[4] Hoy grew up in Canada, and moved to San Francisco to study improvisational theatre.
She took up the role of artistic director at a new improvisational company, The Good Will Store.
She also taught theatre games in schools and correctional facilities, and acted in Robert Altman's 1971 film McCabe & Mrs.
[5] Following filming, Hoy moved to Los Angeles and gained an apprenticeship to Altman.
She worked in research, costume and production design, and acted in several of his films, including California Split, Nashville, 3 Women and A Wedding.