The Edmonton-based Catalyst Theatre was founded in 1977 by University of Alberta professor David Barnet. The primary mission of this theatrical organization was to use the medium of theatre as a tool for community education and as a catalyst for social change. Learn more about its beginnings and evolution on edmonton-trend.
Early Beginnings
Initially, Catalyst Theatre created commissioned educational plays addressing societal issues such as the effects of alcoholism and drug abuse. Alongside these educational performances, the team also produced original theatrical works.
Operating out of rented spaces, the theatre toured extensively throughout Alberta. Two years after its founding, Barnet appointed Ian Selman as the artistic director, with Ruth Smillie assuming the role in 1985.
Most early productions were created collaboratively. By 1996, Catalyst committed to producing uniquely Canadian plays exploring new theatrical techniques and showcasing them both locally and internationally.
Catalyst’s directors emphasized theatre’s role in highlighting pressing issues and, at times, providing solutions. Their productions aimed to captivate audiences, compelling them to reflect and engage.
A Period of Expansion and Success
In 1995, Catalyst created the acclaimed monologue Elephant Wake, which premiered in 1996. This work focused on the erosion of French culture, with its central character, Jean Claude, portrayed as the last member of a once-thriving Catholic family. The monologue was performed at the Edinburgh Festival in 1997 and the Brighton Festival the following year, earning the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe First Award.
The organization’s founder, artistic director, and collaborators decided to expand their team, working with both established and emerging talent. This laid the foundation for an era of innovative and impactful productions.
During the 1996–1997 season, Catalyst developed the Abundance Trilogy, a series exploring Alberta’s hidden narratives.
In 1999, the theatre premiered The House of Pootsie Plunket, inspired by Greek mythology, which also traveled to the Edinburgh Festival and won the Scotsman’s Fringe First Award.
In the early 2000s, Catalyst created The Blue Orphan, which debuted at the Edmonton Fringe Festival before gaining recognition in major theatres across Alberta.
Iconic Productions and New Directions
In 2011, Catalyst premiered Hunchback at the Citadel Theatre. This production drew inspiration from Victor Hugo’s novel, weaving together its characters and themes into a powerful stage performance.
In 2013, the theatre introduced The Soul Collector, a mythic tale of despair. The production captivated audiences with its compelling storyline and stellar performances.
In addition to its theatrical creations, Catalyst launched the “creator in residence” program, offering mentorship and rehearsal space to emerging actors over three months. This initiative was made possible after a significant renovation transformed an old warehouse into a 130-seat theatre with an adjacent C103 rehearsal and performance space.
In 2014, Catalyst relocated to the Maclab Theatre and became a resident company there.
In 2019, collaboration with other theatre organizations led to the production of The Invisible – Agents of Ungentlemanly Warfare, staged at Vertigo Theatre. This musical depicted covert sabotage operations against Nazi forces in France, blending historical intrigue with dramatic flair.
