Studio Theatre was once a beloved venue at the University of Alberta, known for its intimate stage and thought-provoking plays. The theatre, though modest in size, cultivated a unique atmosphere cherished by students and locals alike. Read more about its creation and history on edmonton-trend.
The Founding of Studio Theatre
Robert Orchard, the founder of Studio Theatre, initially had modest ambitions. His sole desire was to establish a small theatre within the university campus to present plays for students. In 1949, his dream became a reality. That autumn, Orchard opened Studio Theatre at the University of Alberta, repurposing two abandoned buildings near the campus into a modest 140-seat venue.
Initially, the theatre struggled to attract staff. Orchard enlisted many of his university colleagues to perform, with Elizabeth Haines becoming a key collaborator and lifelong supporter. With the collective efforts of the team, which included scriptwriters and stagehands, the theatre took its first steps toward success.
Early Growth and Achievements
The theatre’s initial seasons were well-received, drawing crowds not only from the university but also from the broader Edmonton community. Encouraged by this success, Orchard and his team committed to producing at least one play annually starting in the third season.
Funding was a significant challenge. With minimal government support, the theatre relied on the generosity of volunteers and donations from theatre enthusiasts. Despite financial constraints, Studio Theatre persevered. A successful summer production in 1951 involved local schoolchildren, and by 1952, the theatre began touring Alberta with a repertoire that included plays like Widger’s Way and The Tempest.
In 1953, the Studio Theatre troupe competed in the Dominion Drama Festival. That same year, Robert Orchard stepped down as artistic director, and two years later, Gordon Peacock took over, ushering in a new era of growth.
A Push for Expansion
By the mid-1950s, Studio Theatre’s performances were so popular that its limited seating could no longer accommodate the demand. Peacock sought financial assistance from the municipal government to expand the theatre. To showcase the theatre’s potential, the council members of Alberta were invited to a performance of Macbeth. Impressed by the production, the council allocated funds for a new theatre building.
Integration with the University
With the success of Studio Theatre, the University of Alberta launched a drama program, later expanded into a full faculty offering courses in directing, design, and playwriting. Graduates of the program were often recruited to work at Studio Theatre, fostering a close relationship between the university and the theatre.
In the 1960s, Studio Theatre became more student-oriented, producing one play annually with contributions from University of Alberta graduates. The theatre introduced a summer season in 1962, setting up an outdoor stage in the university’s courtyard with seating on the grassy lawn. These summer performances became a regular highlight from June to August.
In 1969, the relocation of the university’s education faculty to a new building provided Studio Theatre with expanded rehearsal and performance spaces, including a large reading room repurposed for practices.
The Closure of Studio Theatre
In 1970, Studio Theatre ceased operations as many of its actors transitioned to Edmonton’s Citadel Theatre. Though its doors closed, Studio Theatre left an indelible mark on Edmonton’s cultural and theatrical history, serving as a training ground for countless actors and enriching the university community for two decades.
