Community Theatres Across Vancouver Island
Whether you want to be entertained by taking in a show or are considering becoming involved in a production, there are a number of local theatre groups on Vancouver Island.
Participating in theatre can enhance personal growth, social skills and overall well-being. You’ll learn the true value of teamwork, practice self-expression and give back to your community. It’s also a great way to network with people who have similar interests.
If the spotlight isn’t the place for you, there are plenty of ways to participate in local theatre that don’t require you to take the stage. Theatre groups need more than just actors and an audience to put on a successful show. They need stage managers, people to handle lighting and music, stagehands and people to run the box office. Depending on the theatre, jobs can also include choreographers, costume designers, set designers, ushers and a marketing team to help with promotion. Don’t be afraid to ask what your local theatre needs and how your skill set can fill a void.
Ready to learn about some incredible theatres on Vancouver Island? Here are a few that have been putting on shows and engaging their communities for years.
Find one near you and pull up a seat, or consider adding your name to the list of people that make sure the show will go on!
1. Victoria on Stage (VOS)
This musical theatre society is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to bringing high-quality live musical theatre to Victoria. For over 76 years, locals have enjoyed performing and watching the many forms of talent cross their stage.
2. Theatre SKAM
Active since 1995, Theatre SKAM brings innovative theatre to Victoria through their shows and festivals. They also offer a popular performing arts school to help kids and youth become involved in local theatre.
3. Belfry Theatre
The Belfry Theatre has been producing plays since 1976 and has grown to be one of the most popular local theatres in Victoria—often selling out their shows quickly! The Belfry not only hosts local plays, they also welcome innovative and alternative work from across Canada. A few of the Belfry’s 250 volunteers have been volunteering since its inception!
4. Langham Court Theatre
For over 90 years, the Langham Court Theatre has been producing engaging and high-quality theatre in Victoria. They offer six productions a year that are a mix of traditional and modern works. They have youth volunteer positions available as well as a variety of workshops.
5. Chemainus Theatre Festival
With its 30th season starting this year, the Chemainus Theatre Festival puts on great productions that often draw people from all over the island! They are known for their incredible “dinner and theatre” offerings.
6. Theatre One
Theatre One has been entertaining and educating the city of Nanaimo for over 40 years by developing and producing Canadian plays. With programs for kids as well as adults, they welcome volunteers and rely on your support.
7. Courtenay Little Theatre
The Courtenay Little Theatre loves to produce local plays and even asks for input and scripts from the community. For over 60 years, they have been an active member of the local theatre scene and give back to the community in many ways.
8. Tidemark Theatre
The Tidemark Theatre is that recognizable bright pink building located in downtown Campbell River. Operating as a community theatre since 1987, the Tidemark showcases local performing groups, as well as hosts travelling productions from across Canada.
9. River City Players
Since 1960, the River City Players Society has been putting on accessible and intimate community theatre in Cambell River. They offer workshops and shadowing for anyone who is interested in being involved in the productions.
10. Portal Players Dramatic Society
The Portal Players Dramatic Society are the main users of the Capital Theatre in Port Alberni and operate an annual season of three to four productions. They also offer various workshops and even some improv nights.
There you have it! No more waiting in the wings—check out one of our 10 community theatres where you can take in a show, take the stage or help make the magic happen behind the scenes.
