(Re)Setting the Stage seeks to situate debates about theatrical representation and the politics of casting in Canada within a broader historical context, advancing dialogue with directors, playwrights, actors, educators, students, and other creators who are actively transforming professional Canadian theatre and university-level theatre training.

Upcoming Events:

April 27th - 28th at York University

Is DEDI dead? What does this mean for Canadian theatre? The multi-dimensionality of the current backlash against DEDI initiatives has a direct bearing on the lives and careers of theatre artists across Canada, especially racialized and minoritized artists. Although meaningful changes have occurred in many professional and educational contexts since 2020, the growing backlash raises new, urgent questions: How have commitments to address structural racism and colonialism in the Canadian theatre industry, including conversations around casting and the representation of marginalized communities, been met? Which initiatives have succeeded, which have failed, and why? Though distressing, the current backlash is no surprise, nor is it the first time Canadian theatre artists and academics have contended with it. How can we face the current backlash together? What can we learn from previous backlashes and those who survived them? How can we adapt the tools, strategies, and models that worked before to support artists today? How might we need to create transnational strategies to build solidarities with those experiencing backlash in other international sites? How can we amplify the insights and gains made by equity-seeking artists, in part through these DEDI initiatives? How can theatre artists, educators, and students prepare for the next five years and beyond?

This two-day event will engage presenters and audience members in: reflecting critically on the DEDI work that has been achieved since 2020; identifying obstacles, including experiences of backlash, that have interrupted or impeded the realization of DEDI goals and related initiatives; sharing strategies for navigating backlash and strengthening the performing arts community locally and across Canada.

Poster design by Celine Daaboul.

Recent:

January 2024

Welcome to Shaking Up Shakespeare, a podcast dedicated to examining the legacy of William Shakespeare’s work, specifically in the context of Canadian theatre culture and Canadian society more broadly. Building on recent conversations about diversity and casting practices, colonial structures, and accessibility, this podcast brings together the voices of many individuals with diverse perspectives on Shakespeare.

Shaking Up Shakespeare Cover Art
Cover art created by Hope Van Der Merwe.

Quick Links:

(RE)CASTING SHAKESPEARE IN CANADA: A SYMPOSIUM

Discover an exciting deep dive into the intricacies of casting Shakespearean productions and adaptations in Canada.

CANADIAN THEATRE REVIEW 193: CASTING & RACE

A look at a brand new issue of Canadian Theatre Review edited by our team that focuses specifically on the topic of casting and race.

NEWS & EVENTS

Learn more about both past and upcoming events and stay up to date with news about ongoing projects and events.

(RE)SETTING THE STAGE: PANELS

Take a look back to the conversations reflecting on the past and future of casting practices in Canadian theatre during the “(Re)Setting the Stage” event in 2021. 

FIELD NOTES

Read in-depth essays, reviews, and historical studies of notable recent productions & more, written by our team!

GLOSSARY

Check out a comprehensive list of key terms and concepts related to historical and contemporary casting practices related to theatre and performance.

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