Mountain Standard Time Performative Art Festival Society

The Mountain Standard Time Performative Art Festival Society (M:ST) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion, recognition, and sustainability of performative art practices in Southern Alberta. Registered with the Business Number 872855903RR0001, the society is based in Calgary, Alberta, and is known primarily for organizing a biennial performative art festival of the same name.

Mission and Objectives

M:ST's mission is to ensure that performative art, an interdisciplinary and experimental art form that includes elements of theatre, dance, visual art, and music, is supported and maintained within the Southern Alberta region. The organization emphasizes ethical reflexivity, social change, and cultural dialogue through innovative and risk-taking programming. Its activities aim to foster artistic development locally, nationally, and internationally, while also educating and engaging the public in contemporary performative practices.

The M:ST Performative Art Biennial

The centerpiece of the society’s activities is the M:ST Performative Art Biennial, a major festival held every two years across Calgary and the Southern Alberta region. This event spans several weeks and features a diverse program of:

• Thought-provoking live performances
• Artist talks and panel discussions
• Interactive workshops
• Exhibitions

The festival showcases the work of both Canadian and international artists and collaborative groups. It is recognized as the sole performative art festival of its kind in Southern Alberta, maintaining a unique collaborative structure and leveraging partnerships with public art galleries and academic institutions as venues and co-presenters. The programming is free and open to the public, contributing to accessibility and community engagement.

History and Development

Established in 2001, the Mountain Standard Time Performative Art Festival Society has grown into a critical platform for contemporary performative art in the region. The festival celebrated nearly two decades of existence with its ninth edition in the fall of 2018. Over the years, M:ST has gained critical acclaim and expanded its role in presenting high-quality cultural experiences that further education and critical discourse in performative arts.

Partnerships and Community Impact

The success of M:ST is bolstered by its partnerships with various arts organizations and institutions in Southern Alberta. These collaborations help strengthen the festival's reach and impact, ensuring a diverse and dynamic set of programs and artist engagements. Through its innovative programming and community-oriented approach, M:ST continues to be a vital contributor to the cultural landscape of Calgary and its surroundings.

Conclusion

The Mountain Standard Time Performative Art Festival Society stands as a significant cultural institution within Canada, particularly in Alberta’s arts sector. By focusing on performative art's evolving practices and fostering a community of artists and audiences, M:ST plays a central role in sustaining and advancing this artistic form in Canada.

Note: This article summarizes publicly available information about the Mountain Standard Time Performative Art Festival Society as of 2025, incorporating its mission, history, and contributions to the arts community.[1][2][4]