A theatre visit is a delightful event cherished by Torontonians. With numerous theatres offering a variety of performances, Toronto has a vibrant cultural scene. Today, let’s explore the history and development of Tarragon Theatre, regarded as one of the primary hubs of contemporary drama in Canada. Read more on toronto-trend.
The Beginning
Tarragon Theatre was founded in 1970 by Bill and Jane Glassco. Bill served as the theatre’s artistic director for over a decade. The theatre is housed in a building originally used for light industrial purposes. After undergoing renovations costing $9,000, the space was transformed into a theatre.
In 1987, the building was purchased outright for Tarragon Theatre, with renovations creating two performance spaces: the Mainspace, seating 205 people, and The Extra Space, accommodating 113 people.
Development of the Theatre
Over the years, Tarragon Theatre has seen multiple artistic directors. In 1982, Bill Glassco was succeeded by Urjo Kareda, who led the theatre until 2001. In 2002, Richard Rose took over as artistic director, holding the position until his retirement in 2021, when Mike Payette stepped in. In 2024, Lisa Li became the theatre’s executive director.
Beyond leadership changes, Tarragon Theatre has made a name for itself by developing and premiering new works. The theatre has debuted over 170 plays by prominent playwrights.
At one point, Tarragon Theatre championed the works of Canadian playwrights, including David French, Michel Tremblay, Judith Thompson, Jason Sherman, George F. Walker, Morris Panych, Carole Fréchette, Michael Healey, Daniel MacIvor, Hannah Moscovitch, and Wajdi Mouawad.
The theatre has received numerous accolades, including the Governor General’s Awards, Dora Mavor Moore Awards, and the Premier’s Award for Excellence in the Arts, recognizing its contributions to theatre in Ontario and Canada.
Tarragon Theatre also hosts theatre festivals and artistic events, offering platforms for new plays, workshops for emerging playwrights and actors, and genre-focused artistic programs. Notable festivals include:
- Playwrights Unit. Established in 1982 under Urjo Kareda’s leadership as artistic director, this festival supports Canadian playwrights. It provides a space for authors to meet, present their works, discuss them with peers, and receive feedback. Over the years, 170 new plays have premiered at Playwrights Unit, with some becoming part of Tarragon Theatre’s repertoire.
- Spring Arts Fair. Launched in the 1990s, this festival serves as a platform for new theatrical works and projects, aiming to advance Canadian drama. It’s unique in presenting early versions of plays, which can be revised and later staged at Tarragon Theatre.
Tarragon Theatre is a cornerstone of Toronto’s cultural landscape, fostering the development of Canadian drama and emerging playwrights.
We hope this article has provided valuable insight into Toronto’s rich theatrical history and one of its most celebrated institutions.
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