Bessie is a theatre artist, musician, educator, and Cultural Ambassador of Nelson (2015). While based in Vancouver, Bessie was a core member of Mortal Coil (stilt-dance theatre) and Zeellia (Eastern European music), creating original work and touring North America and Europe.
In 2006, Bessie returned to Nelson to develop a solo show, Hello, I Must Be Going, which she will remount this fall. When not on stage (Hedwig & the Angry Inch, Arms & The Man, Carmina Burana, Kootenay Divas, Bessie Wapp & Friends), Bessie directs the Blue House Choir, leads classes, and teaches private lessons.