Globe Theatre Society

The Globe Theatre Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to professional theatrical production and presentation. It operates as the governing body of the Globe Theatre, Saskatchewan's largest professional theatre company, based in Regina. The Society is overseen by a volunteer Board of Directors responsible for hiring the Artistic Director and managing organizational affairs.

Overview

The Globe Theatre Society runs a vibrant theatre program that annually produces and presents approximately six to seven professional main stage theatrical productions. These productions include a significant focus on Canadian works, with up to six Canadian theatrical productions featured each year. The organization aims to serve the public by providing high-quality, professional theatre experiences.[2][4]

Globe Theatre

The Globe Theatre itself is notable for being Canada’s only permanent professional "theatre-in-the-round," with a seating capacity of 406 patrons. This unique configuration offers an intimate and immersive experience for audiences. The theatre's Main Stage season runs from October to May, featuring a diverse range of plays and performances.

In addition to the main stage, the Globe Theatre Society supports the Shumiatcher Sandbox Series, which showcases new and emerging artists and presents approximately six shows annually that span theatre, dance, and multidisciplinary performances.[5]

History

The Globe Theatre was founded in 1966 by Ken and Sue Kramer, who served as its initial Artistic Directors. Ken Kramer led the theatre until 1989, followed by Susan Ferley until 1998. Ruth Smillie has been the Artistic Director since 1998. Over the decades, the Globe Theatre premiered works by prominent playwrights such as Brian Way, Rex Deverell, Gail Bowen, and Joey Tremblay, contributing significantly to Canadian theatre culture.[5]

The theatre moved to its current home in 1981, occupying the historic Prince Edward Building in downtown Regina. This heritage building, formerly Regina’s Old City Hall and Post Office, was granted royal patronage by Prince Edward in 1992.[5]

Governance and Affiliations

The Globe Theatre Society operates under a board-run structure with oversight from a volunteer Board of Directors elected by society members. The Society is registered with the Canada Revenue Agency and adheres to national standards for professional theatre production. It is a member of the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT) and employs artists and staff under the Canadian Theatre Agreement (CTA) governed by the Canadian Actors' Equity Association.[1][2][5]

Community and Cultural Role

The Globe Theatre Society plays a pivotal role in Regina’s cultural landscape by creating a safe, comfortable, and secure environment for audiences while fostering artistic development and community engagement. Efforts to refurbish and transform the Globe Theatre’s facility further underscore its commitment to maintaining a central cultural destination in the region.[3]

This article summarizes key information about the Globe Theatre Society, highlighting its mission, operations, history, and contribution to Canadian theatre.