Mandate
Western Gold Theatre is one of only two professional theatre companies in Canada solely devoted to centring the voices and stories of seniors and Elders (55+) across cultures and communities. We have the express mandate of addressing and mitigating ageism by presenting both theatre classics and newly commissioned Canadian works that reflect the rich experience of this rapidly growing demographic. The one thing all productions have in common, and which guides our artistic choices, is the all-important theme of how all of us embrace and/or confront our lives and the passage of time.
As part of this mandate, Western Gold also mentors emerging professional artists of all ages, experiences, and communities as they share the boards with us. This intergenerational and intercultural sharing is integral to what we do.
Objectives
To create a range of opportunities for senior artists to continue their life-long work.
To mentor emerging artists in all aspects of the performing arts.
To engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds in theatrical performances by senior artists.
To encourage conversation amongst the Canadian public on the impact and joys of aging.
HISTORY
Western Gold has been helmed for the majority of its time by a number of Canada’s leading theatre artists including: Founder Joy Coghill, Artistic Directors Pamela Hawthorne, Colleen Winton, Anna Hagan, and General Manager Glenn MacDonald—trailblazers all. Tanja Dixon-Warren was appointed Artistic Director in 2019.
In the early days, Western Gold toured senior’s centres. Our partnership in 2010 with PAL Studio Theatre allowed us to take up residence in Coal Harbours’ intimate theatre-in-the-sky, build on Joy’s inaugural production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (1995), and successfully evolve our programming to include:
MAINSTAGE: At least one production of an established and/or commissioned work each year, showcasing established theatre practitioners in collaboration with emerging artists.
ON OUR FEET! (OOF!) STAGED READING SERIES: Launched in 2012, this highly popular series presents a minimum of two plays per year; each with all the hallmarks of a full production (blocking, sets, costumes, sound etc.). This same year, we also initiated our Mentorship Program, and Anna coined our tagline Creativity has no Expiry Date!™
VIRTUAL GOLD – LOOK! LISTEN! LEARN!: Originally a COVID19 pivot in 2020, this program has thrived. Led by guest curators, it offers on-line presentations, creative workshops, and cultural conversations. Call it armchair theatre, if you will!
HAVE A SENIOR MOMENT FESTIVAL (EST. 2022): A curated, multi-discipline series celebrating the performing arts for old folx and/or by old folx!
DEVELOPMENT: Western Gold offers dramaturgical support and multiple workshops of new plays, leading up to full production. We have added eight new plays to the Canadian Canon.
INTERGENERATIONAL MENTORSHIP: Western Gold provides a hands-on, immersive, apprenticeship-style mentorship program (est. 2012) where we offer leadership roles to up-and-coming artists and arts professionals. We learn from each other.
CREATIVE ACCESSIBILITY PROGRAM (est. 2021): Instead of negating normal experiences of the life process, we examine barriers, find solutions, and integrate them into our creative practice.
Now in its third decade, Western Gold is a force to be reckoned with! Our focus on everything golden: text-based classics; newly commissioned works by senior artists; intergenerational knowledge sharing; and on-going professional development makes us unique in the region, and our reputation for excellence has earned the respect of audience, critics, and colleagues.
For full programming history, visit our Vintage Western Gold page.
CREATIVE ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT
Instead of hiding the normal experiences of the life process, we aim to shine a light on them and make them integral to creation, design, rehearsal, and performance processes.
It is no secret that challenges come with aging, including physical mobility, stamina, memory loss, cultural displacement and the inherent emotional barriers that result. We believe all older adults can and should participate in the arts—and not just any arts, but high-quality, innovative, and contemporary arts that engage them fully and reflect the lives they lead.
Thus, as part of every project we embark upon, we examine these barriers and challenges and find opportunities and solutions therein.
The questions we ask are:
- What are the barriers?
- How do we fully support senior artists on stage in rehearsal?
- Are there commonly used accessibility tools we can apply to theatrical creation?
- How do we bring practices such as viewpoints, Laban (a method and language for describing, visualizing, interpreting, and documenting human movement), or biomechanics to senior artists?
- What new technologies and digital media can be used to support our artists and audiences?
- How can we ensure cultural comfort?
- How can we aesthetically illuminate the experience of seniors’ day-to-day living?
For the Audience: This means ensuring our venue is fully accessible and offering ASL and Vocal Eye performances for each production as well as audio assist. It means we acknowledge, support, and advocate for Cultural Ceremony and Protocols.
For the Artist: This means actors may be seen using an earpiece / having a prompter to the side of the stage / integrating a teleprompter into the set design / incorporating the script as a prop (i.e. a diary, a memoir, a journal) / the set being wheelchair accessible / adjusting the lighting / using sound cues to facilitate memory / increasing visual markers; or only rehearsing two hours per day for six weeks, instead of seven hours a day for two weeks. It means we acknowledge, support, and advocate for cultural safety and protocols. It varies and adapts to each artist and each production.
This is what you will see on our stage: An artistic form suited to senior artists; one which also reflects the experience of our audience. It embraces adaptability and, at heart, celebrates the notion that life experience fully informs artistic practice.
“One hindrance to society’s fuller understanding of aging is that people rarely understand it until they reach old age themselves . . . . While individuals often encounter stereotypes associated with race and gender and are thus more likely to think critically about them, many people accept age stereotypes without question.”
~ William Little, Introduction to Sociology – 2nd Canadian Edition
OUR TEAM
Tanja Dixon-Warren
Artistic Director
[email protected]
Glenn Macdonald
General & Production Manager
[email protected]
Stephanie Hargreaves
Casting
Joy-Anna Leggasee
Head Hog of Fundraising!
Seamus Fera
Literary Manager
[email protected]
Kate Lancaster
Creative Marketing Manager
Dr. Julia Henderson
Creative Accessibilities Facilitator
Associate Artists
- Bernard Cuffling
- Jane Heyman
- Terence Kelly
- Annabel Kershaw
- Colleen Winton
- John Webber
- Michael Fera
Board Of Directors
Donnie MacDonald
President
Bonnie MacKenzie
Vice President
Louise DeVita
Treasurer
Diana Sandberg
Secretary
Anna Hagan
Director
Kathryn Aberle
Director
Alen Dominguez
Director
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES PREVENTION PLAN (CDPP)
In accordance with the latest BC government guidelines on indoor events, as of April, 2022, Western Gold Theatre patrons will not be required to present proof of vaccination.
To ensure the safety of all, we have a Communicable Diseases Plan in place (which adapts as needed).
Some principal points:
- Please stay home if you are ill.
- Masks are highly recommended at the PAL Studio Theatre and lobbies and serve as a mutual benefit for all.
- You are encouraged to sanitize your hands upon entry.
Western Gold Theatre safety protocols will continue to be revised as PHO guidance and orders are released. Be sure to check back here for updates.
PRIVACY POLICY
Western Gold Theatre is committed to respecting the personal information of all Western Gold Theatre patrons. In order to protect the privacy of our supporters and patrons, Western Gold Theatre has the following policies:
Collection of Information:
1) Western Gold Theatre collects personal information (such as addresses or ticket history) only from ticket buyers, donors, and others who have actively shown an interest in the Company.
2) Individuals will be informed about the purposes for which this information will be used when a ticket is purchased.
Storage of Information:
1) Personal information is stored in our data base and in hard copy files. Only authorized Western Gold Theatre personnel have access to this information.
2) Visa and Master Card numbers are not retained after point of purchase.
3) Personal information that is no longer required to fulfill the stated purpose will be destroyed or made anonymous.
Use of Information:
Western Gold Theatre uses personal information to better serve our patrons and to expand our community. Primarily this includes:
1) mailings (by post or electronic) and phone calls to provide information about tickets and donations.
2) mailings (by post or electronic) to issue tax receipts.
3) mailings (by post or electronic) or phone calls to invite supporters to special events.
4) phone calls to sell subscriptions, tickets, and to solicit donations.
Western Gold Theatre is committed to using personal information in a respectful and useful way. Patrons and supporters will receive information that we believe will be in their interest. Western Gold Theatre will also commit itself to making sure patrons and donors do not receive more than a reasonable number of letters or phone calls.
If an individual requests that their personal information not be used for one of these purposes as noted above, or for any other purpose, that request will be honoured. The individual’s account will be updated accordingly.
Disclosure of Information:
Western Gold Theatre never discloses the personal information of subscribers, single ticket buyers, or donors to any third party.
Individual Access, Questions & Requests:
If you have a question about the contents of your file or a request about the use of disclosure of your personal information, please contact Western Gold Theatre at 604-363-5734 or via email to either Tanja Dixon-Warren at [email protected] or Glenn MacDonald at [email protected]
CODE OF CONDUCT
Theatre is an art form. The work can and should be challenging, experimental, exploratory, and bold. Artistic freedom of expression is essential. For these things to happen, though, the creative space must be a safe space.
Purpose
This Code is intended to promote a harmonious and respectful working environment for all employees, board members, members, patrons, and volunteers. It aims to set the highest standards of service integrity, to minimize discord and to promote the resolution of conflicts among or between employees, volunteers, and the public.
Inclusivity: We welcome and support people of all backgrounds and identities.
Scope
The Western Gold Theatre Code of Conduct applies to all staff, contractors, board members, and volunteers (referred to as
“stakeholders”). This Code of Conduct sets minimum expectations and shapes the behaviour and culture of Western Gold Theatre.
Code of Conduct Policy Expectations
Compliance with the Law
All stakeholders must comply with all acts and regulations, including, but not limited to: environmental; WorkSafe BC; Personal Privacy and Protection Act of BC; Serving It Right; and the BC Employment Act.
Harassment and Discrimination
Bullying and harassment directly or indirectly related to personal characteristics protected under human rights legislation (e.g. age, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, place of origin, etc.) is unlawful and discriminatory conduct contrary to human rights legislation.
Respect and Conduct
All stakeholders shall:
- Be aware that their conduct and activities reflect on Western Gold Theatre.
- Act with integrity, honesty and transparency.
- Promptly take steps to raise and act on concerns about matters that may negatively impact Western Gold Theatre or other stakeholders.
Take all reasonable steps to prevent and respond to all forms of discriminatory or disrespectful behaviour, harassment, bullying, victimization, violence and exploitation, sexual misconduct, neglect and abuse of persons who are stakeholders of Western Gold Theatre.
Bullying and harassment includes any inappropriate action by any person, whether verbal or physical, on a single or repeated basis, which the harasser knows or reasonably ought to know would cause another person to be humiliated, intimidated, degraded, or insulted. Reasonable action taken by an employer or supervisor relating to the management and direction of workers or the workplace is not bullying and harassment.
If anyone believes that they have been bullied or harassed and feel comfortable discussing the unwelcome behaviour with the offending party, they are encouraged to do so personally, or in writing, clearly stating the unwelcome behaviour/action and requesting that it stop immediately. If they are not comfortable doing this, or if a reasonable resolution does not result, they should report the matter as outlined below.
Timely reporting is essential to effective investigation and mitigating escalation.
Bullying, harassment, and discrimination may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Conflict of Interest
Any stakeholder who thinks that they may have a Conflict of Interest must declare that potential conflict to the Board.
Conflict of Interest can be actual, potential, or perceived.
Definition: Conflict of Interest: A situation in which a person is in a position to derive personal benefit from actions or decisions made in their official capacity.
Protection of Property
All stakeholders shall treat the company’s property, whether material or intangible, with respect and care. Stakeholders shall not misuse equipment or property frivolously. This includes trademarks, copyright and other property (information and reports, etc.). Stakeholders shall protect company assets and material property from damage and vandalism, whenever possible.
Stakeholders are expected to be ethical and responsible when dealing with Western Gold Theatre finances, products, partnerships and public image.
Reporting of Complaint
Anyone may raise a formal complaint about a potential breach of the Western Gold Theatre Code of Conduct to either the General and Production Manager, Artistic Director, or to the Vice President of the Board of Directors. Timely reporting is essential. All complaints will be considered confidential and all attempts will be made to address the situation in a professional and timely manner.
Investigating Complaints
All reported complaints will be investigated in a fair, impartial and timely manner. WGT will promptly undertake an investigation that is as thorough as necessary to suit the circumstances.
Investigations will be focused on finding facts and evidence, including interviews of the complainant, respondent, and any witnesses or other individuals who may have relevant information. The investigator will also review any relevant documents and evidence. Stakeholders are expected to cooperate with investigators and provide full and truthful responses to questions.
Following the investigation, the complainant and respondent will be advised of the investigation findings. Appropriate corrective or preventative actions, if any, will be considered and implemented within a reasonable timeframe, including a follow-up discussion with the complainant and/or respondent to confirm that no further issues remain. WGT will keep a written record of investigations, including the findings, in accordance with and subject to applicable privacy legislation.
Contact Information:
General and Production Manager – Glenn MacDonald; [email protected]; 778-686-4531
Artistic Director – Tanja Dixon-Warren; [email protected]; Cell 778-929-9253; Home 604 253-8232
WGT Board Vice-President – Bonnie MacKenzie; [email protected]; 604 681-1821
Creativity has no expiry date! ™
Contact Us
Phone: 604-363-5734
Email: [email protected]
Mailing Address:
PO Box 93513,
Vancouver RPO Nelson Park, BC V6E 4L7
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Supported By
The McGrane-Pearson Endowment Fund,
held at Vancouver Foundation
Stewart Fund,
held at Vancouver Foundation
McLean Foundation
Community Partners
We gratefully acknowledge that we are on the traditional and unceded territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam),Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) First Nations. We deeply thank them for so generously allowing us to live, work, and play on their beautiful lands.
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