Meet
YOUR EMCEE
Cory Cassel Productions is far more than a typical event planning company—it is the modern evolution of a lifelong mission to build, celebrate, and connect small-town communities. Rooted deeply in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley, the company was born out of Cory Cassel’s passion for creating inclusive spaces where people from all walks of life could gather, let their hair down, and share a laugh.
WITH 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE, CORY IS THE GUY FOR YOUR EVENT
Deep Local Roots
Growing up in Mission, BC, Cory learned early on what it meant to belong to a community. His family’s connection to the region stretches back to the 1940s in Deroche, giving him a deep appreciation for rural Fraser Valley life. Over 30 years ago, he got his start organizing local events and community festivals. His passion for grassroots connection led him into media—publishing regional What’s On! lifestyle magazines to highlight local culture—and eventually into venue management.
Pioneering
Inclusion
A defining chapter in Cory’s journey came when he spearheaded the transformation of a notorious, former biker pub into The Stage in Mission. Cory turned it into the city’s first explicitly inclusive space, introducing regular drag shows and diverse performances to a historically conservative area. His core motivation was simple: everyone deserves a safe, welcoming place where they can be themselves and feel celebrated. That experience proved that live entertainment could act as a bridge—breaking down barriers and creating shared joy regardless of background.
Giving Back as the Ultimate Purpose
At the heart of Cory Cassel Productions is a "why" driven by community service. Having served on boards, managed the historic Abbotsford Agrifair, and worked closely with non-profits like the Mission Hospice Society and Fraser Valley Youth Society, Cory saw firsthand how hard it was for charities to raise money through stale, repetitive fundraisers. He launched his production business to redefine community events—turning ordinary galas and pub nights into high-energy experiences like Music Bingo that raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for causes close to his heart.
Cory Cassel Productions exists because Cory believes entertainment should do two things simultaneously: bring people together for genuine, unpretentious fun, and leave the local community stronger than it was before.
30+ Years in Entertainment
He isn't a newcomer to the stage—Cory has been working in the events and entertainment industry for over three decades, starting out in event planning long before Music Bingo became his signature event.
Pioneered Inclusive Spaces in Mission
Cory was the general manager and driving force behind The Stage in Mission, BC. He transformed a former rough-and-tumble pub space into the city's first inclusive venue, bringing regular live drag shows to the local area for the very first time.
Fair Manager & Community Fundraiser
He serves as the Fair Manager and Executive Director of the historic Abbotsford Agrifair. Over his career, his events and charity fundraisers have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local organizations, including the Mission Hospice Society and the Fraser Valley Youth Society.
Publisher and Media Creator
Earlier in his career, Cory expanded his event promotion footprint by publishing regional lifestyle and community guides, including What's On! magazines across Mission and Abbotsford.
Civic Leader by Day, Host by Night
In addition to running an entertainment company, Cory serves as an elected politician in British Columbia. He was elected to the Fraser Valley Regional District Board as the Director for Electoral Area G—representing communities like Deroche, Dewdney, and Hatzic Island.
Frequent Traveller to Japan
Cory and his husband love to explore Japan! They have visited Yosuke’s birth country over 20 times together and especially enjoy visiting small towns and villages in the countryside of the northern regions of Japan.
Meet Joe Bower, the visionary behind Joe's Cuts. With a natural talent for haircutting and a dedication to excellence, Joe has turned his passion into a thriving business where every cut reflects his commitment to innovation.
David, the maverick of shears, brings a rebellious edge to Joe's Cuts. With bold strokes and ingenious techniques, he's a perfectionist who pushes the boundaries of traditional grooming, ensuring every client leaves with a daring and flawless style.
Meet Kareem, the rhythmic artist of Joe's Cuts. A musician at heart, his mastery with shears and trimmers is akin to a jazz performance, where each cut is a harmonious blend of precision and creativity.
Meet Erica, the powerhouse stylist at Joe's Cuts. Strong, stylish, and passionate about enhancing men's confidence, she brings a blend of expertise and flair to every haircut, ensuring her clients leave looking and feeling their absolute best.