TAMRMS#: B06
14.1
title
Restoration of the Children's Theatre Program to Youth Actors
Notice given by: Councillor Hughes
label
PROPOSED MOTION(S):
recommendation
That the Children's Theatre Program is restored back to be exclusively open for actors who are 19 years of age or younger and that any adult actors are to be considered for separate Community Theatre performances.
body
ADMINISTRATION'S UNDERSTANDING OF THE INTENT OF THE MOTION
Administration understands that the intent of this motion is to establish a change in service level for the Children's Theatre program as a youth-exclusive offering, limiting participation to those aged 19 and under, while directing adult performers to separate performance opportunities.
ADMINISTRATION'S RECOMMENDATION
That Council consider maintaining the current service level and program approach, which prioritizes youth participation while also providing opportunities for broader community involvement through a combination of youth-only, all-ages, and adult focused programming, in alignment with demonstrated participation trends and service levels.
PURPOSE OF REPORT
The purpose of this report is to present a motion for which Councillor Hughes gave notice on June 22, 2026.
ALIGNMENT TO COUNCIL DIRECTION OR MANDATORY STATUTORY PROVISION
N/A
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
The City's Performing Arts program, offered through the Community Services Cultural Branch, includes a component historically known as St. Albert Children's Theatre, which was originally established in the early 1980s to provide theatre opportunities for children and youth. While youth participation has always been foundational, the program has included elements of intergenerational participation since its early years.
Prior to the establishment of a formal alumni participant base, productions occasionally included adults in key roles to meet casting needs and support the overall quality of performances. This practice dates to the program's ear...
Click here for full text