WHO IS GAPAS?
About Us
Genesis Advance Performing Arts Society (GAPAS). At GAPAS, we believe that the arts hold immense value—both educational and transformative. Through our performances and programs, we offer a blend of education and entertainment to local and global communities. We are driven by the principles of truth, freedom, and peace, understanding that each is essential to a thriving, harmonious society.
Our mission is rooted in the belief that the strength of any community lies in the diverse talents and voices of its people. By nurturing those talents, we inspire growth, unity, and creativity.
Performance Arts Society
Our Story
Founded in 2005 and officially restructured in 2007, GAPAS emerged as a response to the need for holistic education through the arts. We have since developed a wide range of programs designed to highlight cultural, historical, and spiritual themes while reaching out to our community through engaging performances and events. One of our milestones includes being the first organization to establish a Black History Month celebration in Brampton, Ontario, in 2006. This initiative solidified GAPAS’s role as a leader in cultural awareness and community enrichment.
Today, GAPAS continues to promote unity and growth through dynamic productions and educational outreach, bridging past and present through artistic excellence.
Our Vision & Values
To create a world where the arts inspire peace, unity, and understanding.
Our values guide every aspect of our mission, empowering us to stand boldly on the foundation of truth. Through a holistic educational approach, we encourage personal integrity and growth to achieve freedom, peace, and prosperity.
- Truth
- Integrity
- Education
- Community Impact
The Roots of GAPAS
Our Founder
Shadrock Porter – playwright, director, singer, and actor – is the visionary behind GAPAS. He is a recipient of the prestigious Dora Mavor Moore Award and has dedicated his life to uplifting communities through the performing arts.
Originally from Guyana, Shadrock discovered his singing talent early in life, earning him fame as a soul artist across the Caribbean. His music continues to be celebrated and played on radio stations throughout the region.
Driven by his love for the arts, Shadrock immigrated to Canada, where he quickly made his mark in film, theatre, and television. His film career saw him working alongside renowned actors like Charles Bronson (Family of Cops), Al Pacino, and Burt Reynolds. He also appeared in numerous commercials for major brands such as Budweiser and Federal Express, as well as on television shows like Top Cops.
In theatre, Shadrock achieved one of his greatest accolades, winning the coveted Dora Mavor Moore Award (Canada’s equivalent of the Tony Award) in 1983 for his outstanding performance as Nick Bottom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream with Black Theatre Canada.
Through his leadership and creative vision, GAPAS continues to inspire and educate audiences with stories that honor heritage, resilience, and hope.
Carrer Awards
Shadrock Porter is renowned for his impactful works, including ‘Shadow of the Slaves,’ a theatrical tribute to Canada’s role as a sanctuary during the Underground Railroad era. His critically acclaimed musical “The Journey” has captivated audiences with sold-out performances across New York, London, and Toronto.
GAPAS and Seven Branch Theatre Production
Shadrock founded both Seven Branch Theatre Production and Genesis Advance Performing Arts Society (GAPAS) (originally called The Israelite Academy of Performing Arts). Through these organizations, Shadrock established a school to train young artists in acting, music, and other performing arts disciplines. His students learn not only the technical skills but also the deeper artistic nuances and secrets that have shaped Shadrock’s illustrious career.
With his vast experience in music, journalism, acting, public speaking, playwriting, and directing, Shadrock Porter has continually found ways to express his creative spirit. He has shared his talents with audiences across the world, always striving to inspire, educate, and uplift through meaningful storytelling. His ability to connect with people through art remains at the heart of his life’s purpose and legacy.
A Legacy of Cultural Restoration
Shadrock’s artistic vision expanded as he devoted his life to restoring the historical knowledge, identity, culture, and religious practices of the Israelites. He became a prolific playwright and director, with works such as:
- The Story of Ruth
- For Heaven’s Sake!
- A Tribute to Our Freedom Fighters
- Freedom Fighters – In the Mind of a Child
- The Journey
- The Shadow of the Slaves
His most celebrated play, The Shadow of the Slaves, tells the powerful story of six runaway slaves and an abolitionist Quaker who guides them through the trials of the Underground Railroad on their way to freedom in Canada. The production has enjoyed years of sold-out success in Toronto, captivating audiences with its raw portrayal of struggle, hope, and resilience.
In the Mind of a Child
2007
African Landing Day Commemoration
2019