Inter-Act Theatre Society
The Inter-Act Theatre Society is a Canadian nonprofit arts organization based in Medicine Hat, Alberta, specializing in community-driven social theatre. Founded in 1987, the society focuses on addressing contemporary social and health challenges through participatory performances that emphasize audience interaction and collective problem-solving. Registered as a charitable organization (Business Registration Number: 118969823RR0001), its mission centers on empowering individuals to navigate life's difficulties using theatrical storytelling as a tool for personal and communal growth.

Overview
Inter-Act Theatre employs a collaborative model, blending professional guidance with community participation to create productions that explore themes such as interpersonal relationships, mental health, and systemic societal issues. The group describes its approach as fostering "emotional intelligence" by encouraging participants to share lived experiences and experiment with solutions through symbolic performance[^1^]. Annual productions often feature spoken-word performances, scripted plays, and experimental formats, such as its 2024 staging of Shane Koyczan’s spoken-word poetry[^2^].

Methodology
The society operates under the principle of "theatre by the community, for the community," prioritizing grassroots involvement in all stages of production, from writing to performance. Workshops and rehearsals emphasize collective decision-making, with actors and non-actors collaborating to develop narratives that reflect shared challenges. Audience discussions are frequently integrated into performances to promote dialogue and actionable insights.

Annual Activities
Inter-Act Theatre organizes regular public events, including an annual general meeting and themed productions aligned with current social issues. Recent programming has focused on mental health advocacy and community resilience, leveraging partnerships with local institutions such as Medicine Hat College[^3^]. The society also recruits new members annually, aiming to diversify perspectives within its creative process.

Legacy
As one of Alberta’s longest-running social theatre groups, the society has maintained a focus on accessibility and inclusivity, often targeting underrepresented voices in its storytelling. Its work aligns with global theatre-for-social-change movements, emphasizing art as a catalyst for dialogue and systemic reform.