Bernie Hughes
Northern News Services

NNSL (Jun 04/99) - If the strength of a community can be seen through the ways in which its citizenry devote its after-work time and energy, then Yellowknife is having a passionate affair with theatre.

Theatre has become a strong community dynamic because of the interplay and interdependence of four elements coming together at this point in time: one, a strong, local talent base; two, exceptional community interest and participation; three, the existence of a professional facility, NACC; and four, the drive of a small, dedicated nucleus of directors and creative people.

Because theatre is linked to our collective emotions and sensitivities, it contributes to the common good of Yellowknife in a much different and more intrinsic manner than traditional recreational and sporting activities.

There is probably no other place in Canada with a similar population that even remotely compares to the volume and quality of theatre being staged in this microcosm we call Yellowknife, as a look to the past two proves.

There were no less than seven active theatre companies in this town, in addition to a number of independents. Over 25 productions have been staged in less than two years.

The recent spring musical, Fiddler on the Roof, had up to 125 actors and support crew, including orchestra and technical help. More than 2,100 residents attended the play.

Literally thousands of residents attend theatre events in Yk each calendar year. Over 300 people are actively involved on an annual basis in the production of theatre by writing, producing, directing, performing or by providing technical services. This makes the theatre community one of the larger "recreational" groups in Yellowknife.

The 1998 production of Steel Magnolias was as good as one will see -- anywhere -- (and that comment comes from seasoned theatre goers). Whitehorse, with its impressive multi-purpose performing arts facility, has nowhere near the volume and activity as Yellowknife. Why is this happening?

Local talent is experienced, versatile and competent. Many of the local actors have had professional training and they bring that expertise with them when they arrive in town. Still others have developed their skills locally. There is a tradition among Yellowknife actors and directors to strive for excellence. Productions like Guys and Dolls exemplify this characteristic.

Many productions have open auditions, creating a sense of opportunity, fairness and access among local actors to good roles. In addition to strong acting, the local talent pool is blessed with singers, musicians and highly-skilled stage hands -- this skill level allows for greater variety in the types of plays which can be mounted.

Finally, an adventurous cadre of writers and creative talent, willing to take risks, are devising and producing local scripts and plays, instilling a further level of innovation into the local theatre experience.

That innovation will be evident in the upcoming production of A Midsummer's Night Dream. As we move towards that event, we'll next take a look at the level of community participation and the role that the NACC facility plays in creating a strong community theatre.

(Bernie Hughes is a Yellowknifer with a more-than-passing interest in the arts scene. This is part 1 of a 3-part series.)