Indigenous Peoples have created and performed traditional stories, dances, and songs for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans. It was not until the 17th century when the first recorded European-style theatre production took place in Quebec, presented by priests. During the 19th century, theatre in Canada flourished, with the rise of touring productions, local companies, and theatres. However, most productions were influenced by British and American styles, with little focus on Canadian stories or themes.
In the early 20th century, Canadian theatre began to take on a more distinct identity. The Group of Seven, a group of Canadian painters, inspired a movement towards a more Canadian style of theatre. This movement eventually gave rise to the establishment of the Dominion Drama Festival in 1932, which aimed to promote Canadian plays and playwrights.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Canadian theatre experienced an influx of creativity and experimentation, with the emergence of theatre companies such as Toronto Workshop Productions and Theatre Passe Muraille. These companies explored new approaches to theater.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Canadian theatre continued to evolve, with an increased focus on multiculturalism and diversity. Companies such as Native Earth Performing Arts and Black Theatre Workshop were established to showcase Indigenous and Black voices, respectively. There was also a growing interest in feminist and queer theatre.
When the Protestant and Catholic churches were still not supportive of theatre, plays were performed wherever they could be. This usually meant in a tavern with an all-male cast. The first buildings devoted to performing arts were the Theatre Royal in Montreal and the Royal Circus in Quebec City, both built in 1825. Travelling companies soon started making an appearance, especially after the building of railway systems.
Sources cited:
Encyclopedia, Canadian Theatre. “Canadian Theatre History.” Canadian Theatre Encyclopedia - Canadian Theatre History, https://www.canadiantheatre.com/dict.pl?term=Canadian+Theatre+History
Wagner, Anton. “Canadian Theatre History.” View of Don Rubin, Ed. Canadian Theatre History: Selected Readings | Theatre Research in Canada / Recherches Théâtrales Au Canada, https://journals.lib.unb.ca/index.php/tric/article/view/7122/8181
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