Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company facts for kids
| Formation | 1962 |
|---|---|
| Type | Theatre group |
| Location | |
|
Artistic director(s)
|
Max Reimer |
| Website | vancouverplayhouse.com |
The Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company, often called "The Playhouse," was a theatre group in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It started putting on plays in 1962. Their very first show was The Hostage by Brendan Behan, which opened on October 2, 1963.
The company performed at the Vancouver Playhouse. This is a public theatre located in downtown Vancouver. Other groups like the Vancouver Recital Society also use this theatre. Sadly, the company announced on March 10, 2012, that it would close down. This was because they were having money problems.
What the Company Did
When it closed, The Playhouse had a "Mainstage" season. This meant they put on five plays from October to May. They also had smaller shows and play readings in other places. Sometimes, they even had special shows just for young audiences.
Most plays ran for about three to four weeks. There were often special daytime shows for students, seniors, and people who needed help. Before some shows, there were "Salon Saturdays" with guest speakers. After other shows, there were "talkbacks" where people could discuss the play.
The Playhouse also had programs for education and reaching out to the community. They often worked with the Studio 58 theatre program. This helped students and graduates get experience in theatre.
How the Company Was Funded
One big way The Playhouse raised money was through the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival. This event started small in 1979.
In 2011, the Vancouver City Council helped the company with money. This support was about $1 million. Information about this help became public after a leak from city hall. The city then shared the documents online. Max Reimer, the artistic director, explained why the city's help was needed on the Playhouse's website.
Artistic Directors
Many important Canadian directors led The Playhouse over the years. These included Christopher Newton, Joy Coghill, and Walter Learning. Max Reimer was the Artistic Managing Director when the company closed. He joined The Playhouse in July 2008.
Here are the people who served as Artistic Director:
- Max Reimer (2008–2012)
- Glynis Leyshon (1997-2008)
- Susan Cox (1993-1997)
- Larry Lillo (1988-1992)
- Guy Sprung (1987-1988)
- Walter Learning (1982-1987)
- Roger Hodgman (1979-1981)
- Christopher Newton (1973-1979)
- Paxton Whitehead (1971-1973)
- David Gardner (1969-1971)
- Joy Coghill (1967-1969)
- Malcolm Black (1964-1967)
- Michael Johnston (1963-1964)
Past Productions
For a full list of plays, see Vancouver Playhouse production history.
