After an inspiring period of growth with Postmarginal 2.0 in May 2024, the Edmonton Collective is thrilled to unveil its next steps. This phase focuses on workshops designed to transform Edmonton’s theatre-arts community through innovative practices. These sessions explore key themes: multilingual dramaturgy, ethical casting, and hybrid performance works. Each is tailored to inspire equitable and dynamic theatre practices.
Upcoming Workshops: A Closer Look
Date: March 1, 2025
Focus: Hybrid Artistic Practices
This cabaret, hosted by Chris Dodd and Josh Languedoc, will spotlight six performer duos from Edmonton. They will present their work to artistic directors from the city’s leading theatre companies. The event aims to activate creative collaboration within the Postmarginal Edmonton community. With a focus on hybrid artistry, the cabaret promises surprising and innovative performances. Held at Mile Zero Dance in their Connections//Collisions Cabaret, it will feature ASL interpretation. Applications opened in October, with finalists to be announced soon.
Workshop 2: Casting Across Differences
Question: How can we approach cross-cultural casting ethically?
This two-week workshop, led by Mũkonzi Mũsyoki and Peter Farbridge, explores the challenges of ethical casting in cross-cultural contexts. Using John Ruganda’s Shreds of Tenderness, an ensemble reflective of Edmonton’s diversity will navigate complex cultural storytelling. Supported by a consultant from the Ugandan community, the process concludes with a public presentation and discussion. Key themes include permission, discomfort, and cultural integrity. The workshop will also develop the Ethical Tapestry, a tool for addressing cross-cultural casting dilemmas thoughtfully.
Workshop 3: Creating Multilingual Dramaturgy
Challenge: How can we collaborate without relying on translation?
This groundbreaking lab, led by Art Babayants with Tatiana Duque, fosters the creation of original performance pieces blending multiple languages or communication modes. Participants craft stories that resonate across linguistic boundaries, celebrating diversity without translation. The final presentation invites feedback from multilingual audiences to refine the storytelling approach. This lab pushes the boundaries of multilingual theatre, offering new ways to connect across cultures and languages.
A Call to Action
These workshops aren’t just events—they’re opportunities to challenge assumptions and inspire dialogue. Together, we can shape a theatre culture that actively embraces inclusivity and reflects the full spectrum of human experience.
Stay tuned for updates on workshop dates and participation opportunities. Let’s work together to transform Edmonton’s theatre landscape!
