Originally from Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Thom Niles found acting as an outlet for self-expression. Budding beyond his small town, he moved to Québec. During his time at Bishop’s University, he played a quack doctor in Comedy of Errors. He had roles in television comedies like Trailer Park Boys and Let’s Get Physical. He always wanted to act, but it’s a challenging world.
Growing beyond the confines of the corporate world, Thom found a passion in communications as a student at Seneca Polytechnic. He says, “Every actor has a day job, and after working a stressful corporate job, I started seeking alternative paths. I love writing, so it felt like the time to pivot and learn how to be creative so I can earn an income and be creative.”
As a queer actor, it’s important for Thom to tell stories that are honest and uncompromising. After doing a monologue mash event, Thom realized there’s a space for queer stories. He performed in Heartbeast at St Ambroise Fringe Festival in 2023. This experience inspired him to do the forthcoming Born on a Raft production of the play The Best Brothers. He will be playing Kyle Best.
Thom is an actor’s actor. The stage will always call his name, no matter his day job.
-Written by Toronto writer Melriva Martins
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Which ’hood are you in?
I am in Little Italy. I’ve lived here for seven years- I love this neighbourhood, but also love my old neighbourhood of Saint Henri.
What do you do?
So many things! I’m a professional actor, I’m training to work in communications to expand my skill-set, and I just founded a theatre company.
What are you currently working on?
My theatre company is staging the Quebec premiere of The Best Brothers by Daniel MacIvor. We will run at the White Wall Studio from May 28-31. I’m playing the role of Kyle Best.
Where can we find your work?
You can come see my play in May! But I’ve done some great TV shows like Trailer Park Boys, Family Feud Canada, and I’ve also done some films like “Best Sellers” which stars Aubrey Plaza and Michael Caine.
