Toronto Theatres are diversifying their casts, but what about their au

Toronto's adoption of Minstrel

Blackface was first brought to Toronto in 1841 when travelling American circuses visited the city. Archival documents show that blackface spread to areas outside traditional theatre such as athletic clubs, high schools, public parks, private businesses, and churches. Image Credits: City of Toronto Archives

The McCormick minstrels on stage for the first of two winter performances at the McCormick Recreation Centre in Toronto on December 28, 1916.

Early activism in canada

In 1914, Charles Daniels bought a ticket for King Lear. He was denied his seat because the staff at the Sherman Grand Theatre thought a Black patron's presence would make white customers uncomfortable.Daniels took this to court and won his case. Photo Credit: Glexbox Archives

Sherman Grand Theatre in calgary circa 1914

Black Theatre in toronto

Vera Cudjoe founded Toronto's first Black theatre company, Black Theatre Canada, in 1973. Jeff Henry, a close friend of Cudjoe's, opened the doors of Theatre Fountainhead the following year. Both theatres produced their final shows in 1986 due to financial strain. More than a decade later, Philip Atkin started Obsidian theatre which remains Toronto's only Black theatre company. Photo Credits: Obsidian Theatre & Dahlia Katz

Caroline, or change produced by obsidian theatre & a Musical stage company

The first black out night

On September 18, 2022, Playwright Jeremy O. Harris made history as he had an all Black-identifying audience for his play Slave Play at Golden Theatre on Broadway. Since this performance, several theatres around the world have adopted Black Out nights. Photo Credits: Emilio Madrid-Kuser

Jeremy o. Harris, the cast of slave play, and the audience at a black out performance of slave play

Theatre beyond walls

Theatre Passe Muraille prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility. They offer pay-what-you-can tickets and Relaxed Environment performances for each production. They also hold Black Out nights for applicable plays. Photo Credit: Theatre Passe Muraille & Now Playing Toronto

Theatre passe Muraille in toronto