Equiflash Archive

March 27th is World Theatre Day, a day to celebrate and promote the art of live performance and the work of artists, professionals, organizations, and audiences that bring it to life.

"World Theatre Day is here again, and, as it comes around every year, I am reminded of two things: how fortunate we are to have this incredible Canadian live arts community, and the constant and unending potential of live performance to enhance the greater communities in which we live.

Live theatre, in all its forms, acts as the great commons: the arena where any story can be told by anyone, for anyone. These stories encourage us to develop empathy and to be curious about the joy and pain of others. Oscar Wilde said that theatre was the “most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being”. It still feels true to me today.

Here in Canada, we enjoy the right to tell our stories boldly. Let us celebrate and treasure that right and let us continue to tell our stories together."
— Scott Bellis, Equity Council President

This year, World Theatre Day is also an opportunity to build awareness of the current realities of our industry and to promote the vital role of theatre in our society. The Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT) is placing an urgent call to action for Canadians to re-engage and support their local companies. Join the call by using #RallyForTheatre, #GoSeeAShow and #WorldTheatreDay on social media to share your stories and favourite theatre experiences.

Learn more about World Theatre Day and the #RallyForTheatre campaign, including a message from 2024 World Theatre Day Canadian Ambassador and Equity Member Jani Lauzon, at PACT.ca/WorldTheatreDay