About Us

The Essential Collective Theatre Company (formerly The Essential Players) was formed in 1998 by Jason Cadieux and Stephanie Jones. The company collaborated with a variety of theatre makers, producing on a project to project basis. In 2006 the company officially incorporated as a not-for-profit and to date has produced over 10 productions in St. Catharines. ECT productions have also toured to Toronto, Montreal and as far as London, England.

Our Mandate

Our mandate is to create original works and produce contemporary Canadian plays. At the heart of the organization is the desire increase the popularity of new Canadian playwrights and foster Niagara voices.

"In my present the theatre department at Concordia University and in my ongoing career as director and dramaturge, I can only say this; there is a heart of gold in the work of these two artists and any opportunity to support their work is a good one. I jump at every opportunity to work in their company. They have a lot to give"
                                                Sarah Stanley, Director, Dramaturge & Professor at Concordia University

Our Goals

* Maintain a spirit of discovery and experimentation so that process
   is always as important as the product.

* Create compelling theatrical experiences by telling stories that
   are both relevant and accessible to Niagara's growing theatre
   audience.

* 'Export ' our shows outside the Niagara region, raising the profile of our theatre arts community.

* 'Import' theatre professionals from outside Niagara, infusing our creative environment with fresh energy and
   perspective.

* Create opportunities for local theatre artists to practice their craft in a professional environment

ECT produces 1 to 2 productions per year, as well as hosting the "Wine & Reading Series", a new play development program that features works by local theatre artists and wine tasting from local vintners. Submissions are being accepted now for the 2010 Reading Series!