09/20/2026
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ash Knight, Artistic Executive Director of Pleiades Theatre.
Our relationship with Ash and Pleiades goes back to before Arabic Theatre Company was formally established, when members of our team were still creating theatre through the Canadian Arabic Orchestra. We first had the privilege of working with Ash on The King Is King, which he directed, and later partnered again with Pleiades to produce After Trojan Women.
Working closely with Ash, we witnessed his remarkable humility, his fierce support of artists, and his unwavering commitment to the art of theatre and to creating a more equitable space within it. He approached artists with generosity and respect, and brought both conviction and humanity to his work.
For a young artistic community finding its place in Canadian theatre, having someone like Ash believe in the work, make room for it, and stand beside the artists mattered deeply.
His passing is an immense loss to Pleiades, to the artists whose work he championed, and to the Canadian theatre community.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Ash’s family, friends, and the entire Pleiades Theatre team.
May his memory and the work he helped bring to life continue to resonate.
Arabic Theatre Company
