Rockland Pickard is a writer and creative lead in Toronto. Originally from Innisfail, AB, he moved to Toronto in 2011 to pursue comedy. In 2015 he started Funnies for Families alongside co-founder Kristie Gunter, and currently serves as Creative Director.

As Creative Director, Rockland oversees the show quality and brand  of Funnies for Families. This includes programming shows, overseeing graphic design, finding new games to play, and monitoring audience satisfaction, in addition to performing at shows.

Rockland has always loved comedy and has been deeply impacted by seeing first-hand the effect it can have on families going through tough times. He is inspired by the many volunteers who work with funnies and commit to using their improv skills as a tool to soothe souls.

He has trained at Second City Toronto and Impatient Theatre, completing many programs and classes including The Conservatory program. His comedy heroes are Harris Wittels, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Ted Danson & Mike Schur.

After experiencing the incredible generosity of Ronald McDonald House Charities Calgary, Rockland wanted to volunteer for the organization. He and Kristie developed Funnies as a monthly show – using their training and hilarious peers to give back. Since then, Funnies has grown to 15 shows per month and nearly 200 volunteers. Many volunteers say that performing in Funnies for Families shows feels like what improv is for, and Rockland agrees.

Approaching all problems with an analytical mindset, Rockland is committed to finding new and effective ways to show the world the the benefits of Funnies for Families, which he has experienced countless times. He is proud to represent and serve such important work.