Hollywood Meets Hometown: Animation Legend Steve “Spaz” Williams and Actress Dana Boadway

SCUGOG: Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar and Grill in Port Perry will become the centre of creative energy and country charm on Saturday, August 23rd, at 1 p.m., when two notable names in entertainment, Steve “Spaz” Williams, the Canadian animation pioneer behind some of Hollywood’s most groundbreaking visual effects, and Dana Boadway, celebrated animator, performer and director, arrive for a special afternoon of film, music, and inspiration.

The event marks the exclusive presentation of Dana Boadway’s debut country music video, “Ozark Home,” in which she stars as the love interest opposite rising country star Jake Stringer. Known for her versatility in performance, Boadway’s role adds a heartfelt, cinematic touch to Stringer’s evocative storytelling. The afternoon will also include a discussion designed to inspire the next generation. Williams and Boadway will share insights on Canadian culture in entertainment and animation, the evolution of the film industry, and what it takes to succeed in a rapidly changing creative landscape.

A local native of Canada, Steve “Spaz” Williams, chief animator for Lucasfilm’s Industrial Light & Magic, is recognized as one of the true revolutionaries of computer-generated imagery (CGI) in Hollywood. His trailblazing work includes Jurassic Park (bringing dinosaurs to life like never before, including the original T-Rex we all know), The Mask, Terminator 2: Judgment Day, and Jumanji. Williams’ innovations transformed how movies are made and how audiences connect with visual storytelling. Today, he uses that same visionary spirit to motivate bright, curious minds, showing students and young creatives that imagination, combined with relentless determination, can change an industry.

Talent clearly runs in the family. Steve’s brother is comedian and actor Harland Williams, a fact Steve claims proves there is something in the Williams DNA, even if it is mostly sarcasm and caffeine.

Dana Boadway is a multi-talented artist whose career began as an actress and dancer before moving into a remarkable 25 years of animating for television, films, commercials, and video games. For 17 of those years, she taught animation at Animation Mentor, guiding aspiring artists in mastering their craft. Her work also spans acting, voice performance, directing, and now music video roles. In “Ozark Home”, she delivers a nuanced, emotionally resonant portrayal that complements Jake Stringer’s heartfelt lyrics. Beyond her work on screen, Boadway remains deeply committed to mentoring young performers and advocating for the arts as a bridge between communities.

The Screening of Ozark Home, a presentation on Canadian entertainment and animation, an audience Q&A, and meet-and-greet opportunities will take place on Saturday, August 23rd at 1 p.m. at Chuck's Roadhouse Bar and Grill, 14375 Simcoe Street, in Port Perry.

This event is free to attend and open to all ages. Aspiring filmmakers, animators, musicians, and fans of Canadian creativity will not want to miss this rare opportunity to meet two industry professionals whose careers span the worlds of Hollywood, music, and animation.