Located in Toronto, Ontario, the Centre for Indigenous Theatre (CIT) is the only school of its kind in Canada. We create training and professional development opportunities for emerging and established Indigenous theatre artists comparable to other post-secondary performing arts programs. What makes CIT unique is our intimate, supportive, student-focused training rooted in Indigenous cultures and
traditions. Bringing together contemporary theatre training and traditional cultural practices, we have successfully supported and enriched the voices of our students through self-exploration, song, story and performance. Our Alumni maintain high rates of employment as performers, writers, directors, presenters and trainers. CIT’s training extends beyond the classroom to the actual stage, with performance and outreach activities designed to provide opportunities for practical application of the technical training. The Centre for Indigenous Theatre’s Advantage
-Training that reflects the cultures, traditions and experiences of Indigenous peoples
-Training in a professional environment ensuring students are career-ready once they graduate
-Instructors are Industry professionals
-Small class size for enhanced one-on-one training
-Mentorship opportunities leading to production skills including: lighting/sound/set & costume design as well as stage management
The Full-Time 4 Year Program runs from September to May in Toronto, at the Artscape Youngplace Building at 180 Shaw Street. Classes take place in our new bright and accessible studio spaces located on the 2nd floor. An integral part of the Full-Time Program includes learning from Indigenous Knowledge Keepers through cultural intensives and workshops including Play Development, Play Writing, Story Weaving and Story Creation. Students spend the first month in team building workshops before moving to regular training. Throughout regular training, students are given various performance opportunities culminating in a final year-end “Full Staged Production.”
Tuition for the Full-Time Program is $3,500 (CAD) per year and includes production costs and special events. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from Toronto and living expenses while attending the program. The Centre for Indigenous Theatre is prepared to help students secure the necessary funding to attend our programs. We encourage you to check with your band first to see if they are able to assist you. Many bands and First Nations have funded and continue to support their members to attend our programs. In the case you require outside support we can provide you with a list of other funding resources, as well as assist you in the application process for various opportunities. For help or any inquires don’t hesitate to call 416-506-9436 or email [email protected]