Education & Engagement

School Matinees

Theatre offers young people an essential space for personal growth, self-expression, and connection. It encourages youth to step beyond their comfort zones and helps them develop interpersonal skills, build empathy, and gain confidence. Theatre provides a safe environment where students can explore their identities, express their emotions, and navigate relationships, all while learning in a way that differs from traditional classroom settings. Theatre is an artistic expression where students feel seen, heard, and free to imagine new versions of themselves. Whether they are performing, designing, or immersing themselves in storytelling, theatre helps young people understand the world around them and their unique role within it. 

For more information about school visits to Canadian Stage, please contact Manuel Chaves at mchaves@canadianstage.com

Community Engagement

At Canadian Stage, we strive to build meaningful connections with our community through inclusive initiatives, educational outreach, and accessible performances that reflect and celebrate the diversity of our audiences.

Talkbacks

At Canadian Stage, we believe that theatre is more than just a performance; it's a conversation. Talkbacks are essential for building deeper audience engagement and nurturing community dialogue. They help audience members get closer to the artistic process, make space for reflection, and allow them to interact directly with performers and creative teams involved in the work.

Talkbacks are welcoming, informal conversations that offer a chance to stay a little longer, share your thoughts, and be part of the story beyond the curtain call. Whether you're a long-time theatre lover or seeing your first show, talkbacks invite you to be part of the creative journey, not just as a spectator, but as an active participant in the stories we tell. 

Free Childcare

In response to the challenges faced by caregivers, particularly concerning childcare costs and availability, Canadian Stage offers free childcare for selected performances. We provide Early Childhood Educator (ECE) certified childcare with artist-led activities in a dedicated space adjacent to the theatre. 

Live performances are a powerful source of connection and inspiration, but for many families, attending a show isn't possible without reliable, affordable childcare. By providing this service at no extra cost, we remove one of the biggest barriers standing between parents and the art they love.

Free childcare means more access for parents and guardians, a stress-free night out at the theatre, a welcoming environment for families of all kinds, and the chance to engage with bold, thought-provoking work without worrying about logistics. 

Let us care for the little ones so you can enjoy the show. 

ASL-Interpreted Performances

At Canadian Stage, we believe that everyone, including members of the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities, deserves access to the power of live performance. That’s why we offer ASL-interpreted performances: select shows where American Sign Language interpreters bring the production to life in a dynamic, visual language alongside the actors on stage. ASL interpretation breaks down language barriers and opens up the world of theatre. Great theatre communicates with everyone and should be felt by all. 

Backstage Tours

Every Tuesday, we provide exclusive access to the backstage area of High Park’s amphitheatre. Explore the history of the "Dream in High Park" production, learn about the evolution of the site, and get a behind-the-scenes look at the park. You will have the opportunity to experience the amphitheatre from the stage while hearing from production experts about the challenges and fascinating details surrounding this beloved Toronto tradition. 

For more information, please contact Manuel Chaves at mchaves@canadianstage.com