Kitchener-Waterloo Little Theatre
The Kitchener-Waterloo Little Theatre (KWLT) is a Canadian volunteer-driven nonprofit community theatre organization established in 1935. Registered as a charity with the Canada Revenue Agency (Business No. 118983543RR0001), it operates in Waterloo Region, Ontario, with a mission to provide theatrical education and performance opportunities accessible to community members of all experience levels.

History

Founded on February 24, 1935, during a meeting at the Kitchener YMCA, KWLT emerged from a broader community theatre movement in Ontario. Fred L. Dreger, a local lawyer, became its first president. The inaugural production, held later that year at Kitchener Collegiate Institute’s auditorium, marked the start of regular performances hosted at educational venues for decades.

KWLT joined the Western Ontario Drama League (WODL) shortly after its founding, participating in annual festivals. Its 1938 entry, Elizabeth the Queen, earned the Meredith Trophy for Most Improvement. The organization paused operations during World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic but otherwise maintained continuous activity, including rebuilding after a fire destroyed its dedicated theatre space.

Operations

KWLT operates as an entry point for novice actors, with open auditions and volunteer-driven productions. It emphasizes hands-on learning through workshops and mentorship, including programs like the Popcorn Plays, which provide practical training in acting, directing, and technical theatre. The organization collaborates with regional arts groups and rents its facilities to external organizers.

As a registered charity, KWLT relies on donations and grants to support its programming, focusing on accessibility and community engagement. Its productions span classic and contemporary works, reflecting both local talent and collaborative partnerships.