Buddies in Bad Times Theatre

Buddies in Bad Times Theatre is a Canadian professional nonprofit theatre company based in Toronto, Ontario. Founded in 1978 by Matt Walsh, Jerry Ciccoritti, and Sky Gilbert, it is dedicated to the promotion and development of queer theatrical expression and is recognized as the largest and longest-running queer theatre company in the world[2].

History and Development

Originally, Buddies in Bad Times was not explicitly focused on queer themes; its initial aim was to stage adaptations of poetry. However, during the 1980s, the company evolved under the sole leadership of Sky Gilbert toward a distinctly queer aesthetic and approach to theatre. This transformation marked Buddies as a company known for its unapologetically political, fiercely pro-sexual, and fundamentally anti-establishment works[2].

In 1983, Sue Golding joined as the founding Board President, a role she served until 1995, playing a crucial part in shaping the organization's direction during its formative years[2].

Artistic Contributions and Impact

Buddies in Bad Times has been the venue for the premieres of virtually all of Sky Gilbert's plays, highlighting the company's role as a key incubator of queer theatrical talent and innovation[4]. The company is also known for sponsoring festivals such as the Rhubarb Festival, which showcases experimental and alternative theatre[4].

Some of Buddies' earliest and most notable successes include Sky Gilbert's Lana Turner has Collapsed! (1980), The Dressing Gown (1984), Drag Queens on Trial (1985), and The Postman Rings Once (1987), alongside Don Druick's Where is Kabuki? (1989). Additionally, the company gained attention for unique community events such as the Sex Tours of the Church-Wellesley community, hosted by Gilbert's drag persona Jane[2].

Venue and Cultural Significance

Situated in Toronto's Church-Wellesley Village, Buddies in Bad Times Theatre serves as a vital cultural hub for queer culture and performance art in the city. It supports emerging artists by providing a versatile space for diverse theatrical productions and cultural expressions within the LGBTQ+ community[1][5].

Buddies in Bad Times remains a pioneering institution in Canadian theatre, continually fostering alternative and boundary-pushing queer narratives[1].

Business Registration Number: 118820778RR0001
Website: www.buddiesinbadtimes.com