Amanda Brugel

(February 27th, 2010 - Toronto ON) Pointe Claire is a quiet community located on that part of the island of Montreal called"the West Island. This part of the island known as West Island can be confusing for those who aren't familiar of its purpose. It is often believed that it is an island that lies west of Montreal however it is actually a part of the city. West Island encompasses everything between the two cities in Lachine as well as West. Amanda Brugel's hometown is often cited, however her short visit to the West Island wasn't. Brugel grew on Courtice located just outside Oshawa located in Ontario. Her first ambition was to be an expert dancer. Then, a growth rate increased her height and she outgrew her dance partners she was able to have. In an interview with Toronto Star, she confessed that "In heels I'm 6 feet 1 inches." After I outgrew the male partners, I quit. A lot of former dancers go on to act. In Brugel's case it was because of the advice from her drama teacher at high school that led her to take the step she required. The teacher who suggested she take on a part in the annual school production. The teacher who suggested she pursue a part the school's annual show. It led to her receiving the Fine Arts Talent Scholarship from York University. In 2000, she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts at York University. In the 20+ years that followed, Brugel has landed roles in more than 60 productions across small and big screens drawing the most media attention after she was offered the part as Rita in the award-winning show The Handmaid's Tale (pictured below). Brugel was the sole Canadian actor during Season 1 of the series, and only seen occasionally.