Irene Karas Loeper was born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, the daughter of Andree Karas, the Artistic Director Emerita of United Players Theatre Company. Her early training took place at the prestigious Circle in the Square in New York, followed by the Gastown Actors Studio in Vancouver and the Vancouver Film School.
In her recent theatrical endeavors, Irene made a notable appearance in the world premiere musical comedy "Talking Sex on Sunday," where she played the role of Sissy. Her other notable roles include Tanya in "Mamma Mia!", Daniella in "In the Heights," and Tilly in "It's A Wonderful Life" for the Arts Club Theatre Company in Vancouver, British Columbia.
In addition to her stage work, Irene has made a significant impact in the film and television industry, with notable roles in "The Buddy Games," "Impastor," "Two Stans and a Dan," "Spotlight on Christmas," and "Motive." Her performance as Reno Sweeney in the musical comedy "Anything Goes" for Theatre Under the Stars in Vancouver, British Columbia earned her an Ovation Award for Outstanding Lead Actress.
Irene has received numerous nominations for her work, including an Ovation Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her performance as "Miss Madelaine True" in the La Chuisa version of the musical "The Wild Party," and a Jessie Richardson Nomination and an Ovation Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her performance as "Mrs. Meers" in the musical comedy "Thoroughly Modern Millie."
In addition to her acting career, Irene has also ventured into producing and podcasting. She is the host and producer of her own podcast, #ilo_onlocation, which features interviews with amazing women in her life. She has also produced and performed in the web series "The Acting Class," which was nominated for a Leo Award for Best Web Series, and "The Staff Room." Furthermore, she was the production supervisor on the Leo Award-nominated documentary "Family Matters Surviving the Bipolar Journey."
Irene has recently completed the lead role of Deb Wideman in the independent comedy series "The Dressing Room" and just finished playing the lead role of Violet Newstead in "9 to 5: The Musical" with Royal City Musical Theatre, receiving rave reviews that can be seen on her official website.
She is also the producer and creator of "The Heritage Project," personalized biographical films celebrating family history through her company ITQ Productions, directed by Mark Halliday. Irene is married to the love of her life and enjoys her home in the country with her adorable puppy, and is represented by the wonderful Elena Kirschner at Red Management Inc. For more information about Irene, please visit her website.
