Obsidian Theatre Company is Canada’s leading culturally-specific independent theatre, with a primary focus on producing Black playwrights from all over the world, and developing Black voices and theatre makers. Based in Toronto, Obsidian is dedicated to putting established and emerging Black voices front and centre on Canadian stages, and in Canada’s arts & culture scene.

Producing plays, developing playwrights and training emerging theatre professionals, they support artists through mentorship, apprenticeship and promotion. As a result of Obsidian’s award-winning work, creative partnerships, and encouragement of other theatre companies to re-evaluate their involvement and engagement with artists of colour, the Canadian performing arts scene has experienced a surge in the work of Black artists across the country.

(Photo credits: Obsidian Theatre.)

What we like about this theatre company

We love Obsidian’s passion and dedication to promoting Black voices, in their own work; in partnership with other theatre companies; and in the opportunities for consideration, action and change that they foster. Canada is a rich, culturally diverse country – and this needs to be reflected on our stages, in the stories we see and who gets to tell them.

Supporting both acclaimed and emerging Black playwrights, and training the next generation of theatre makers, Obsidian is a champion for Black theatre artists, amplifying the history, lived experiences and artistry of Black storytelling in all its variations. (Written by C.M.)

Accessibility: Please refer to the performance venue.

Ideas for where you can go from here:

• Visit Obsidian Theatre Company.
• Check out Obsidian’s current season and, if you’re able to do so, book a ticket to see a show.
• Take a look at what’s on offer at your local theatre company and see if their season includes plays written by Black playwrights, or if any are directed by or featuring Black theatre artists – and go see that production.
• Visit your local library or visit the Canadian Play Outlet and look for plays written by Black playwrights.

We love theatre companies because they inspire you to get out and experience live theatre. Experiencing live theatre allows you to immerse yourself in the characters and story in a deeper, more meaningful way. Immersing yourself in the characters and story in a deeper, more meaningful way is part of the flourishing offline life Young W helps you discover: by exploring PERFORMANCE and the other 8 pillars of Arts & Letters, including those you may be hesitant to try.

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