Talent Time Improved My Life!

An audience member’s chance to win $100. Photo by Lindsay Elliott for lindsaysdiet.com

Paul Anthony’s Talent Time is known for its community: a gathering of interesting people using the show to dive into the fascinating realm of Vancouver talent. With a love of those fans, the show decided to give back, vowing to improve our lives! I loved how the show looked at what “improvement” meant. How can you be rich and successful? How can you see the future and work towards your destiny? How can you overcome a disability and pursue your passion?

DA Top Talent share keys for success. Photo by Lindsay Elliott for lindsaysdiet.com

The first act was DA from DA Top Talent, one of Vancouver’s top 10 life coaches (according to Yelp). With a shiny red tie and a classic black suit, he looked like the stock photo of a businessman. I liked his tenacity and enthusiasm, with a timber in his voice that told me he’s got the answer. He talked about Napoleon Hill’s 13 Steps for Success, with such gems as Power of the Master Mind, The Mystery of Sex Transmutation, and The Sixth Sense (Trust Your Gut!).

Co-host Ryan Beil, psychic Cassandra MacLeane, Paul Anthony & house band. Photo by Lindsay Elliott for lindsaysdiet.com

Next up was psychic numerologist Cassandra MacLeane. When Paul asks if being a psychic can be a burden, she replies that it can be a hindrance when she meets some hot guys, because she can see that it won't end well. MacLeane is witty and conversational, but Anthony is really invested, seeking a personal revelation. It’s fun to see Anthony so invested in his guests.

At the start of the second half, Anthony brings out his young daughter. He tells us that she wants to sing. She takes the mic, looks at the audience, and instantly bursts into tears. Opportunity seems to be a common thread in each performance. When we heard that his cute kid wanted to sing, we were excited. We wanted her to succeed. But we were okay with her adorable stage fright.

Comedian John Cullen. Photo by Lindsay Elliott for lindsaysdiet.com

This was followed by stand-up comedian/curler/high school teacher John Cullen, who immediately admitted that, yes, he did choose the three-lowest paying jobs in three different industries. Cullen spoke about his time as a teacher, advocating that all teachers should be allowed five f-bombs per year, or one slap.

Robert Gagno, #1 ranked pinball player in Canada. Photo by Lindsay Elliott for lindsaysdiet.com

The last act of the night is an interview with Robert Gagno, Canada’s number one ranked pinball player, who was diagnosed with autism as a young child. He is reserved, talking about his favourite pinball machines with a permanent smile on his face. After a nice interview, Gagno plays a Walking Dead pinball machine. My favourite part was when the handheld camera shooting the pinball machine would pan up to show Gagno’s face, the audience would yell, “Show the game! Show the game!,” eager to watch the pinball machine like kids at an arcade. The show ended with Robert inviting everyone in the room to jump as high as they could, explaining that it was an activity he really enjoyed.

Ryan Beil, Paul Anthony & Robert Gagno hurl themselves in the air. Photo by Lindsay Elliott for lindsaysdiet.com

Once again, Paul’s Anthony’s Talent Time shakes up our nice sphere of Vancouver entertainment. The show is always delightful, carefully curated by Paul Anthony, letting you discover so much surrounded by so many lovely people. I highly recommend you take in the live show the first Thursday of every month at the Rio Theatre. February 4th marks their 8th year anniversary and will no doubt be another fun-filled, surprising celebration.