For most people, mastering one demanding career is a lifetime achievement. For Calgary's Justina Aveyard, one is simply not enough. The actor and dancer, currently captivating audiences in the touring production of Moulin Rouge! The Musical, is simultaneously managing a staggering total of six jobs.
The Art of the Swing: A Demanding Role
In the theatre world, a swing performer is a specialist in controlled chaos. Aveyard's primary role in the hit musical is as a swing, meaning she must be ready to step into multiple ensemble tracks at a moment's notice. This requires an immense mental and physical catalogue of choreography, blocking, and vocals for various characters.
"It's about being prepared for anything," Aveyard explained in an interview with CTV's Ian White. The conversation, published on December 19, 2025, delved into the unique pressures and rewards of her position. The life of a swing is inherently unpredictable, often learning of a performance change mere hours before the curtain rises.
Juggling Acts: Life Beyond the Stage Lights
While the musical is a full-time commitment in itself, Aveyard's drive extends far beyond the ornate sets of the Moulin Rouge. To sustain her life and career, she balances five additional jobs. This multifaceted hustle is a reality for many artists, reflecting the economic challenges of pursuing performance arts in Canada.
Her jobs range across sectors, likely including teaching dance, hospitality work, or remote freelance gigs—common pillars in an artist's portfolio. This relentless schedule speaks to a profound dedication to her craft, where passion fuels the endurance needed for such a demanding lifestyle.
Embracing the Chaos
Rather than viewing her packed schedule as a burden, Aveyard frames it as a dynamic and energizing way of life. She actively embraces the chaos, finding synergy between her various roles. The discipline required for dance translates to focus in other jobs, and the creative expression on stage fuels her through more mundane tasks.
Her story is a powerful testament to the resilience of performing artists, particularly those in major touring productions who must manage life on the road alongside financial stability. Aveyard represents a generation of performers who are multifaceted entrepreneurs of their own talents.
The production of Moulin Rouge! The Musical continues to tour, bringing a slice of Parisian spectacle to cities across North America. For Justina Aveyard, each stop is another opportunity to showcase not only her theatrical versatility but also the incredible work ethic required to make a dream career stand on solid ground—even if that means working six jobs to do it.
