Inclusivity in contemporary theatre is essential for truly open and accessible art for everyone. The Citadel Theatre in Edmonton has actively implemented inclusive practices for many years to make its productions comfortable for people with diverse needs, including audience members with disabilities, parents with children, and representatives of various ethnic groups. In this article on edmonton-trend, using The Citadel Theatre as an example, we’ll explain how modern theatres are transforming into spaces of equal opportunity.
About the Theatre
The Citadel Theatre is a true theatrical giant that has grown in Edmonton. It hosts incredible performances for city residents that are worthy of any major stage in the world. For both newcomers and seasoned theatre-goers, The Citadel offers sophisticated and bold productions that momentarily transport audiences to worlds beyond human imagination.
It’s one of the largest non-profit theatres in North America, attracting audiences from across Western Canada. The theatre’s main goal is to engage young people in theatrical life. It offers many educational programs for those who wish to delve into theatrical arts.
Each season, over 250,000 people attend the theatre, and thousands more follow the theatre on social media.
How the Theatre Adapts to Modernity
The Citadel Theatre is located in a highly multicultural city, so it strives to ensure that the stories it tells, as well as the composition of its artists and staff, reflect the diversity of Edmonton and the province. The theatre also commits to being accountable and ensuring transparency in its operations.
The theatre is creating an inter-sectional system to combat racism and discrimination through education, consultation, analysis, and the involvement of a special Committee on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility. According to this committee’s ideas, equality is ensured for all people, especially those who have suffered from marginalization. Creating equal opportunities is a continuous process aimed at removing barriers.
The theatre is proud to be part of the city’s theatre community, and it aims to collaborate with colleagues from other institutions to share knowledge and ensure effective changes within The Citadel.
Key Inclusive Principles of the Theatre
The Citadel Theatre adheres to certain inclusive principles in its work. The first principle is removing barriers. The theatre strives to make all programs and prices as accessible as possible for everyone, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. This is achieved through continuous internal reflection, feedback analysis, and regular audits.
The second principle is lasting impact. The theatre is committed to a long-term process of equity, ensuring sustainable development. The Citadel Theatre is very responsible with its resources. The sustainable development of the theatre also encompasses artistic integrity, community engagement, financial stability, audience retention, and environmental responsibility.
The third principle is equitable decisions. The theatre always considers the complex aspects of identities and ensures fairness in decision-making. Hiring and community engagement decisions prioritize equal access and representation for all groups in society.
The fourth principle is growing together. This principle suggests that the theatre is a platform for advocating for equality in the arts. By engaging diverse voices, the theatre improves its practices and develops.
The theatre implements these principles through continuous learning, resource sharing, and by drawing on the experiences of Indigenous peoples. The Citadel is an example of how modern artistic institutions can change in response to societal shifts. Such initiatives inspire the creation of a more open and diverse cultural environment where every voice matters.
