Swallow-A-Bicycle Theatre Society

The Swallow-A-Bicycle Theatre Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to creating innovative, site-specific theatrical experiences. Based in Calgary, Alberta, it is recognized as a leading purveyor of fearless and boundary-pushing professional theatre that engages audiences in unconventional spaces.

History

Founded in 2006 by Mark Hopkins and Charles Netto, Swallow-a-Bicycle Theatre began with a focus on original site-specific theatre—performances staged in unusual or non-traditional venues. Over more than a decade, the company developed a reputation for challenging conventional theatre norms and addressing social issues through its work. In 2018, the society adopted a new Art Manifesto that guides its artistic direction, emphasizing engagement with communities and power structures[1][4][5].

The organization's name is inspired by a quote from playwright Arthur Miller: “A playwright lives in an occupied country. He’s the enemy. And if you can’t live like that, you don’t stay. It’s tough. He’s got to be able to take a whack, and he’s got to swallow bicycles and digest them.” This reflects the theatre’s ethos of embracing challenge and discomfort to stimulate critical reflection and dialogue[1].

Mission and Vision

Swallow-a-Bicycle Theatre’s mission is to enrich the lives of artistic thrill-seekers by creating and presenting professional, innovative site-specific theatre experiences that push boundaries in unconventional spaces. The society aims to be recognized as Calgary’s leading purveyor of fearless site-specific professional theatre, encouraging audiences to engage in new conversations with themselves and their environments[4].

Artistic Approach and Impact

The theatre company is known for generating "productive discomfort" through its art-making process. It deliberately engages with power structures and shines a critical light on societal issues by amplifying the voices of outcasts, misfits, diverse communities, and artists who face barriers. Its projects often challenge complacency and conventions, using theatre as a medium for social interrogation and transformation[2][3].

Swallow-a-Bicycle Theatre holds itself accountable for the ethical implications of the discomfort it creates, emphasizing responsibility to the communities it engages and adherence to ethical working practices. Its work extends beyond performances to include workshops focusing on professional artistic development, such as Viewpoints and Neo-Bouffon techniques[3][4].

Leadership and Team

Co-founded by Mark Hopkins, who serves as Co-Artistic Director, the society is guided by a team of artists and administrators committed to its vision. Hopkins is also associated with Human Venture Leadership, an initiative aimed at building collective capacities to reduce ignorance, error, waste, suffering, and injustice. Another key team member, Mpoe Mogale, brings expertise in community-based research, facilitation, and arts administration, reflecting the theatre’s commitment to diverse and inclusive leadership[1].

Registration and Legal Status

The Swallow-A-Bicycle Theatre Society is registered as a charitable organization under Canadian law, with Business Registration Number 837373489RR0001. It complies with the requirements of the Canada Revenue Agency and issues tax receipts for donations, supporting its fundraising efforts to sustain its mission-driven activities[5].

The Swallow-A-Bicycle Theatre Society continues to be a vital part of Calgary’s cultural landscape, using theatre as a tool to provoke thought, challenge societal norms, and foster meaningful community dialogue[2][3][5].