Edmonton New Shadow Theatre Society

The Edmonton New Shadow Theatre Society, operating as Shadow Theatre, is a prominent nonprofit theatre organization based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It is registered as a charity under the Canadian Revenue Agency with the business registration number 894686849RR0001. The organization is known for producing engaging, contemporary theatre that highlights Canadian playwrights while also showcasing compelling works from around the world.

History and Background

Shadow Theatre was born out of the Edmonton International Fringe Festival in 1990 and was officially incorporated in 1992. It was co-founded by actor Shaun Johnston, known for his role on Heartland, and Artistic Director John Hudson, who remains a key figure in the organization. The company’s governance is maintained by a volunteer Board of Directors.

Activities and Mission

Shadow Theatre is dedicated to presenting productions that explore the complexities of the human experience, aiming to touch audiences emotionally while broadening their perspectives. The theatre primarily features modern classics, contemporary plays, and original works by local playwrights. Their productions often receive acclaim for being heartfelt, humorous, and thought-provoking reflections on themes such as love, loss, relationships, and life.

The company operates from the Varscona Theatre, a 200-seat venue located in the Old Strathcona district, which serves as a cultural hub for the community’s theatre scene.

Recognition and Community Engagement

Shadow Theatre is regarded as one of Alberta’s leading theatre producers, recognized for its commitment to championing Canadian voices within the theatre landscape. As a registered charity, it runs fundraising campaigns to support its mission and productions, emphasizing the importance of community contributions, especially evident during challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic when live theatre operations were temporarily suspended.

Artistic Contributions

The theatre has a strong focus on work by local playwrights and contemporary drama, striving to provide audiences with lively and thought-provoking performances. Shadow Theatre’s work has been described as an experience that feels personal and inviting, often likened to sharing moments with close friends, due to its relatable and intimate storytelling style.

This overview summarizes the role and impact of the Edmonton New Shadow Theatre Society as a vital cultural institution within Edmonton’s arts community, continuing a legacy of innovative theatre production since the early 1990s[2][4][5][1].