Calgary Theatre Troupe Revives Magic at Winnipeg Fringe Festival

Four theatre graduates from Calgary have returned to Winnipeg, bringing their unique brand of improvisational storytelling to the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival. The group, known as Monster Theatre, originally made its debut at the festival in July 2000, travelling in an ogre-green Volkswagen Bus. This year marks a significant milestone as they celebrate 25 years since that first performance.

Ryan Gladstone, one of the founding members, recalls the modest beginnings. “There was no Cube,” he said, referring to the now-iconic stage structure that has become a hallmark of the festival. Instead, they performed on a circular stage in a field, dressed as goblins and mythical creatures, while entertaining small but enthusiastic audiences. Despite earning a meager income through a “pass the hat” system, the troupe found camaraderie and sustenance in street vendor food and affordable drinks from local pubs.

After their initial performances, the troupe left Winnipeg feeling accomplished yet disappointed by the lack of coverage in local media. Their spirits lifted when they spotted a photo of Charlotte Mitchell featured on the front page of a newspaper, delighting children with her antics. This moment provided the validation they needed, propelling them onward in their journey.

Monster Theatre has returned to the Winnipeg Fringe with a lineup of four productions, including a comedic hockey-themed show and a tale of duelling productions that recalls their earlier days. Alongside Gladstone, fellow performers include Tara Travis and Jeff Gladstone, who bring their distinctive flair to the festival stage.

The company has evolved significantly since its inception. Initially inspired by their teacher, Keith Johnstone, who emphasized the distinction between monsters and demons in storytelling, Monster Theatre has carved a niche for itself. They focus on alternate mythologies and revisionist musicals, exploring deeper narratives that challenge conventional themes.

Over the years, Monster Theatre has gained recognition for its innovative productions. For instance, their previous offerings in Winnipeg included “Juliet: A Revenge Comedy,” which was well-received. Their ongoing commitment to topical content has kept audiences engaged, as evidenced by their adaptation of a hockey-themed performance that changes every four years to reflect current events.

As they continue to perform, Gladstone, now 48, also teaches at the Vancouver Film School and credits the Winnipeg Fringe for fostering creativity among theatre companies. “It’s a place where you can test new ideas and find your audience,” he stated. The festival has become a launching pad for talent, pushing creators to elevate their work with each return visit.

In addition to Monster Theatre, other local groups are also showcasing their talents at the festival. Brighter Dark Theatre, another ensemble formed through the Manitoba Theatre for Young People, will present a new production at MTYP’s main stage. This group, known for its previous comedy, “Cloning Comedy,” explores complex themes in their latest work, which navigates relationships through a comedic lens.

Overall, the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival serves as a vibrant platform for emerging and established theatre artists alike. This year, it not only celebrates the legacy of groups like Monster Theatre but also highlights the rich tapestry of talent that thrives in the local arts scene. As the festival unfolds, audiences can anticipate unforgettable performances that bring stories to life in captivating ways.

The spirit of creativity continues to flourish, with performers drawing inspiration from their experiences and the community that supports them. The festival remains a testament to the enduring power of theatre to entertain, provoke thought, and foster connections among diverse audiences.