Our story
A group of University of Saskatchewan students established 25th Street Theatre as an artist collective in 1972.
They would go on to officially incorporate in 1974 becoming the first professional theatre company in Saskatoon.
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25th Street Theatre is a vital pillar in Saskatchewan’s arts ecosystem.
Together, we are the future of theatre.
SASKATOON-GROWN.
SASKATOON’S OWN.
Formed in 1972, 25th Street Theatre is Saskatoon’s first professional theatre company. The would go on to gain national acclaim in the 70’s and early 80’s for the group’s dedication to new, thought-provoking, Canadian works that reflect the Saskatchewan experience. Among their most acclaimed plays were stories such as Paper Wheat, Wolf Boy by Brad Fraser, and Jessica by Linda Griffiths and Maria Campbell.
For over 50 years we have been building the careers of Saskatchewan artists, and telling Canadian stories.
Our mission is to support local artistic development and Saskatchewan’s youth, by providing healthy, safe opportunities for individuals to share their talents, connect with the community, and learn from others. 25th Street Theatre works tirelessly to be a financially sustainable organization committed to amplifying underrepresented voices and creating thought-provoking, engaging theatre programming for SK audiences. We are proud to be known for our supportive work environment and have received accolades for our work in the community.
THE FRINGE FESTIVAL
In 1989, 25th Street Theatre expanded its program offerings to include the Saskatoon Fringe Festival.
For over 30 years, the Saskatoon Fringe has been a cultural landmark of Saskatoon supporting the creation of new work and artists who seek to work outside the traditional Canadian regional theatre model. As a member of the Canadian Association of Fringe Festivals (CAFF), the Saskatoon Fringe is a part of an international network of Fringe Festivals which provides a platform for artists from around the world to share their stories.
In 1999, due to financial constraints, 25th Street Theatre made the difficult decision to no longer produce their own shows. The organization chose to focus their efforts on the thriving Saskatoon Fringe Festival instead. Things carried on this way for 25th Street Theatre for over ten years, but then things changed…
Photography credit Nicole Stevenson
In 2020, 25th Street Theatre experienced two things for the first time:
1) the COVID-19 pandemic forced the first ever cancelation of the Saskatoon Fringe Festival
2) 25th Street Theatre received the largest financial gift in the organization’s history from Robert Steane.
The Festival was a combination of digital theatrical offerings, recorded panel discussions, small in person performances, children’s mini day camps, and community building projects. There were over 90 artists who participated in the Festival, and in a difficult time, received compensation for their work regardless of the viewership.
This Is Not That Festival
As a result, 25th Street Theatre created the This is NOT That Festival in the summer of 2020.
While the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated restrictions continue to complicate the traditional way of making theatre, 25th Street Theatre has repeatedly proven for nearly fifty years that the organization is adaptable and resourceful. 25th Street Theatre is a vital part of Saskatoon’s vibrant cultural landscape.
STRIVING FORWARD
A BRIGHT FUTURE
The ongoing need to develop new work and the next generation of artists has sustained this remarkable company for over 50 years.
Thanks to the passion and commitment of our new leadership, and incredible community support, 25th Street Theatre has returned to year-round programming that features new productions, youth engagement opportunities, provincial tours, and professional development opportunities.
In just 4 short years (2021-24), we accomplished the following and more:
– Produced 5 new Canadian plays including 4 premieres by local playwrights.
– Produced 4 Fringe Festivals, welcoming 40,000+ patrons annually.
– Toured 1 locally written youth show to 10 Saskatchewan communities.
– Provided 7 youth arts education series, engaging over 3,500 kids.
– Toured 2 Fringe shows and youth workshops to northern communities.
– Hired over 50 USASK students and graduates.
– Received 6 Saskatoon & Area Theatre Awards including The Trailblazer Award for our work towards cultural change/intersectionality/workplace betterment, and The Artistic Excellence for Organizations Award.
our values
1. Equity & Inclusion
2. Accountability
3. Safety
4. Connection
5. Environmental Stewardship