopes continued success will bring larger audiences, greater community involvement and even more ambitious productions.
A “vibes captain” and lifelong musician
After three years at Trent University, Isaac realized what he didn’t want to do. Theatre was something he did, and he knew that if he didn’t pursue it, he would regret not trying. So he forged ahead. As a slightly older student and a natural mentor—he had experience as an older brother—he became the self-appointed “vibes captain,” a term he coined. He brought encouragement, humour and gratitude to rehearsals.
At The Grove, Isaac has helped younger actors navigate the demands of rehearsing during the day and performing at night, offering perspective when fatigue sets in. He admires the remarkable talent around him and recognizes that mentorship goes both ways: there is plenty to learn from younger performers, too. His advice is to stay positive, arrive ready to work, support one another and appreciate the privilege of making theatre together. Isaac recalled being a new performer himself and how much it meant to be given an opportunity. He praised The Grove for giving emerging talent the chance to shine and develop.
Performing in The Grove’s rotating season fulfilled Isaac’s ambition to juggle multiple shows while keeping each night fresh and exciting. The combination of daytime rehearsals and evening performances required stamina and careful organization. In return, he had a summer filled with music he loved and work he looked forward to—and felt disappointed whenever rain cancelled a performance.
After 18 years of playing guitar, Isaac still finds it difficult to share his songwriting, measuring every lyric against the work of his musical heroes. Chantel has patiently waited nearly a decade for a song, reassuring him that it’s good enough while he insists on making it better. When he finally releases his music, he jokes, everyone will hear about it.
To close the conversation, Isaac treated Guild members to a heartfelt performance of Utah Phillips’ “Rock Salt,” accompanying himself on guitar. It was a moving finale that left hardly a dry eye in the room.
Your Co-chairs,
Brenda Devine & Pj Murray
