Grand Boulevard Entertainment
Telling Stories that Matter
JOVANNA BURKE (she/her)
Since entering the film and television industry over 20 years ago, Jovanna Burke has produced, acted, and championed diverse screen-based content, including feature films, scripted web series, shorts, and television series. As founder and CEO of Grand Boulevard Entertainment, she is dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices and creating opportunities for women and minorities both in front of and behind the camera.
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Jovanna’s projects include the critically acclaimed series The True Heroines, nominated for a Canadian Screen Award for Best Digital Series, and the feature film Parallel, distributed by Vertical Entertainment. Her industry involvement includes participation in initiatives such as the GEMS Emerging Producers Program and the Whistler Film Festival’s Women in Focus program.
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A fierce advocate for women in the industry, Jovanna draws from her personal experience as a Latina woman and mother to champion inclusive storytelling. She is an active member of Gender Equity in Media Vancouver (GEMS) and the CMPA, remaining committed to fostering talent and empowering diverse voices in global storytelling.
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CREATIVE COLLABORATORS
CHELSEA HOBBS (she/her)
With over 30 years of experience, Chelsea Hobbs is a celebrated Canadian actress and writer known for her dynamic performances and commitment to authentic storytelling. From her early beginnings in Vancouver to acclaimed roles in projects such as Snow Queen and Make It or Break It, she has earned a reputation for delivering nuanced, compelling portrayals across film and television.
As a creator and writer, Chelsea has collaborated with Jovanna Burke at Grand Boulevard Entertainment for several years, co-developing a slate of scripted series and feature films. Her extensive industry expertise fuels her mission to craft narratives that amplify diverse voices and foster meaningful representation.
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Balancing a vibrant career and life as a mother of four, Chelsea remains a passionate advocate for pushing creative boundaries and championing inclusivity both on-screen and behind the scenes.
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RICK ALYEA
(he/him)
Rick Alyea is a Canadian filmmaker, writer and entrepreneur, known for his ongoing collaborations with creative partner Jovanna Burke. Their partnership began in 2004 with their first feature film, Part of the Game, a gritty drama about Vancouver’s drug underworld. Rick wrote and directed the film, while Jovanna starred in it. The film was nominated for the Borsos Award for Best Canadian Feature at the Whistler Film Festival, marking a key milestone in their careers.
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Since then, Rick and Jovanna have collaborated on various projects, including many YouTube shorts, with their latest being their 1/2 hour scripted comedy:Patio Town. The show is inspired by Rick’s business, 604 Wholesale, the series blends their entrepreneurial spirit and love for storytelling into a comedic and engaging project.​ Rick also served as the executive producer on JANE, the first project from Grand Boulevard Entertainment, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting innovative storytelling.
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In addition to filmmaking, Rick owns 604 Wholesale, a popular store offering stylish patio furniture at wholesale prices since 2009.
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