Guest Post: Independent Theatre Review Update

Operating since the late Spring, the Independent Theatre Review Committee is made up of thirteen diverse members from across Canada. We have been tasked with examining the current state of small-scale and independent theatre nation-wide, from the perspectives of staff, members, and producers: everyone from those who assist with the production of new work (on stage or off) to those who help drive and create new work for themselves and others. The outcome of our efforts will be a set of recommended policy alternatives, supported by detailed research data, that aim to help Council align the Association's objectives and practices with the needs and priorities of members whose passions are ignited by small-scale and independent theatre work.

Before our committee was formed, regional CPAGs and interested members drove and participated in town hall forums and discussions in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, and Winnipeg; even earlier, significant effort on this issue was expended by the Indie Caucus, of which many members are part. Our committee's efforts, thus far, have largely been put towards collecting and sorting through minutes and reports generated by this existing body of work. We are stockpiling members' thoughts on what has been working, what hasn't been working, and what people would like to see in agreements covering performance creation below the scale of the Independent Theatre Agreement and Canadian Theatre Agreement. Many common concerns and suggestions have appeared in this material, and a diverse range of views have been captured.

However, we still need to know much more: the terrific discussions that have already taken place must be expanded to include the views of every interested member of the Association. The committee is currently in the planning stages for a national survey that will reach out to every member who would like to contribute. Details are still being worked out, but we are very interested in your candid, open responses to questions on everything from the scope of "small scale" work to the kinds of protections and benefits you value as a member of the Association.

Stay tuned in to e-drive and your regional CPAG early in the new year to hear how you can make your voice heard. And if you've got thoughts and suggestions that you're eager to share, feel free to contact us directly (and confidentially) at itrcommittee@caea.com. A list of committee members can also be found on our committee page on the Equity web site , and you may direct your thoughts to any of us at any time.

Kris Joseph

Chair, ITR Committee